what is asbestos

History/info?

"Asbestos - the greatest single cause of work-related deaths in the UK…"

At least 3500 people die every year in Britain from mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases with these figures are expected to rise over the next decade. Most were exposed to asbestos at work.

At the end of May, the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations (2002) came into force. The regulations are at the heart of the government's continuing strategy to eradicate asbestos-related diseases. They affect everyone responsible for the maintenance of non-domestic buildings, yet thousands of businesses are unaware of their implications. From May 21 2004, any owner or manager of property, or person responsible for maintaining premises, has a duty to locate and manage the asbestos in their premises.  Failing to do so could result in prosecution.