Earlier this week, a man named Alan Dykes was sentenced to eight months in prison and ordered to pay £7,660 in costs. His crime? Failing to prevent people from being exposed to asbestos.
Mr Dykes - who owned a building that was rented out to businesses as office space - pleaded guilty to five health and safety breaches at Bristol Magistrates Court on Wednesday. Health and safety inspectors had previously observed "blocked fire exits" and "serious electrical hazards" in Alan Dykes's building, but perhaps the most damning black mark against his name concerned his "failing to manage asbestos to prevent occupants and visitors breathing in fibres".
In case you're unfamiliar with the hazards of asbestos, here are a few facts and figures for you:
- Exposure to asbestos fibres can lead to a number of life-threatening diseases, including mesothelioma and lung cancer.
- Most asbestos-related diseases develop slowly, and are often incurable by the time they are diagnosed.
- According to the HSE, asbestos kills rougly 5,000 workers ever year.
The use of asbestos has been completely banned in the UK since December 2003, but it still turns up all over the country, often in surprising places (such as schools, underground, and even Buckingham Palace!)
Dealing with asbestos
If asbestos is discovered in a building, the affected area should be cordoned off using asbestos warning tape to prevent people from being exposed to the fibres.
Additionally, warning signs should be put up to warn of the danger and remind everyone that asbestos must not be disturbed except by qualified individuals wearing the appropriate PPE.
Until the asbestos has been removed by trained professionals, all other people should be prohibited from entering the affected area.
If there is asbestos on your premises and you fail to do anything about it, you could end up facing a hefty fine or even time in jail. Don't let yourself end up like Alan Dykes - make sure your workplace is free from asbestos and safe for all who use it!
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