Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma: How Workplace Safety Has Evolved

Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer, primarily caused by inhaling asbestos fibres. It can take between 20 and 60 years for symptoms to develop, although a 2022 study suggested that higher or longer exposure to asbestos can speed up the disease.

Because of such a long latency period, mesothelioma is still a significant occupational health issue despite stricter safety regulations now being in place. Those who worked in construction, shipbuilding and industrial trades before 1999 are most at risk.

How common is Mesothelioma today?

According to Cancer Research UK, there are around 2,700 cases of mesothelioma diagnosed each year. Although a rare cancer, it has most often affected those who worked in high-risk industries, especially men over the age of 75.

“More than 2,700 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year in the UK, with most cases being in individuals aged 75 and over, and more men being affected than women.” – Karen Holmes

Although mesothelioma cases have increased by over 50% since the early 1990s, we may have reached the peak. Incidence rates are now expected to decline by 27% between 2023 and 2040 due to stricter workplace protections.

While regulations have significantly lowered exposure in current workplaces, older buildings still contain asbestos. This presents risks for construction workers, renovators and even teachers or students in aging school buildings.

How have Asbestos Health & Safety Laws changed?

The UK has some of the strictest asbestos regulations in the world, to protect workers and the general public.

1985: Initial ban on blue asbestos

The UK banned the use of crocidolite (blue asbestos).

1999: Full ban on asbestos

The UK completely banned the use, import and sale of asbestos-containing materials.

2012: The Control of Asbestos Regulations

This legislation brought together previous asbestos laws, requiring:

• ›Employers and building owners to identify and manage asbestos risks
• ›Regular inspections and asbestos management plans in buildings
• ›Licensed contractors for any asbestos removal work

Asbestos in schools

The same legislation also covered asbestos in schools, setting into law that:

• ›Schools must have an asbestos management plan and conduct risk assessments
• ›Staff and maintenance workers must be trained to recognise potential asbestos risks

Despite these protections, individuals exposed before regulations improved continue to develop mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases decades later.

What are companies doing to keep staff safe from asbestos?

For businesses working in environments where asbestos is present, strict health and safety measures are required, including:

• ›Comprehensive safety training on asbestos handling and removal
• ›Protective equipment, such as respirators, gloves and coveralls
• ›Strict disposal procedures to prevent asbestos fibres from becoming airborne
• ›Medical surveillance for employees exposed to asbestos risks

These safeguards mean exposure to asbestos is far less common than in past decades, but those working in older buildings should be aware of the continued risks.

How Tessa Gough Associates supports asbestos-related legal cases

While regulations aim to prevent future cases, those who were exposed to asbestos decades ago continue to face devastating diagnoses.

It is vital that accurate, expert-led assessments are provided for any legal cases related to workplace asbestos exposure and mesothelioma care needs.

At Tessa Gough Associates, we provide detailed expert witness reports that outline:

• ›The long-term impact of mesothelioma on a claimant’s health and daily function
• ›The cost of care, including palliative care, aids, and equipment
• ›How statutory services impact future care needs

“Care requirements can be vastly different for patients with mesothelioma. This is very individual.” – Joanne Clark

Our experienced expert witnesses, including Joanne Clark and Katie Palmer, bring a wealth of clinical experience to their reports, ensuring a clear and pragmatic assessment of each case.

“As a patient nears the end stage of the disease their care and nursing needs will heighten. To make certain these are met, we consider an array of factors to ensure that the patient’s symptoms are well managed, they feel safe, and their family is well supported.” – Katie Palmer

With mesothelioma cases requiring specialist medical and legal expertise, Tessa Gough Associates is committed to ensuring that individuals receive the most accurate and comprehensive assessments possible.

If you would like a full list of our associates with experience in Mesothelioma cases or to talk to one of our team members about any of our services, please get in touch today.

Frequently asked questions about Asbestos and Mesothelioma