Homeowners largely unaware of asbestos
Two-thirds of people would not be able to identify whether they had asbestos in their homes.
The sturdy, heat-proof material was a common component of construction during the 20th Century until the harmful effects of its fibres were discovered. Any commercial buildings now containing the substance have stringent regulations on how to deal with asbestos, particularly if the building is being demolished.
A British Lung Foundation survey of 2,000 homeowners, however, found 45 per cent did not realise that asbestos had been used as a building material. The foundation is now campaigning for more people to be aware of the effects of asbestos and how to identify it.
Chief executive, Dame Helena Shovelton, said "Our survey has highlighted that nearly half of all homeowners do not know that asbestos was actually used as a building material and could be in their homes today."
"In light of this there's definitely more work that needs to be done to make sure people are asbestos aware."
Common diseases caused by the fibres include cancer mesothelioma, asbestosis and other lung problems. As it is no longer used in the UK, those most at risk are people working in the demolition industry or building repair and maintenance.
The BLF stressed, however, that it does not want to scare homeowners, and that asbestos is safe as long as it is not disturbed. If it must be handled then homeowners should call in a demolition or home repair expert with experience of dealing with it.
