Understanding the Risks, Regulations, and Best Practices to follow in construction
Before the 1980s, asbestos was the best thing since sliced bread. It is excellent for its insulating and heat-resistant properties. However, much like cigarettes and tobacco, we later discovered it is seriously hazardous to health. People who had worked or lived in properties with asbestos developed diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis. All are deadly. In this guide, we give you the lowdown on asbestos.
We will cover the following:
- What is Asbestos, and Why is it so dangerous
- Risks of asbestos exposure
- Regulations surrounding the use of asbestos
- Best practices for handling asbestos safely
- What you should do if you have been exposed to asbestos
What is Asbestos, and Why is it so dangerous?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral. It is mainly found in California, and if left undisturbed in rocks and soil, it is safe. Furthermore, the mineral is fibrous, and the tiny fibres can be released into the air. If humans or many animals breathe them in, it causes significant problems, primarily with the lungs. As a result of us now understanding the dangers of asbestos, most countries have regulated its use. However, many buildings were built before the 1980s when we discovered the risks.
What Are the Health Risks if Exposed?
Asbestos exposure can lead to several illnesses, with many proving fatal. Asbestos can lead to various cancers, including ovarian and colon cancer. As has been noted, it is most commonly associated with lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. We didn’t know about the dangers of asbestos earlier because these diseases can take from ten to even seventy years to manifest. Large numbers of those working in the construction industry exposed to asbestos developing these illnesses were the key to understanding its deadly dangers.
What Are the Regulations Governing Asbestos in Construction?
The UK introduced asbestos regulations in 1987, and further stipulations came into play in The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. These regulations mean employers must identify asbestos materials in their buildings and workplaces. By law, employers must take action to reduce the risks associated with any asbestos-containing materials. Regular inspections must occur, with any necessary work undertaken only by specially licensed and asbestos-trained contractors.
What Are the Best Practices for Handling Asbestos Safely?
You cannot, by law, ask an ordinary employee to deal with asbestos. You must contact a licensed contractor who understands and is specifically trained in removing and disposing of asbestos. Licensed contractors follow best practices and will use the correct tools, protective equipment, and breathing apparatus so that they and others are not harmed, and asbestos is not released into the environment.
What Should You Do if You Think You Have Been Exposed to Asbestos?
If you may have come into contact with asbestos, you should seek medical advice immediately. The sooner you seek medical advice, the better able you will be to reduce your risk of a disease associated with this deadly substance. Do not attempt to remove asbestos if an employer has asked you to. If you believe you have been exposed to asbestos in the workplace, you should obtain legal advice to help you with a claim against an employer.
Conclusion:
Asbestos is a significant risk to those working in the construction industry, particularly in buildings and homes built before the 1980s. It’s imperative that only those who are specially trained and licensed deal with the removal of asbestos using best practices. Laws are in place to safeguard construction workers, and anyone in this field should fully understand that asbestos causes fatalities and painful illnesses. Do not be tempted to deal with this substance; if you have, seek medical and legal advice.
Getting a Green CSCS Labourer Card is important if you want to work in UK construction. This card shows you’re skilled and understand safety rules. To get this card, you need to pass a test. With the help of Get Licensed’s CSCS Green Card course, passing this test becomes easier. Think of it as a golden ticket to a safer and brighter career in construction.
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