Despite being banned in the UK 25 years ago, asbestos is still responsible for approximately 5,000 deaths in Great Britain each year.

Asbestos-related diseases typically take decades for symptoms to occur following exposure. As Global Asbestos Awareness Week approaches, we are reminding people where they might encounter asbestos and what action to take to prevent exposure. 

Why it matters

Asbestos could be present in any building that was built or refurbished before 2000 and can be hidden within different materials, for example:  

• lagging on plant and pipework
• insulation products such as fireproof panels
• asbestos cement roofing material
• sprayed coatings on structural steel work to insulate against fire and noise
  
  

These materials become dangerous when damaged or disturbed. For example, during maintenance, remediation or renovation work.

That's why HSE is running 2 crucial campaigns to raise awareness of the risks, providing free advice, downloadable resources and videos to help prevent exposure to asbestos fibres.