Asbestos

*images provided by our sister company Elite Waterproofing.

Health Issues

1. Asbestosis – Chronic lung disease causing scarring of lung tissue, leading to breathing difficulties.
2. Mesothelioma – A rare, aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart.
3. Lung Cancer – Increased risk, especially in smokers, due to prolonged asbestos fiber inhalation.
4. Pleural Thickening – Thickening of lung lining, reducing lung capacity and causing chest pain.
5. Pleural Effusion – Fluid buildup around the lungs, leading to shortness of breath and discomfort.
6. Chronic Coughing – Persistent irritation in the respiratory system caused by asbestos fibers.
7. Respiratory Infections – Increased susceptibility due to lung damage and reduced lung function.
8. Reduced Work Capacity – Fatigue, breathlessness, and long-term disability impacting job performance.
9. Delayed Symptoms – Diseases may develop 20–50 years after exposure, making early detection difficult.
10. Psychological Stress – Anxiety and uncertainty about long-term health risks due to past exposure.

Risk's of asbestos

Legal Issues

1. Duty of Care Violations – Employers are legally required to provide a safe working environment.
2. Failure to Provide PPE – Employers must ensure proper protective equipment is used in asbestos-related work.
3. Lack of Risk Assessments – Companies must conduct asbestos surveys and risk assessments before work begins.
4. Non-Compliance with Regulations – Violations of laws such as the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
5. Failure to Inform Employees – Employers must disclose asbestos presence and provide necessary safety training.
6. Legal Claims & Lawsuits – Workers can sue for negligence if exposed without adequate protection.
7. Workplace Compensation Claims – Employees may be entitled to compensation for asbestos-related illnesses.
8. Liability for Contractors & Subcontractors – Companies can be held responsible for failing to protect third-party workers.
9. Fines & Sanctions – Regulatory bodies can impose heavy fines for non-compliance.
10. Prosecution for Severe Negligence – In extreme cases, company directors may face criminal charges.

Financial Consequences

Company: Turner & Newall (UK) – Asbestos Litigation Case

• Background: A leading asbestos manufacturer, Turner & Newall, was sued by former employees for asbestos exposure.

• Legal Outcome: Thousands of employees developed mesothelioma and asbestosis, leading to a multi-billion-pound compensation settlement.

• Financial Impact: The company filed for bankruptcy in 2001 due to overwhelming legal claims and compensation payouts.

• Industry Impact: The case set a precedent for corporate liability in asbestos-related diseases, leading to stricter safety laws.

This example highlights the severe financial risks for businesses that fail to comply with asbestos safety regulations.