Construction Site Asbestos Awareness

According to IOSH, “Uncertainty and ignorance” risks more asbestos deaths. Nearly one in four UK construction workers believe they may have been exposed to asbestos fibres, placing them at higher risk of contracting terminal cancers later in life.  Key findings of a recent report for the “No Time to Lose” campaign (relating to work-related cancer) include:

• 59% have been informed of the asbestos risks and have had this reinforced regularly with training; 15 % have never been informed
• 23% say they have been exposed to asbestos; with only 27% saying they haven’t been exposed
• 32% have never checked the asbestos register before starting work on a new site, with 15% these not knowing about the register
• 18% said that if they found asbestos they would either be unsure or have no idea what to do

While the survey was conducted among construction workers, the risks of asbestos exposure are present in many workplaces.

Speaking on behalf of IOSH, Craig Foyle (IOSH President), said the survey also demonstrates that not enough is being done to protect workers.

Asbestos is banned in the UK and other countries for a good reason: it is dangerous. It is staggering to see how many people die from exposure to asbestos every year. That is well over 100,000 families suffering the devastation of a lost loved one.

IOSH (The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health) is the Chartered body for health and safety professionals. With over 46,000 members in 120 countries, we’re the world’s largest professional health and safety organisation.

We offer CDM Consultancy Services, Asbestos Management Services, Fire Safety Services, and additional support tailored for businesses operating within the construction sector.