Asbestos
The facts
Our position
Because all types of asbestos fibres are potentially harmful, we
think people should be protected from inhaling them. This includes
chrysotile (white asbestos), which though less dangerous than
crocidolite and amosite (blue and brown asbestos), is potentially
harmful in its own right and is often found in a mixed form with
other types of asbestos.
If existing asbestos containing materials are in good condition
they can be left in place. But, the use of the material should be
recorded, monitored, managed and not disturbed. If in poor
condition, they must be sealed or safely removed.
Employers, and those responsible for non-domestic premises,
should have their property checked for asbestos, using a competent
person (you might need to use an accredited asbestos surveyor).
We're campaigning for:
- healthier work and working environments
- better control of work-related risks, including asbestos
- use of workplaces to promote improved health and
wellbeing.
IOSH advocates getting better health through better work and
also the embedding of sensible risk management principles
throughout the education and training system.
Relevant IOSH consultation responses