The Many Professions at Risk of Asbestos Exposure

23 Feb 2022

Despite being banned at the end of the 21st century in construction, asbestos remains a dangerous material that still kills thousands of people every year. It’s a lethal substance, taking only  one microscopic airborne fibre to be so. 

Whether exposed to it once or regularly over an extended period of time, the result is often the same. It’s when disturbed that asbestos becomes most dangerous, and at present, there’s no known cure for the cancer (mesothelioma) that it often leads to. 

Most who experience asbestos-related cancers are in their 60’s, as it typically lives in the body for decades before developing. Obviously, many of those suffering now worked in construction prior to the asbestos ban. 

A Range of Professions With a High Exposure Risk

While asbestos regulations currently protect those employed in most workplaces, there still remains a number of professions with a higher risk of exposure than most. This is largely due to what the roles entail and/or where they are based.

These professions include:

• Automotive repair 

• Firefighting 

• Military service

• Heavy industry

• Oilfield brake block repair

• Construction (renovation & demolition)

• Electricity generation

It’s important to remember that asbestos is every bit as dangerous away from the construction sphere. As well as existing in properties built before the ban in 1998, it can be found in automotive brake pads and other industrial products.

Protecting Businesses Against Asbestos Dangers

Even as we move into 2022, asbestos still represents the largest workplace killer in existence and at OHSS Safety Consultants, we have the expertise and experience to assist in managing the substance wherever it’s found. 

It’s vital not to take chances when suspecting the presence of this deadly substance, so before you do anything, give the OHSS experts a call on 01 6905907. We’ll be able to guide you to take the correct steps and not put anyone at risk.

Alternatively, to find out more about OHSS and our full range of occupational hygiene services, visit us today at www.ohss.ie. There you’ll discover everything you need to know and more.

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