Research Raises Concerns Over Identifying Deadly Material

New research from the British Lung Foundation has gone some way to highlighting how more needs to be done to better educate the public as a whole on the dangers of asbestos, a specialist lawyer at Irwin Mitchell has warned.

The survey by the leading charity revealed that two-thirds of people would not be able to identify asbestos around their homes, with awareness particularly low among women.

Younger people aged between 25 and 34 were found to be the least likely age group to know about asbestos and the possible dangers it poses in the home.

Irwin Mitchell has vast experience in representing people who have been exposed to asbestos in all kinds of environments from industrial workplaces to classrooms and hospital wards. The law firm also battles for justice on behalf of the families of people who have died from the asbestos-related disease mesothelioma.

Adrian Budgen, national head of asbestos litigation at Irwin Mitchell, said that the research highlighted the importance of continually improving education and awareness of asbestos.

He outlined: “This study sends a clear message out that many people remain unaware of asbestos and the terrible mark it has left on so many lives across the world. It also highlights how many people are simply unaware that asbestos can be present in old ceiling and floor tiles, as well as in Artex and soffit boards used in the home.

“We have campaigned for a long time on the need for employers to learn lessons from the past and ensure they are protecting workers, but an overall improvement is also needed in spreading the message about asbestos and how people can identify it.

“This could be absolutely vital in boosting awareness and ensuring people are clear on the warning signs and how they should act when they have concerns related to the deadly material.”