Health & Safety Risk Management System

H02 - Asbestos

Every year there are thousands of asbestos related deaths. Asbestos fibres accumulate in the lungs therefore several diseases can occur, among these are two main types of cancer:

• mesothelioma (considered to be almost exclusively related to asbestos exposure)
• lung cancer (a malignant tumour of the bronchi).

The 10 occupations found to have the highest risk of mesothelioma for males were:

• Metal plate workers
• Vehicle body builders
• Plumbers and Gas fitters
• Carpenters
• Electricians
• Sheet metal workers
• Electrical plant operators
• Production fitters
• Construction workers, and
• Electrical engineers.

The Asbestos Procedure is an invaluable document aimed at responsible managers which outlines all aspects of dealing with the three main types of asbestos found in the workplace. The procedure assists employers to comply with The Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations (introduced from May 2004) which place a duty on those responsible for commercial premises to manage the asbestos contained in them.