Asbestos is regarded as the infamous heat-resistant material. Why was it once so widely used, and why did it eventually get banned? The health risks tied to asbestos are well-known, but there’s more to the tale.
In this article, we dive into the history of asbestos to understand why this material went from being a construction staple to a severe health hazard.
The Rise and Fall of Asbestos
Back in the day, asbestos used to be everywhere—in buildings, homes, and even some products you wouldn’t expect. Why? Because it was tough, resistant to heat, and didn’t catch fire easily. It seemed like the perfect material, right? That was until people started getting sick.
It turned out that inhaling asbestos fibres can cause severe health hazards. The tiny, sharp fibres can lodge themselves into the lungs, causing diseases like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
These diseases don’t show up right away. They can take years—sometimes even decades—to develop. By the time people realised what was happening, it was too late for many.
The backlash was inevitable. Health experts sounded the alarm, governments took action, and by the late 20th century, asbestos was banned in many countries.
But just because it’s forbidden doesn’t mean it’s gone. Old buildings and products still contain asbestos, and that’s where the danger lies.
So, if you’re thinking about taking an Asbestos Awareness Training course, you’re on the right track. Knowing how to spot asbestos and handle it safely can literally save lives.
Where You Might Still Come Across Asbestos
Asbestos isn’t just a relic of the past. It’s still around, lurking in places you might not expect. This is why workers who might come into contact are provided an Asbestos Awareness Training course to comply with health and safety legislation.
Let’s break down where you may come across asbestos.
1. Old Buildings
Asbestos, commonly used as a heat-resistant material, is usually found in older buildings, particularly those constructed before the 1980s. It was used in all sorts of construction materials—roofing shingles, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, insulation, and even some types of cement.
If you’re working on a renovation or demolition project, be on high alert. The dust that comes from breaking or disturbing asbestos-containing materials is where the real danger lies.
2. Pipes and Boilers
Back in the day, asbestos was the go-to material for insulating pipes, boilers, and even ducts. It could be wrapped around pipes or mixed into the plaster on walls and ceilings. This is especially common in industrial settings, but you can also find it in older homes. If these materials start to break down or get damaged, the asbestos fibres can become airborne and pose a risk.
3. Automotive Parts
Surprise, surprise! Asbestos wasn’t just used in buildings. It was also common in the automotive industry. Brake pads, clutches, and even some gaskets contained asbestos because of its heat-resistant properties.
Although it’s less common now, older vehicles might still have parts containing asbestos. So, if you’re working on a classic car, it’s worth being cautious.
4. Consumer Products
Yes, believe it or not, asbestos was even in some consumer products. Some older appliances, hair dryers, and even some brands of talcum powder had asbestos in them. While the risks from these products might be lower compared to construction materials, it’s still a good idea to be aware, especially if you come across older items.
5. Soil Contamination
Asbestos is more common in places where asbestos is mined or processed. Construction projects or landscaping in these areas can disturb the soil and release asbestos fibres into the air, posing a risk to those nearby.
How Businesses Can Minimise Liability
The last thing any business owner wants is to be caught in a lawsuit over asbestos exposure. Now that you know where asbestos might still be hanging around, let’s talk about what you can do to minimise liability.
1. Conduct Regular Inspections
First things first—know your building. If you’re in charge of an office, a factory, or any kind of workplace, make sure regular inspections are part of your routine. Bring in professionals who know what to look for. They can identify areas where asbestos might be present and advise you on the best course of action.
2. Properly Train Employees
Your team needs to know the risks and how to handle situations where asbestos might be involved. Offering office Health and Safety training can keep everyone informed and safe. Plus, it shows that your business takes health and safety seriously, which can go a long way in minimising liability.
3. Develop a Management Plan
If asbestos is found in your building, don’t panic. But don’t ignore it either. Develop a clear management plan that outlines how to deal with it. This could involve sealing off the area, encapsulating the asbestos, or, in some cases, having it professionally removed. Whatever the plan, make sure it’s well-documented and communicated to everyone involved.
4. Use Qualified Professionals
When dealing with asbestos, don’t cut corners. Always use qualified professionals for inspections, removals, or repairs. Not only is this the safest option, but it also reduces your liability. If something goes wrong, having a professional handle the situation can protect you from legal repercussions.
5. Keep Detailed Records
Documentation is key. Keep detailed records of inspections, training sessions, and any asbestos-related work that’s been done. This not only helps in keeping track of everything but can also serve as evidence that your business has taken the necessary steps to ensure safety.
6. Inform and Update Staff
Make sure your staff is always in the loop. If there’s an area where asbestos has been found or if there are ongoing removal efforts, inform your team. Keeping everyone updated reduces the risk of accidental exposure and reinforces that you’re prioritising their safety.
7. Be Proactive, Not Reactive
The best way to minimise liability is to be proactive. Don’t wait for an issue to arise before taking action. Consistently updating your health and safety policies, conducting risk assessments and keeping current with the latest regulations can significantly assist in maintaining your business’s good standing.
8. Seek Legal Advice
It’s never a bad idea to consult with legal professionals, especially when it comes to something as serious as asbestos. They can help you comprehend your responsibilities, aid in developing management plans, and provide guidance on the most effective ways to safeguard your business from liability.
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