Asbestos Still Found in Buildings

Article Added February 24th, 2006 - Print This Story - Bookmark This Story

For those who think that the buildings that they work in are asbestos free, think again. Millions may still be working in environments that contain asbestos, even though the material is banned.

Many employers are unaware that they are required to find out if the work environment of their employees contains asbestos, and the projected number of workplaces that contain asbestos at present is more than 1.5 million. In the UK alone, more than 4,000 people die of asbestos related diseases each year. Offices and factories are now circulating pamphlets making employees aware of the danger. No matter what some employers may say, all forms of asbestos are potentially dangerous.

Asbestos can often be found in buildings from before the early 1970’s, since research had not conclusively linked the material to lung diseases. It is most likely found in insulation and mechanical parts of the buildings. Lung cancer and emphysema can take years to develop as a result of asbestos exposure, making it hard to realize the dangers of the material at the time of exposure. Projected deaths will climbed to more than 10,000 per year in the next decade.

Article Added February 24th, 2006 - Print This Story - Bookmark This Story