The more complex the problem - the more vital it is to build your solution on reliable analysis.
Why do we need asbestos removal?
Undisturbed asbestos usually poses no problems however asbestos fibres and dust are potentially extremely hazardous if inhaled. If you carry out any type of maintenance, repair or refurbishment work within buildings built before the year 2000 you are likely to be exposing you and / or your work force, contractors and visitors to asbestos. Exposure to only small quantities of asbestos can build up in the lungs and could lead to the development of asbestos-related diseases later in life. Not only is exposure life threatening you could face prosecution by the HSE and heavy fines for each offence.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a cancer which affects the lining of the lungs (pleura) and the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum). It causes severe breathing difficulty and is almost exclusively related to asbestos exposure. Generally the latency period for mesothelioma is 25-30 years but could be longer, however by the time it is diagnosed it is almost always fatal. www.mesothelioma.uk.com
Latest statistics provided from HSE indicate the deaths form Mesothelioma will peak between 2015-2020:
- The number of mesothelioma deaths increased to 2,535 in 2012 from 2,291 in 2011. This was largely due to an increase in male deaths aged 65 years or more (Mesothelioma register).
- In 2012 there were 2,126 male deaths and 409 female deaths.
- The number of new cases of mesothelioma assessed for Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit has increased from 1,985 in 2011 to 2,125 new cases in 2012 (IIDB).
Asbestos-related lung cancer
Asbestos-related lung cancer has the same effect as smoking related lung cancer whereby treatment could only be effective if identified sufficiently early in order to surgically remove tumours. If you are a smoker and work within the asbestos industry you will increase your risk of developing lung cancer by at least 50%.
Latest statistics provided from HSE indicate:
- Research suggests there are probably about as many asbestos-related lung cancer deaths each year as there are mesothelioma deaths.
- This implies there are currently around 2,000 deaths each year in Great Britain due to asbestos-related lung cancer.
- The ratio of lung cancers to mesotheliomas is expected to fall over time suggesting less than one asbestos related lung cancer per mesothelioma in the future.
Asbestosis
Asbestosis is a serious scarring condition that hardens the lung tissue causing it to lose its elasticity and impairing lung function. It occurs after heavy exposure to asbestos over many years condition can cause progressive shortness of breath and is incurable. Early detection could help to halt any further deterioration. Latest statistics provided from HSE indicate:
- In 2011 there were 429 deaths where asbestosis is likely to have contributed as a cause compared with 109 in 1978. (Asbestosis register).
- There were 178 deaths in 2011 where asbestosis was specifically recorded as the underlying cause of death. (Asbestosis register).
- Numbers of newly assessed cases for Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit have increased more rapidly than asbestosis deaths in recent years.
- The number of newly assessed cases for 2012 was 980 (IIDB).
There are other conditions that whilst less severe are nonetheless extremely uncomfortable including Pleural thickening, Plura Plaques and Warts.