An estimated 10,000 students and teachers in schools have lost their lives due to asbestos over the past four decades. The figures provided by the Joint Union Asbestos Committee reveal alarming statistics regarding the deaths caused by hazardous substances from 1980 to 2017, according to the Daily Mail. The harmful materials, containing asbestos, released harmful fibers into the air when the buildings deteriorated or suffered damage, resulting in severe illnesses.
Although asbestos was banned in 1999, its presence remains a significant concern as approximately 21,500 schools are believed to still contain this hazardous material. As recent as last week, The National Audit Office reported that around 24,000 school buildings are deteriorating and have surpassed their intended lifespan. These tragic deaths were primarily caused by mesothelioma, a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and the lower digestive tract – according to the committee representing eight teaching unions.
The number of asbestos-related deaths will decrease in the coming decade due to reduced exposure of individuals to this harmful substance, according to the The Times. However, campaigners hold a different view, arguing that this decline can only occur if there is no additional exposure resulting from the deterioration of buildings. Experts have warned of a potential rise in cancer cases over the next 30 to 40 years if asbestos is not removed from existing buildings. The presence of asbestos in these structures could continue to pose a risk and contribute to an increase in asbestos-related deaths and adverse health outcomes in the future, The Time states.
In 2019, the think-tank ResPublica urged the government to reform its policies in order to prevent the loss of lives among teachers and nurses due to asbestos-related deaths. This call for action came in response to reports revealing that various buildings in the UK, including hospitals and schools, still harbored a staggering six million tonnes of asbestos. The urgent need for policy changes was emphasised to address the ongoing risks posed by the presence of asbestos in these establishments.
UKExpertMedical are specialists in Industrial Disease and have a dedicated team working solely on claims for Asbestos Related Disease. We understand the demands of this type of claim which is why we work with efficiency to ensure you get the Medico-Legal Reports you need to bring your case to a prompt conclusion. If you have an Asbestos Related Disease case, or any other case in relation to Industrial Disease, our experts are here to help. See our information on Industrial Disease Reports and get in touch.
