Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral once celebrated for its heat, resistance, strength, and affordability. It was widely used in construction, insulation, automotive parts, and manufacturing throughout the 20th century. However, asbestos fibers are highly dangerous when inhaled, as they can cause severe, long-term health problems. Despite being banned or heavily restricted in many countries, asbestos still lingers in older buildings, workplaces and equipment. Workers involved in maintenance, renovation, demolition, or manufacturing are particularly at risk.
One of the deadliest diseases linked to asbestos exposure is mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. Because mesothelioma can take decades to appear after initial exposure, many workers remain unaware of the danger until it is too late. Every year on 26th September, we observe Mesothelioma Awareness Day to honor those affected, highlight the dangers of asbestos, and strengthen calls for safer workplaces.
Hazards of Asbestos
When asbestos -containing materials (ACMs) are distributed, tiny fibers are released into the air. These fibers are invisible to the naked eye and can remain airborne for long periods. Once inhaled or ingested, they embed into the lungs and other organs, causing irreversible damage over time.
The main health hazards include:
- Mesothelioma- A deadly cancer of the lung or abdominal lining, strongly linked to asbestos exposure.
- Asbestosis- A chronic lung disease that scars lung tissue, leading to breathlessness, fatigue, and a higher risk of lung infections.
- Lung Cancer- Long-term asbestos exposure significantly increases the risk, particularly in smokers.
- Pleural Disorders – Thickening, scarring, or fluid buildup around the lungs, causing chest pain and breathing difficulties.
- Secondary exposure risks- Workers can unintentionally carry asbestos fibers home on clothing, exposing families.
Workplace-specific hazards include:
- Disturbance during building work- Renovations, demolition, drilling, or sanding ACMs can release fibres.
- Improper waste handling – Failure to seal and label asbestos waste can spread fibres across sites.
- Maintenance activities- Electricians, plumbers or carpenters may unknowingly disturb hidden ACMs while fixing pipes, wiring, or ceilings.
- Aging Infrastructure- Old insulation, tiles and roofing may naturally degrade over time, releasing fibres.
- Confined spaces- Work in basements, plant rooms, or crawl spaces increases fibre concentration and limits ventilation.
- Accidental damage – Breaking asbestos panels or disturbing insulation during routine work can trigger exposure.
- Improper PPE or RPE use – Using damaged, unsuitable, or poorly fitted protective gear exposes workers to fibres.
Legal Regulations on Asbestos:
- Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012): This legislation outlines the responsibilities of employers, building owners, and contractors. It requires identifying and managing asbestos risks, preventing exposure, and ensuring safe removal.
- Duty to manage: Employers and property managers are legally obligated to assess whether asbestos is present and take steps to minimise risk.
- Training Requirements: Anyone likely to encounter asbestos, such as construction or maintenance workers, must receive proper asbestos awareness training.
- Licensing: High-risk asbestos work must only be carried out by licensed contractors following strict safety procedures.
- Health Surveillance: Workers exposed to asbestos must undergo regular medical checks to monitor long-term health.
These regulations exist not just as legal obligations but as a commitment to protecting workers and communities from preventable harm.
Control Measures for Asbestos
Preventing exposure is the most effective way to protect workers. Employers must adopt strict control measures, including:
- Identify and assess risks: Carry out asbestos surveys before work begins in older buildings.
- Label and Record: Clearly mark asbestos- containing materials and maintain updated registers.
- Use Licensed professionals: Ensure only trained and licensed contractors handle asbestos removal or high-risk work.
- Contain and control dust: Use wet methods, local exhaust ventilation, and sealed enclosures to prevent fibres becoming airborne.
- Provide PPE and RPE: Supply workers with suitable protective clothing and respiratory protective equipment.
- Implement safe work practices; Avoid drilling, sanding, or cutting asbestos- containing materials where possible.
- Waste disposal: Follow approved procedures for sealing, labelling, and disposing asbestos waste safely.
- Training and awareness: Educate workers on recognizing asbestos risks and emergency procedures.
- Emergency response plans: Have clear procedures in case asbestos fibres are accidentally released.
Asbestos may belong to the past in terms of manufacturing, but its dangers are still present today. Mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases continue to affect thousands of people, often long after exposure.
On Mesothelioma Awareness Day, 26th September, we are reminded of the urgent need to raise awareness, strengthen workplace safety, and protect workers and families from this hidden hazard. Employers, workers, and building managers all share responsibility in managing asbestos risks. With vigilance, training, and compliance, we can prevent exposure and ensure safer, healthier workplaces for generations to come.
