16-05-2008
Asbestos warning issued by HSE
News by Adfero for Simply Business - independent providers of public liability insurance, business finance, landlord insurance, buy-to-let mortgages & commercial mortgages.
Britain's Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued a new warning in relation to the dangers of asbestos.
The organisation has warned that when engaging in refurbishment work, those within the building sector should ensure they conduct surveys and checks in order to ensure that individuals including employees - such as plumbers, builders and electricians - are protected from the dangers of asbestos.
"If you inhale asbestos fibres … they can become lodged in the tissue of your chest and your body's natural defences may not be able to easily break them down," said the HSE.
"This can lead to lung diseases (mainly cancers), particularly if you are repeatedly exposed to fibres over a number of years."
Indeed, the substance has been linked with a number of conditions, including asbestosis and mesothelioma.
The HSE issued its warning following the prosecution of building surveyor after he was found to have contravened The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006.