According to the World Health Organization (WHO), global asbestos exposure remains a critical occupational health challenge. An estimated 200,000 annual deaths are linked to workplace asbestos exposure, representing over 70% of all work-related cancer fatalities.

More than 50 WHO Member States have now prohibited asbestos use. These alarming statistics underscore the persistent risks associated with this hazardous material in various industrial settings.

For students starting their professional careers, it’s crucial to be aware of the risks associated with asbestos.

This blog post aims to inform students about the sectors or fields prone to asbestos exposure. It also emphasizes what they should consider when entering those industries, along with a highlight on its legal implications.

What Is Asbestos and Why Is It Dangerous?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral. It was once widely used in construction and manufacturing because of its durability, fire resistance, and heat insulation properties. However, asbestos fibers can be inhaled when materials containing asbestos are disturbed. Eventually, this can lead to serious diseases like lung cancer, and mesothelioma, as per CPD Online College.

These diseases typically take years or even decades to develop. It often emerges silently, with a potential latency period stretching from 10 to 40 years after initial exposure. This implies that individuals exposed today may not show symptoms until decades later.

Short-term but intense exposures can also lead to asbestosis and other diseases. A 2022 study demonstrated that those exposed before 2008 generally faced higher risks due to greater cumulative exposure levels. However once symptoms appear, they can be fatal.

Industries with Asbestos Risk

For graduates, it’s important to understand that asbestos-related diseases are not just a thing of the past. Certain industries still present higher risks for asbestos exposure. Students entering these following sectors should be particularly aware of the dangers.

Construction: Older buildings, especially those constructed before the 1980s, may contain asbestos in flooring materials, roofing, and insulation. Even in newer projects, workers may encounter asbestos during renovations or demolitions.

Shipbuilding: In shipbuilding, asbestos-containing materials were used for insulation and fireproofing, especially in areas like the accommodation spaces and engine rooms. Certain parts of the ship, such as behind walls and between ceilings often accumulate dangerous asbestos dust. These hazards are especially severe in rarely accessed spaces like escape trunks.

Automotive and Manufacturing: Asbestos was used in gaskets, brake pads, and clutches. Although its use in these industries has decreased, some older vehicles and equipment may still contain asbestos parts.

According to TorHoerman Law, these professionals risk carrying asbestos fibers home through contaminated clothing and equipment. As a result, their families may also be exposed to the negative impacts of asbestos. This secondary exposure pathway amplifies potential health risks, making awareness and proper safety protocols essential for workers in high-risk industries.

Key Considerations for Students Entering These Industries

For students entering any of the above industries, there are several important considerations to ensure their safety:

Be informed about the risks

Many employers are required to provide information about asbestos risks, especially in high-risk industries. Before starting a job, students should ask questions about the presence of asbestos. They must inquire about what safety practices are in execution to prevent exposure.

Proper training and certification

Students should seek employers who provide comprehensive training on workplace hazards, including asbestos. In industries like construction, workers must often complete certifications. This can be the Asbestos Awareness Training (AAT), which educates individuals on how to safely handle asbestos and avoid exposure.

In some cases, specialized training (Asbestos Removal Certification Program) is needed for workers involved in asbestos removal or abatement.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

In many workplaces, personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential to minimize the risk of asbestos exposure. Students should ensure that their employer provides appropriate PPE (respirators, disposable coveralls, and gloves) when working in asbestos-prone areas.

Workplace safety protocols

Students should also familiarize themselves with workplace safety protocols regarding asbestos. These protocols should include procedures for disposing and managing of asbestos-containing materials. They should also cover proper ventilation systems and regular air quality testing in areas with asbestos exposure.

The Legal Implications of Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos exposure has not only serious health consequences but also legal implications. In recent years, the number of asbestos lawsuits has been rising. The reason is that more people are diagnosed with diseases linked to past exposure. These lawsuits primarily target employers or companies that fail to adequately protect their workers from asbestos hazards.

Economic Consequences of Workplace Exposure

The economic impact of these legal battles has become increasingly complex for businesses and insurers. Market analysis reveals substantial financial strain, particularly in asbestos-related claims. The insurance industry has experienced a 9% increase in associated payments, totaling $1.8 billion in 2022. This

growing financial burden reflects the long-term consequences of historical asbestos use and inadequate workplace safety measures.

For students, this means that industries and employers are facing increasing scrutiny. Legal action can have severe consequences for companies. It can lead to stricter regulations, higher fines, and heightened safety protocols to avoid litigation.

Even in the UK and across Europe, employers must legally protect employees from harmful substances like asbestos exposure. In response, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in the UK has set clear guidelines. This is meant for employers to follow to protect workers from such exposure. Non-compliance with these regulations can result in severe penalties and lawsuits from affected workers.

If they suspect asbestos exposure, work professionals should report it immediately and seek medical and legal advice. Many workers who were exposed to asbestos decades ago are now winning lawsuits, with compensation settlements reaching millions of dollars. Understanding the legal implications of asbestos exposure can help students protect their future health and livelihood.

FAQs

Which jobs have the highest threat of asbestos exposure?

Asbestos exposure is most prevalent in jobs where workers handle, disturb, or work in environments with asbestos-containing materials. Occupations like construction, shipbuilding, and automotive repair have been the most affected. Additionally, textile workers, miners, and industrial employees in power plants also face risks from asbestos exposure.

What is the safe limit for asbestos exposure in the work environment?

The permissible exposure limit (PEL) for asbestos varies by country and regulatory body. For example, Great Britain has strict regulations on asbestos exposure in workplace environments. The protocol limits workers to 0.6 asbestos fibers per cubic centimeter of air over a 10-minute period. This is the threshold for determining if asbestos exposure during work can be considered sporadic and low-intensity.

What are the initial signs of asbestos exposure?

The first signs of asbestos exposure are often subtle and may take years, even decades, to manifest. In the

short term, individuals may experience persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or wheezing. Over time, individuals exposed to asbestos may also develop a condition known as pleural plaques.

For students starting their careers, awareness of asbestos exposure is essential, particularly in industries like construction, manufacturing, and maintenance. By understanding the risks, seeking proper training, ensuring PPE usage, and being aware of the legal implications, students can safeguard themselves. This way, they can make informed decisions about their professional paths.

Moreover, the increasing number of asbestos lawsuits highlights the severe health risks associated with workplace exposure. Students must prioritize their safety by choosing employers committed to maintaining safe and healthy work environments. As the workforce evolves, growing awareness of asbestos risks will increasingly influence workplace safety practices and legal protections.