AS Global Asbestos Awareness Week draws to a close, we felt it was important to shine a light on the work of Mesothlioma UK, a charity which is close to all our hearts.
For many years, Acorn Analytical Services has been very proud to support the work of this amazing charity which supports people living with and affected by mesothelioma – through our campaigns, but also by taking part in a number of events to help raise vital funds.
This week, we’ve been sharing their posts on our social media channels to help raise awareness of the dangers of asbestos and mesothelioma – a cancer caused by exposure to asbestos fibres.
In this blog we explain more about the mesothelioma and ways in which we can help to protect you from its devastating effects.
Understanding asbestos
When the use of asbestos was at its height in the 50s and 60s, little was known about just how dangerous it could be.
Cheap, natural and fire retardant, it was a popular choice for new buildings, particularly in the years after the Second World War when demand for new buildings was high.
As evidence mounted that asbestos could be behind a surge of lung cancer cases among certain demographics, those in authority started to take notice, but unbelievably, it wasn’t until 1999 that its use was finally banned in new buildings across the UK.
But sadly, that’s not the end of the story.
While banning its use in new buildings has certainly been a good thing, the legacy left behind from its extensive use in the middle part of the last century is fast becoming a nightmare.
As those buildings age and the asbestos within them starts to deteriorate, the chance of asbestos fibres being released into the air is likely to increase.
What’s more, many people are still unaware that asbestos exists within their homes, their offices or even their schools.
The true impact of mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a cancer caused by exposure to asbestos which affects the lungs but sometimes also the stomach.
In the UK each year, there are around 5,000 cases and 2,500 deaths – many of those affected are young people in their 30s, 40s and 50s.
Currently, there are no effective treatments. There is no cure.
The only way to protect yourself and those around from the risks of mesothelioma is by finding out if asbestos is present, in your office, home or school.
What Acorn Analytical Services is doing to help the fight against mesothelioma
For us, spreading the word about the dangers of asbestos is much more than just a job – it’s a way of life.
We understand the health emergency and we want to make getting the right support and information as easy as possible for everyone.
If your building or premises were built before 1999, the first should be to get an asbestos survey carried out as soon as possible.
With support from our consultants, we will help you to get the answers you need fast and then advise you about the steps you need to take next.
As one of the last remaining fully independent asbestos consultancies in the UK you can be sure that any advice we give you is the right advice for you – and all those around you.
While Global Asbestos Awareness Week comes to end our work will continue. Get in touch today to find out how we can help.
Acorn is a professional asbestos consultancy helping organisations deal with asbestos compliance using asbestos surveys, asbestos air testing, and asbestos removal management.
Please call one of the team, or use the online form to obtain your free quotation. If you would like further information or advice on asbestos and asbestos training, contact the team on 0844 818 0895 or Contact Us
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