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Background information on Asbestosis

What is Asbestosis?

Asbestosis, can also be known or called fibrosis, is a long-term disease of the lung which is often caused by inhaling asbestos dust/fibres over a prolonged period of time. The affected part or parts of the lungs develop scarring and eventually the appearance of tiny particles of asbestos known as asbestos bodies are often visible embedded in the lung tissue. Sufferers of this disease have an increased risk of developing lung cancer along with respiratory problems.

Asbestosis is one of a variety of conditions that can be caused by exposure to asbestos. Other conditions include: mesothelioma, pleural thickening and pleural plaques.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), "... at least 90,000 people die each year from asbestos–related diseases".

Asbestos

Asbestos means "inextinguishable, unquenchable or inconsumable". This naturally occurring mineral was used primarily for thermal insulation, as it had heat resistant qualities; it's strength; and resistance to chemical corrosion.

It was often referred to as the "Magic Mineral" during the late 1800’s and used heavily throughout the UK from the 1930's onwards. Asbestos could come in a variety of forms, such as raw, rope, paste or sheeting.

There are 6 varieties of asbestos:

Chrysolite: (White asbestos) - white, soft, curly fibres and accounts for approximately 95% of the world production of asbestos. By and large accepted as less carcinogenic than brown or blue asbestos
Amosite: (Brown asbestos) - pale brown needle-like fibres and more carcinogenic than white asbestos
Crocidolite: (Blue asbestos) - needle-like fibres and considered by far the most important and dangerous type of asbestos for the development of pleural mesothelioma
Actinolite, Athophylite and Tremolite - rarely used for commercial purposes in the UK, unlike the extent of Chrysolite, Amosite and Crocidolite

Find out more about Asbestosis

Prevention

Asbestos use in the construction and refurbishment industry is now illegal. Any asbestos that is already in use, is not a threat as long as it remains in good condition. If it is disturbed or damaged the fibres will become airborne and you are then in danger of inhaling them.

Precautions should always be taken if you suspect the presence of asbestos. Be careful if you are having asbestos removed from your home; do not come into contact with the dust particles.

Your employer should have recommended measures in place if you come into contact with Asbestos such as forced draught ventilation, use of effective masks and complete ban on smoking.

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