Most people today are reasonably health conscious and even those who don't give it too much consideration are more informed about health issues than previous generations. This is due in large part, to the wealth of information available today on all things health related - both online and in the printed press.

People are now more likely to be aware of the surrounding environment in which they live or work in, but in these heavily industrialized times there are hidden dangers and unseen risks in even the most innocent looking buildings.

Asbestos is one such hidden danger and exposure to it can have serious consequences. Little was known about it in the early 60s and unfortunately, the lack of knowledge resulted in a lack of precautions that many regret today.

Asbestos was commonly used in boilers, building & fireproofing material, insulation and soundproofing products as well as in the production of slates and tile roofing. The use of this hazardous substance is now very carefully monitored internationally after some retired workers began to develop respiratory problems resulting from exposure to toxic fibres within asbestos. It has been banned for use in Britain since 1969.

People who have worked in places where they regularly inhaled asbestos particles have sometimes developed Mesothelioma, a form of cancer that can take between 20 and 40 years to develop after exposure to asbestos dust. Shortness of breath and chest pains are among the most common symptoms.

Builders, electricians, plumbers, factory workers and their immediate families (asbestos particles can be brought into the home via clothing) are most at risk, but recent reports suggest that teachers, children and nurses are also believed to have been put in danger since asbestos was used in the construction of many schools and hospitals.

Asbestos fibres, when released into the air and inhaled can have very serious effects on health and this topic made the news again after the events of 9/11 when it became known that this is one of the problems which survivors of the attack on New York's World Trade Centre, as well as hundreds of workers involved in the rescue operation, may eventually face.

Unsurprisingly, the consequences of exposure to asbestos has caused a surge in mesothelioma and asbestos claims, mostly from those employed in the construction and manufacturing industries, but also from family members who had secondary contact with asbestos particles.

Claims can be placed many years after a person has left the employment of the related industry as symptoms can take long periods to develop. This has now become a significant issue within the insurance industry as many people who were exposed feel their employers simply did not do enough in terms of providing information and protecting them from the risks involved.



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