Asbestos is a naturally occurring silicate mineral that boasts a long and interesting history. It is known to be resistant, durable, and insulating, yet it is also non-flammable. During the 19th and 20th centuries in the UK, Asbestos was in wide usage, especially for the construction, shipbuilding and manufacturing industries.
Asbestos came into prominence during the Industrial Revolution and it was in wide usage in most buildings that were built between the 1950s and 1980s. It was valued for its insulation of buildings, fire resistance and reinforcement of materials. It was also used in roofing materials, floor tiles, insulating pipes, cement products as well as domestic appliances.
The post-World War II housing boom saw extensive applications of ACMs (asbestos containing material) as a cost-effective solution to meet the demand for new housing and infrastructure. Since then however, its legacy has been overshadowed by the significant health risks associated with exposure, which have led to strict regulations and ongoing challenges in managing asbestos-related hazards.
Health Impacts and Recognition of Risks
The health risks of exposure to asbestos were recognised as early as the 20th century. This is as the first workers to experience its severe health effects were from asbestos factories and shipyards. Long-term exposure to asbestos fibres in the air causes diseases like asbestosis, a chronic lung condition, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, which is a cancer of the lining of the lungs or abdomen. Mesothelioma has become more associated with asbestos exposure, and many places around the UK report some of the highest rates of this disease globally.
Accordingly, public awareness of the dangers of asbestos increased after research and advocacy in the 1960s and 1970s. These studies revealed that asbestos-related diseases often had a latency period, with symptoms developing many years after exposure. This has had a lasting impact on public health, as many individuals diagnosed with asbestos-related conditions today were exposed years ago.
Legislation on Asbestos
In response to the large amounts of continuous evidence relating to the health hazards, the government introduced measures to regulate asbestos use. The first significant legislation was the Asbestos Industry Regulations of 1931. This mainly focused on improving working conditions in factories. However, only until much later in the 20th century little stricter controls were implemented.
In 1985 however, most of the dangerous forms of asbestos were banned. Such as, crocidolite (a blue asbestos) and amosite (a brown asbestos). Even chrysotile, also known as white asbestos, was banned later in 1999. Today however, asbestos falls under the category of prohibited substances under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, which demands strict protocols for the identification, management and removal of ACMs (asbestos-containing materials).
Despite the ban, asbestos still remains a cause for considerable concern. This is mainly due to its historical use. Many buildings constructed before 2000 still contain ACMs, including schools, hospitals and residential properties. The proper management of these materials is critical to prevent accidental exposure during renovations, demolitions or repairs. Regulations and laws will require building owners to identify and manage asbestos risks, this often involves licensed asbestos removal contractors.
Continuing Efforts and Future Directions
We still experience many asbestos-related problems today, particularly in trying to meet the needs of those who have been exposed to it in the past over a long period. The government has developed various schemes for compensation, like the Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme, for those who may not be able to locate their previous employers or insurers. Similarly, numerous public awareness campaigns have been developed to raise workers’ and the general public’s awareness about the dangers of disturbing asbestos-containing materials.
In summary, our relationship with asbestos is one of industrial progress and its unintended consequences. Whilst the strict regulations and bans have curbed new asbestos use, the legacy of its highly extensive application still remains. Continued vigilance, enforcement of standards, and support for those affected are necessary in managing asbestos-related risks and protecting public health.
