Asbestos database set up

The UNISON public services union has started a database recording members’ exposure to asbestos.

The union is encouraging its members to complete a questionnaire recording details of any workplace exposure to asbestos they have suffered.

The questionnaire seeks details of how the individual was exposed, any witnesses to the event(s) and current medical status.

Although UNISON doesn’t organise workers who are at the highest risk of having been exposed to asbestos, their members may still be vulnerable. In particular, many public buildings contain large quantities of asbestos, which — especially in an era of cutbacks — are not well-maintained.

The union says that many public buildings “were built or refurbished using asbestos as a fire proofing or insulating product” and “are now falling into disrepair”.

And, it continues: “Cuts to public service funding can also make the situation worse. Asbestos in the buildings could then be more prone to accidental damage ... “

In these circumstances, it makes sense for the union’s members to be vigilant and make use of the long-term database.

This is especially so because, as UNISON emphasises, the time between being exposed to asbestos fibres and developing an asbestos- related disease “can be a significant number of years”.

www.unison.org.uk/safety/pages_view.asp?did=15166