Asbestos was a popular building material in the UK until the 1980s, and it can still be found in many homes and commercial buildings today. If undisturbed, asbestos is not dangerous. However, if asbestos-containing materials are disturbed or damaged, the fibers can release into the air and become hazardous to health.

Exposure to asbestos fibers can cause fatal diseases such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that occurs in the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen, and it is caused primarily by inhaling asbestos fibers. Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos, making it a silent killer.

Asbestos fibers that remain airborne for extended periods might cause respiratory problems, such as difficulty in breathing, coughing, wheezing, chest pain, and shortness of breath. Asbestosis is a chronic lung condition that can result from prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers. Asbestosis can cause lung scarring, making it challenging to breathe and reducing oxygen supply to vital organs.

It is essential to have an asbestos survey done in your building to identify whether there is any presence of asbestos-containing materials. A qualified asbestos surveyor will identify any asbestos materials present, determine their condition, and advise on suitable management options. This will help ensure that your building is run safely and without the risks related to asbestos exposure.