National Asbestos Helpline

Deadly asbestos fibres
Asbestos was widely used by tradesmen and throughout the construction, automotive and engineering industries due to its fireproof and heat insulating properties during a forty year period from the 1950's to the late 1980's.

When inhaled, the fibres can cause serious respiratory diseases which are responsible for over 4000 deaths every year in the UK. "Every week on average, 4 plumbers, 20 tradesmen, 6 electricians and 8 joiners die from this hidden killer." (HSE 2009)

Signs and symptoms
Asbestos-related diseases include pleural thickening, asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. These diseases do not affect those exposed immediately, but in later life. If you are having trouble breathing, or believe you may have an asbestos-related condition, please visit your GP at the earliest opportunity for diagnosis.

If you have questions relating to an asbestos-related disease claim, please call our dedicated helpline on freephone 0800 043 6635.

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