Posted on September 23, 2013
Today, the British Lung Foundation (BLF) launched ‘Take 5 and Stay Alive,’ a major campaign designed to raise awareness about the dangers of asbestos amongst tradespeople. Every week on average 20 tradesmen die in the UK from exposure to asbestos making it the single greatest cause of work-related deaths.
The 2013 BLF’s Take 5 and Stay Alive campaign aims to ensure tradespeople have the knowledge to act safely and responsibly, ensuring they can identify asbestos and determine what type it is, and assess whether they have the training and equipment to deal with it safely. BLF says, “Check it, before you wreck it. As with any DIY project, it pays to protect yourself. So always wear overalls, eye protection and a facemask – especially if your job is likely to produce dust. However, asbestos fibres are small enough to penetrate most masks. So never assume you’re safe. Then there’s the dust that settles on your clothing. This is a serious health risk to everyone you come into contact with. So before you crack on, stop and think about where you might come across asbestos in your home. It could save your life.”
Before you might do any Do It Yourself (DIY) work around the house, get the answers to these 5 crucial questions about asbestos from the BLF.
“1) Do you suspect there’s asbestos on site? This hazardous material was regularly used in buildings from the 1950s until the late 1990s, especially for fireproofing and insulation. If disturbed, it can be a killer. More>
2) Can you be sure its asbestos? A popular building material since the 1950s, asbestos was used in all sorts of unexpected places until the late 1990s. Find out more so you can crack on with confidence. More>3) Whats the level of risk and how do you handle it safely? Even a small amount of asbestos dust can be lethal. So don’t start work if you’re in any doubt. Take a moment to check out the asbestos gallery. More>
4) Have you had the right type of training? If possible, leave it alone. Asbestos is harmless if left undisturbed. But if you have to remove it, it’s essential you seek help from a professional firm. More >
5) Are you taking precautions to minimise the risks? We’ve put together the essential downloadable guide covering how to recognise asbestos, what to do if you find it in your home and the health risks. More >“
ADAO applauds the BLF for their ongoing efforts and commitment to asbestos education and advocacy. View and share their new “Take Five Stay Alive” video today.
Together, change is possible.
Linda Reinstein