The figures for deaths show that in the years from April 2023-March 2024 there were 2,257 deaths from mesothelioma, an asbestos related cancer. This figure is down slightly from the previous year and considerably lower than the average of around 2500 deaths per year between 2012-2020.
These findings indicate that, at long last, we may be on a downward trend, it being over 50 years from the first instances of asbestos being withdrawn from use (in heavy industry such as shipbuilding) and as we approach the 50th anniversary of the ban on the use of the highest risk asbestos products including those using crocidolite and amosite, and let’s hope it continues.
Mesothelioma is a devastating disease that is incurable, cruel and painful. And for each one of those 2,257 deaths there were many more people who had to experience their loved ones suffering the consequences of historic asbestos exposure. The reduction in deaths may have also been masked by some of those who may have succumbed to this diseased having been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, especially as those who experienced long term exposure to asbestos were likely to have other comorbidities that made them more susceptible to the diseases associated with the virus.
As mesothelioma can take over 60 years to present itself from initial exposure, it is unlikely we will see numbers drop to zero for many years, especially as although these high-risk products were banned, they remain present to this day in many of the UK’s legacy building stock (in addition to an even larger quantity of lower risk products made using chrysotile asbestos).
All asbestos containing materials, whether considered high or low risk, can lead to asbestos related disease if fibres are released and so needs to be properly and effectively managed. These statistics are a timely reminder of:
- The importance of having a robust asbestos management plan in place;
- The regular monitoring of the condition of your asbestos containing materials (ACM);
- Adequate training for anyone who may work around them; and
- Suitable emergency procedures in the event of accidental damage.
At Assurity Consulting we have a team of experts on hand who can support and advise you with your management of asbestos, you can contact the team here.