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LATEST NEWS – APRIL 2017
Latest News

LATEST NEWS – APRIL 2017

Experts in Scotland express concern over lethal asbestos material found in schools which could be exposing children to unacceptable risks of developing a serious asbestos-related illness. The true extent of the potential problem in Scotland has yet to be determined and was discussed at a one day conference at Glasgow’s Science Centre on Friday 21st April, 2017 attended by medical, legal and engineering experts.

An official from the National Union of Teachers and member of the Joint Union Asbestos Committee (JUAC) in England and Wales shared findings from England which indicated asbestos was present in 75 per cent of schools. Raising local awareness to the health threat from asbestos is a priority and has prompted the Department of Education to review existing asbestos policies in schools.

Asbestos material can be found in many buildings built before 2000 and was used for insulation and fireproofing purposes. Asbestos presents a risk only when it is disturbed and fibres become airborne. It is recognised that routine maintenance and general dilapidation of buildings causes asbestos fibres to be released into the air and more stringent limits are being called for in school buildings to protect our children and other affected school workers including teachers, caretakers and cooks.

Scotland records the highest global incidence of mesothelioma, an incurable cancer which is caused by inhalation of asbestos fibres and in many instances represents the legacy of wider asbestos use in shipbuilding and other industries. Mesothelioma and other asbestos illnesses such as lung cancer, asbestosis, pleural thickening and pleural plaques are slow to develop with symptoms developing many years later, commonly between 10 and 50 years later.

Common symptoms of an asbestos-related illness include breathlessness, coughing, chest pains and repeated chest infections. Anyone with concern over their health following exposure to asbestos fibres should consult their GP and speak with The Scottish Asbestos Helpline on 0808 164 7740 for further help and reassurance.