Asbestos remains a significant health hazard in the UK, especially for those in the finishes and interiors sector who frequently work in older buildings where asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are still present. Despite increased awareness and regulation, several myths about asbestos persist. Here, the UKATA debunk the top ten myths to help keep tradespeople safe.

1. Asbestos was banned long ago, so there’s no risk anymore

While the use of asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999, an estimated 1.5 million buildings still contain asbestos, and any structure built before the year 2000 may potentially house this hazardous material. This includes properties constructed as recently as the 1990s. Finishes and interiors professionals may encounter asbestos in walls, ceilings, pipework insulation, and floor tiles during renovations.

2. Only people in construction or demolition are at risk of asbestos exposure

Although high-risk jobs like construction and demolition are commonly associated with asbestos, those in the finishes and interior sectors are also at risk. ACMs can be found in decorative coatings, textured ceilings, pipe insulation, and certain adhesives – common materials for interior work. Drilling, sanding, or disturbing these materials can release harmful asbestos fibres. Recent research shows a rise in asbestos-related diseases among people with no direct exposure, often due to second hand exposure from asbestos fibres unknowingly brought home on clothing or equipment. These fibres can be inhaled by family members, including children, posing serious health risks.

3. Asbestos is only dangerous if you handle it directly

Asbestos fibres are dangerous when airborne, not just when handled. Even simple activities, such as moving an item covered in asbestos dust, can release fibres into the air. This airborne asbestos can then be inhaled by anyone in the vicinity, posing serious health risks over time.

4. Asbestos can be easily identified by appearance

Many people believe they can spot asbestos by its texture or colour, but this isn’t true. Asbestos was added to over 4,000 products in various forms and colours, and it is often indistinguishable from asbestos-free materials. The only way to identify asbestos is for a sample to be taken by a competent person and analysed by a UKAS Laboratory.

5. Some asbestos products are safe

There are no “safe” asbestos products in the UK, as all forms of asbestos use are now banned. If a product or material contains asbestos, it is considered hazardous. While some countries still permit the controlled use of asbestos, the UK fully prohibits its import, sale, and use.

6. A little exposure to asbestos won’t hurt you

Asbestos exposure is cumulative; every exposure adds to your lifetime risk of developing serious diseases, such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis. Even brief or low-level exposure can contribute to long-term health risks. That’s why even minor disturbances in asbestos-containing materials should be treated seriously.

7. Domestic properties don’t contain asbestos

While commercial and industrial buildings are often associated with asbestos, many domestic properties also contain ACMs, particularly if they were built or renovated before the 1999 ban. Asbestos can be found in household materials, including textured coatings, insulation, and even certain vinyl floor tiles. For finishes and interiors professionals working in homes, it’s crucial to stay alert to potential ACMs.

8. Only white asbestos (chrysotile) was widely used in the UK, and it’s not harmful

Although white asbestos (chrysotile) was the most commonly used form, it is still hazardous. Chrysotile asbestos is associated with lung disease, including cancers, just like blue (crocidolite) and brown (amosite) asbestos. All forms of asbestos are classified as carcinogenic, meaning they can cause cancer.

9. Asbestos-related diseases develop quickly

Asbestos-related diseases typically have long latency periods and can take 15 to 60 years to develop after exposure. This delay often makes it difficult to link health issues directly to asbestos exposure. By the time symptoms appear, the disease is often at an advanced stage, which is why prevention is so critical. Each year in the UK, asbestos-related diseases continue to claim more than 5,000 lives. In 2022 alone, there were 2,257 deaths attributed to mesothelioma, with a similar number of lung cancer cases linked to past asbestos exposure. Additionally, there were 493 deaths recorded in 2022 where asbestosis was mentioned on the death certificate, excluding those that also noted mesothelioma.

10. Asbestos training is unnecessary for interior and finishes work

Asbestos awareness training as a minimum is a legal requirement for anyone who may encounter ACMs in their work. For those in the finishes and interiors sector, this training can be crucial as it teaches how to identify potential asbestos risks, what to do when asbestos is suspected, and the procedures to follow to minimise exposure. Not only does training improve safety, but it also ensures compliance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, which applies to all trades.

In summary

The finishes and interiors sector faces unique asbestos risks due to the nature of the work and the presence of ACMs in materials that are frequently handled, disturbed, or removed. Understanding the facts about asbestos and dispelling these common myths can make a significant difference in protecting health and ensuring safety on the job.

For more information or to book asbestos training, visit the UKATA website at www.ukata.org.uk or call 01246 824437.