Asbestos is a hazardous material that poses serious health risks to workers across multiple industries. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed or damaged, tiny fibres are released into the air. If inhaled, these fibres can lodge in the lungs and lead to a number of severe and often fatal diseases.

One of the most dangerous outcomes of asbestos exposure is mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer that typically affects the lining of the lungs and other internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the leading cause of mesothelioma, with approximately 70–80% of those diagnosed having had contact with asbestos. Due to its long latency period, symptoms often appear decades after exposure, and the disease is usually fatal by the time it is diagnosed.

Another condition caused by asbestos is asbestosis. This is a chronic lung disease where inhaled fibres cause scarring (pulmonary fibrosis) in the lungs. Over time, this scarring makes it increasingly difficult to breathe. Although the progression may vary, there is currently no cure, and severe cases can be deadly.

Asbestos can also lead to pleural thickening, where the lining around the lungs becomes scarred and thickened, potentially causing chest pain and breathing difficulty. Additionally, asbestos exposure is linked to lung cancer, particularly in individuals who also smoke.

The level of protection required against asbestos exposure depends on regional legislation. In many countries, including the UK, EU nations, and Australia, asbestos is completely banned. However, it is still used in other parts of the world, such as the US, Canada, and China. Always refer to local laws and safety regulations to ensure adequate protection for workers.

Key points:

• Asbestos exposure releases harmful fibres that can be inhaled into the lungs.
• Diseases linked to asbestos include mesothelioma, asbestosis, pleural thickening, and lung cancer.
• Mesothelioma is almost always fatal and has a long latency period.
• Asbestosis causes irreversible lung damage and breathing difficulties.
• Asbestos use is banned in many countries, but not globally—check local legislation for guidance.

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