Callie Nimki
Legal
Occupational Exposure of Asbestos
The Sunday Telegraph [2 February 2025] reported that a civil servant employed at MI5’s headquarters developed mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer linked to asbestos exposure, following refurbishment works at the facility.
This report highlights a case involving occupational exposure rather than the more obvious work types that are likely to disturb asbestos, this may be work such as insulation, lagging or construction.
Asbestos was used in many industries and buildings until it was banned in 1999. However, while asbestos continues to be safely removed, much of this material is still in place. Buildings constructed after 2000 are unlikely to contain asbestos.
There are serious risks to your health if asbestos is disturbed or damaged and harmful fibres are released into the air. Asbestos remains a significant cause of work-related deaths in the UK. If your job is unlikely to disturb asbestos but you work in a building that contains it, there will only be a risk to your health when fibres are released into the air and breathed in.
This case underscores the latent dangers of asbestos, which can remain dormant for decades before manifesting as serious health conditions.
Asbestos exposure remains a significant concern.
Martyn Trenerry, a specialist solicitor in mesothelioma and asbestos cases, said:
“This means people who work in older buildings could still be exposed to asbestos fibres today if asbestos is not managed effectively and is damaged or disturbed.
“If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease like mesothelioma, seeking legal advice is crucial. Mullis & Peake can assist in several ways:
“Engaging an experienced lawyer is often a critical step in holding responsible parties accountable and securing financial compensation.”