Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral known for its strong and heat-resistant fibres. In the past, it has been widely used in construction and manufacturing for its durability and fire-resistant properties. However, asbestos exposure can pose extremely serious health risks, particularly when its fibres are inhaled or ingested.
Asbestos fibres can lead to a variety of health issues. These health risks make it crucial for individuals working with or around asbestos to take all proper precautions to minimise exposure and protect their respiratory health.
Strict asbestos regulations have been introduced in many countries. The use of it has been phased out in favour of safer, alternative materials. Understanding the properties and health risks associated with asbestos is important for anyone working in construction, manufacturing, or any industry where asbestos may be present.
When fibres are inhaled, they can become lodged in the lungs. This can lead to possible life threatening diseases such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and malignant mesothelioma.
During any kind of renovation or demolition of buildings that contain asbestos, the fibres can become airborne. Once airborne, these microscopic fibres can pose a significant health hazard to workers and nearby residents.
It’s crucial for anyone working with or near asbestos-containing materials to take necessary precautions. This will help to minimise the risk of exposure, including wearing appropriate protective gear and following safe handling procedures.
Any level of asbestos exposure can result in a range of symptoms. What makes asbestos exposure particularly insidious is the delayed onset of these symptoms, which can take anywhere from 10 to 50 years to develop. This prolonged timeline makes it challenging to pinpoint the exact source of exposure. Individuals may not recall being in contact with asbestos decades prior. Given the long latency period and difficulty in identifying exposure sources, it is crucial for individuals who suspect asbestos exposure to seek medical attention if they begin experiencing these symptoms.
Short-term symptoms of asbestos exposure include shortness of breath, persistent cough, fatigue, chest pain, swollen fingertips and difficulty swallowing.
However, there are many long-term asbestos-related diseases like asbestosis (a chronic lung condition), lung cancer and mesothelioma (a rare cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart). Trapped fibres in the lungs can also cause inflammation and scarring over time, leading to more of these serious health conditions.
Asbestos poisoning is a serious health concern that can lead to severe conditions again, such as increased risk of lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. The importance of understanding the common sources of asbestos exposure cannot be overstated, as it allows individuals to take necessary precautions to minimise their risk. Additionally, it is essential for individuals who work in industries where asbestos exposure is a concern to undergo regular health screenings.
People can be exposed to asbestos in a variety of ways, both in the workplace and in their own homes. In industries such as construction, shipbuilding, and mining, occupational exposure can be common. Additionally, those working in older buildings may come into contact with asbestos during renovations or demolition.
Asbestos was once commonly used in differing building materials including insulation, flooring, tiling, and roofing materials, meaning that many older homes may still contain asbestos. As these materials age or are disturbed under renovation you can increase the risk of asbestos exposure for residents.
Furthermore, environmental asbestos exposure can occur through natural deposits or the release of asbestos fibres into the air and water from industrial processes.
The most easily inhaled types of asbestos are amphibole fibres. It is most common when asbestos material is disturbed, because of the higher levels of exposure. Activities such as renovation, demolition, and maintenance of old buildings can put you at risk.
The most common type associated with swallowing is chrysotile asbestos, which some companies argue is safe due to its dissolvability in the body. However, all forms of asbestos, including chrysotile, are dangerous when ingested, and no level of exposure is safe. If you are aware of areas that could be present with asbestos, then refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking nearby. All forms of asbestos, including chrysotile, should be treated with utmost caution to ensure personal safety and well-being.
Any amount of asbestos exposure poses serious health risks and can lead to the development of various diseases.
If you have been exposed to asbestos and are experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms, it is imperative to seek medical attention to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment. Don’t underestimate the potential health risks associated with asbestos exposure – early intervention can make all the difference.
If you suspect your property contains asbestos material then you must get the property surveyed as soon as possible. Working with skilled asbestos surveyors is vital. As experts, we hold all the required knowledge to perform comprehensive surveys, delivering precise and reliable findings.
Asbestos surveys are not merely a legal requirement but an obligatory step in ensuring the safety and well-being of property occupants and visitors. They are essential for property owners to ensure a building is fit for purpose. Property owners or managers should prioritise regular inspections to identify, manage, and, if necessary, remove asbestos-containing materials. Contributing to a healthier and safer living environment.
PVES offers asbestos surveys, audits and training, to ensure the safety for all occupants and visitors. Please contact our team on 0845 226 5061 for more information on how we can help you.