Until recently it was thought that those now dying from asbestos-related diseases were exposed to large amounts of asbestos either regularly or during a single spell of work lasting from a few weeks to a few years. It is now thought possible that repeated low level exposures, such as could occur during routine repair work may also lead to asbestos-induced cancers. The scientific evidence on exactly what levels of exposure cause disease is unclear. But we do know the more asbestos dust inhaled the greater the risk to health. That is why it is important that everyone who works with asbestos should take the strictest precautions.
Many buildings still contain asbestos.
So electricians, plumbers, building maintenance workers, shopfitters and carpenters may still be at risk when they carry out refurbishment, repairs, or maintenance work on buildings which contain asbestos. Other workers, not normally associated with the building trade may also routinely disturb asbestos. For instance computer installers, particularly cabling installers, fire alarm installers, window blind fitters, or telecommunication engineers could also be at risk. Asbestos will only pose a risk to health if asbestos fibres are released into the air. They form a very fine dust which is often invisible to the naked eye.