Despite being banned in the UK more than 20 years ago, asbestos remains a deadly threat. Cases of asbestos-related illness continue to rise, with workers across construction, demolition, and maintenance industries still being exposed.
A recent prosecution highlights the ongoing danger. A Manchester-based construction company, A1 Property Maintenance Management Limited, has been fined after workers were put at risk during refurbishment works at the former Unicorn Public House in Eccles.
During an inspection in May 2022, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found asbestos insulating board had been illegally removed, leaving workers vulnerable to contamination. Although asbestos debris was eventually removed by licensed contractors, the company failed to carry out a full asbestos survey before allowing further work to continue.
The company pleaded guilty to breaching The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and was fined £5,360 with additional costs.
Asbestos is Not a Problem of the Past
Asbestos was widely used in buildings until 1999, and thousands of structures across Scotland and the wider UK still contain it. For tradespeople and construction workers, the risk is ever-present, disturbing asbestos without proper surveys and safeguards can have devastating consequences.
Comment from Thompsons Solicitors Scotland
Laura Blane, Partner at Thompsons Solicitors Scotland, said:
“This case is another stark reminder that asbestos is not an issue confined to the past. Despite being banned decades ago, it continues to put lives at risk every day. The dangers of asbestos exposure cannot be overstated, even small amounts of disturbance can have catastrophic health consequences years later. At Thompsons, we continue to fight for individuals and families affected by asbestos-related diseases, and we urge employers and contractors to take their responsibilities seriously.”
Working with Action on Asbestos
At Thompsons, we work closely with Action on Asbestos, Scotland’s leading asbestos charity. The charity provides vital emotional and practical support to those affected by mesothelioma, lung cancer, and all other asbestos and work-related diseases and injuries.
Together, we are committed to ensuring that victims and their families receive not only justice and compensation, but also the care and support they need.
What to Do if You’ve Been in Contact with Asbestos
If you think you may have been exposed to asbestos at work:
- Stop work immediately and leave the area safely.
- Report the incident to your employer and ensure it is recorded.
- Seek medical advice from your GP, particularly if you have ongoing symptoms such as a persistent cough, chest pain, or breathlessness.
- Ask whether an incident report should be submitted to HSE if asbestos exposure has occurred.
- Do not attempt to clean up or handle asbestos materials yourself, only licensed contractors should do this.
- Seek legal advice, if you have been exposed to asbestos through your work, you may be entitled to compensation and support.
Talk To Thompsons
If you or someone you love has been exposed to asbestos, Talk to Thompsons today on 0800 0891 331 for free legal advice and support.
