25 Years On: Asbestos banned, but its legacy lives on

24th November 2024 marks 25 years since the UK Government’s landmark decision to ban the use, importation, manufacture and sale of all forms of asbestos, a move that was hailed as a victory for public health and safety. This decisive action, which came into effect after decades of growing evidence about the dangers of asbestos, sought to eliminate a material once widely used in construction, manufacturing, and insulation.

However, despite this quarter-century milestone, one harsh truth remains: while asbestos may no longer be used, it has not gone away. The dangers it poses continue to linger in our buildings, and our workplaces.

A deadly legacy

Asbestos-related diseases, specifically lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma (a rare form of cancer affecting the lining of the lungs), take decades to manifest. For many, the diagnosis comes far too late, often in the later stages of the disease when treatment options are limited. The UK is still grappling with the consequences of its past reliance on this material, and the UK asbestos legacy is perhaps the worst in the world.  The UKs importation and use of asbestos, and particularly amosite asbestos, has led to one of the worst asbestos fatality rates per capita in the world.   

The HSE reports that approximately 5,000 deaths a year in the UK are attributable to asbestos-related diseases, which include mesothelioma, lung cancer, and today to a much lesser extent, asbestosis. The exact number can vary slightly depending on the year, but this is the commonly cited figure, whereas the ONS states that for every mesothelioma death there is a lung cancer death attributed to asbestos exposure.  However, other studies put that figure not at 1:1 but 6:1 or 8:1. 

Regarding the comparison to road traffic fatalities, this is based on public statistics from organisations like the Department for Transport (DfT), which report that road traffic fatalities in the UK typically range between 1,500 and 2,000 annually, far lower than the number of asbestos-related deaths.

The hidden danger

Asbestos may have been banned, but the material is far from eradicated. Many buildings, especially older ones, still contain asbestos in various forms. The material can often be found in the fabric of homes, schools, hospitals, factories, and other public buildings, where it can remain undisturbed for decades. When disturbed – whether by renovation, demolition, or simply through wear and tear – asbestos fibres can be released into the air, where they pose a serious health risk.

The challenge today is not just about awareness, but about ensuring that asbestos-containing materials are safely managed or removed. The asbestos ban has led to increased regulation and a greater focus on asbestos management, but a failure to properly identify and deal with it continues to put people at risk. Often, the material is hidden behind walls, ceilings, or floors, making it difficult to detect unless a professional survey is carried out.

Sadly, there is a perception these days that asbestos is an historical problem, and no longer an issue. This isn’t the case.  As stated above, in deteriorating properties, asbestos is a real problem.  Moreover, the asbestos disease statistics indicate an increase in deaths of those working in education and health i.e. teachers and nurses, who will not have physically worked on asbestos-containing materials. 

The importance of safe management and awareness

While the UK’s ban was a crucial step in reducing the risks posed by asbestos, it is essential that we continue to focus on the safe management of asbestos, raising awareness and providing robust training, as required by Regulation 4 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. 

Workers in construction, maintenance, and demolition industries are particularly at risk, but asbestos also affects non-trades, such as staff in education and healthcare settings. That’s why it is crucial that duty holders are provided with training to ensure competence to adopt a safety culture when it comes to managing their buildings.

The future: what needs to be done

As we reflect on the 25th anniversary of the asbestos ban, it is essential to remember that the fight is not over. Continued efforts are needed to:

• Educate and raise awareness: People need to understand the risks associated with asbestos, particularly when renovating or working in older buildings. Clear guidance on how to identify and manage asbestos is vital.
• Improve enforcement: Though regulations have improved, ensuring strict enforcement of Regulation 4 is crucial, especially in workplaces and public buildings. This includes regular inspections and safe removal practices.
• Support for victims: Despite the ban, thousands of people still face the consequences of past exposure. Continued research into treatments for asbestos-related diseases and support for victims is crucial.

Asbestos might be banned, but it’s not gone

As we look back, let us renew our commitment to ensuring that asbestos is safely managed and that those affected by its deadly legacy are never forgotten.

If you need any support in the safe management of asbestos in your buildings our team of experts can support you with management plans, asbestos surveys and training.  Call us on 0161 872 7111 or visit aec.uk for more information.