Initiative To Be Introduced Again In 2012

Asbestos experts at Irwin Mitchell have welcomed news that the Health and Safety Executive is to reintroduce its’ Hidden Killer’ campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of the deadly material across 2012.

Initially launched in 2008, the initiative was designed to ensure those working in maintenance and refurbishment projects were educated on the threat that asbestos can pose to their health.

Despite the Government choosing to postpone communications on the campaign in October 2010, it has now been confirmed that the decision was made at a recent HSE board meeting to relaunch the campaign next year.

The move has been backed by asbestos claims lawyers at Irwin Mitchell, who act for both victims and the families of those have died after contracting asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma following exposure to the material.

Adrian Budgen, national head of asbestos litigation at Irwin Mitchell, said: “The risks of asbestos are well-known to many in the construction industry, but it is vital that new generations working on maintenance and refurbishment projects are given advice on how to handle the material in the safest possible manner.

“Through our work we see many cases when people have fallen victim to asbestos-related illnesses due to negligence or their employer’s failure to act on offering them protective equipment and full guidance on the issue.

“The Hidden Killers campaign is a powerful way of ensuring that the very serious dangers of asbestos are highlighted to tradesmen and it is excellent news that the initiative is being brought back to life for 2012.

“Put simply, it could play a huge role in keeping many workers safe from future harm.”

If you or a loved one has been suffered due to an asbestos related illness, our specialist asbestos claims team can help you to claim compensation. See our Asbestos-Related Disease Claims Guide for more information.