New warning on a hidden killer

A £1.2 million campaign is aiming to protect tradesmen from across Greater Manchester from the UK’s biggest industrial killer.

Figures show there were 917 male deaths from the asbestos-related disease mesothelioma in Greater Manchester between 1981 and 2005 - including 55 in Oldham.

The Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE’s) national Hidden Killer campaign is warning workers of the dangers of asbestos and how best to protect themselves.

Across Britain, around 20 tradesmen die from asbestos diseases every week and the numbers are increasing.

Workers most at risk are those most likely to disturb or damage asbestos, such as plumbers, joiners and electricians.

Anyone working on a building that was built or refurbished before the year 2000 could be exposed to asbestos without even knowing it. In the UK, around 500,000 non-domestic buildings contain asbestos.

Mike Cross, HSE’s North-West head of construction, said: “Asbestos is Britain’s biggest industrial killer and remains a very real threat to Greater Manchester workers.

“Contrary to what many people believe, the risks are not a thing of the past. Asbestos-related illnesses claim the lives of 4,000 people every year — more than die in road accidents.

“The most simple, but important advice is, if you are not 100 per cent certain that there is no asbestos where you are working, then don’t start work. It is not worth the risk.

“Think of it as not just protecting yourself, but also protecting your family and loved ones from unnecessary heartache.”

Asbestos materials only present a risk if fibres are released into the air where they can be breathed in.

The campaign is backed by unions, employers’ representatives, health charities, sufferers and victims’ groups. For more information, visit www.hse.gov.uk/hiddenkiller .