You have to be careful about the health risks of home improvement, especially when there is a chance asbestos may be hiding in your home. It’s a fibrous substance that was widely used in house building between the 30s and the 80s, in things like Artex and other textured surfaces. Mesothelioma is a rare and dangerous form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure.
In 2013 about 50,000 people had mesothelioma and 34,000 died from the disease. Rates are higher in United Kingdom and Australia, and much lower in Japan. Commercial use of asbestos increased the rate significantly, and there are a lot of cases going on involving factory workers. But recent statistics have shown that rates of mesothelioma are increasing in people who don’t a a background in industry.
Despite how widespread it has become, 61% of people still didn’t know what mesothelioma is when they were surveyed, and only 6% have ever carried out an asbestos survey on their home. The cost of a survey, and potentially the removal of asbestos, is nothing when compared to the cost to your health later on in life.
Keeping safe while doing DIY is pretty simple and Slater and Gordon, who specialise in mesothelioma claims, have made this guide to give you the best tips on avoiding asbestos and other dangers in your home, such as mould, lead piping and the dust from MDF. If you’re ever in doubt about the safety of a project – get a professional in.
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