12-02-2008
Possible locations of asbestos uncovered by HSE
News by Adfero for Simply Business - independent providers of public liability insurance, business finance, landlord insurance, buy-to-let mortgages & commercial mortgages.
The different locations within a property where asbestos might be found have been highlighted by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
In addition to the presence of asbestos in some cement products, the HSE warns that the substance can also be found elsewhere, such as in textured coatings, ceiling or floor cavities, lagging and sprayed coatings - all of which may impact upon the work conducted by tradesmen such as builders and plumbers.
Indeed, data released by the organisation shows that every year, a total of three plumbers and six electricians die as a consequence of asbestos.
"If you inhale asbestos fibres (which are long and thin) 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."
