The word ‘asbestos’ comes from an ancient Greek word meaning ‘unquenchable’, because it was used for wicks in lamps that burned longer.
But when talking about the ‘history of asbestos’, we should really be turning our attention towards the aspects which affect us, in terms of British buildings, legality and health. Like the Greeks before them, the UK construction industry prized asbestos for its many qualities, including durability and heat resistance.
In this article, we’re going to be exploring the history of asbestos, and exploring the timeline of its uses across the UK. Read on to learn more!
When was asbestos banned?
Asbestos became widespread following the amount of building work required in Britain after the second world war. Aside from its fire-retardant qualities, it also worked well in certain building materials such as Artex and decorative finishes.
But by the 1970s, more studies had begun to show the link between asbestos and serious health issues. This is still decades after the first ever asbestos-related death, Nellie Kershaw, was recorded. Nellie was an asbestos worker who died aged 33 from asbestosis. These increasing studies resulted in a voluntary ban in the UK, with industries offering to no longer import blue asbestos.
In 1980, the government issued a second voluntary ban on brown asbestos. The first official ban in 1985 covered the use of amphibole fibres (meaning both brown and blue asbestos, plus actinolite, tremolite and anthophyllite).
A total asbestos ban
A more meaningful blanket ban, which covered all asbestos types, including white asbestos (well over 90 percent of the industry) finally came to fruition in 1999. This meant that the import, supply and use of any type of asbestos was prohibited in the UK.
This relatively long timeline is the reason why the question: ‘when was asbestos banned?’ is a tricky one to answer. Despite the growing evidence and known risks, the total ban was long overdue by the time it was implemented. Meaning, that many domestic, commercial and industrial buildings built before 1999 may contain asbestos and could prove dangerous for anyone working on them.
The Health and Safety Executive confirms that figures in excess of 5,000 people a year die from illnesses relating to asbestos exposure in the UK, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. So although asbestos was banned decades ago, the effects are still being felt today and the potential dangers are still very real.
Unsure about asbestos regulations?
Though having a better understanding of the dangers associated with asbestos and knowing the history behind its widespread use is important, it does not mean that you’re competent to remove it, or work in an environment where the asbestos-containing materials may be disturbed.
If you want to ensure your building is compliant and safe without putting yourself or others at risk, speak to our licensed asbestos professionals today and get a free quote!
