British Lung Foundation’s Breathe Easy Week and Action Mesothelioma Day 2010 - By: Ray Corey

The British Lung Foundation is running two campaigns this summer to help raise awareness of mesothelioma and other lung conditions. “Breathe Easy Week” takes place between June 14th and June 20th 2010, with awareness events happening across the country, including talks, teas, quizzes, sponsored walks and other activities. The theme for this year’s Breathe Easy Week is ‘Lungs are for life’. Various hospitals across the UK are hosting stands with advice, information and lung testing by respiratory nurses.

The British Lung Foundation campaigns heavily to raise awareness of the chest cancer mesothelioma, and for better treatments for those who suffer from the disease. Each year they culminate the annual campaign activity with Action Mesothelioma Day, which takes place this year on July 2nd. In 2006 the British Lung Foundation presented parliament with the Mesothelioma Charter, with over 14,000 signatures, demanding better care and treatment for mesothelioma patients. The charity still focuses heavily on this charter in their campaigning.

The 2010 Action Mesothelioma Day focuses on DIY and the dangers of asbestos in the home. It may be overlooked by some, but disturbing asbestos in the domestic environment is still a high risk. Asbestos is not a thing of the past and still remains in many homes today. The British Lung Foundation wants to make people aware of the possible risks when carrying out home improvements, particularly surrounding asbestos management. They also seek to inform people of the responsibilities they have to safely dispose of asbestos even if it is uncovered by a tradesperson contracted to do the DIY.

In 2002 the ‘Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations’ came into effect. As part of this regulation, landlords, owners and those who have maintenance and repair responsibilities were given a ‘Duty to Manage’ the risks from asbestos in properties. Asbestos consultants advise that the only way to tell if something contains asbestos is by testing a sample and this must ONLY be done by a trained surveyor. Asbestos lagging, spray coatings or large areas of insulation should not be disturbed, they should only be safely removed by licensed asbestos surveyors.

When moving into a new property as a tenant or owner, make sure you are fully aware of the potential of any asbestos containing materials being present in the building. Seek independent advice if you can, as some landlords or property vendors may not disclose the risks that you need to be aware of. Asbestos surveys should be a priority for new home-owners, to asses any potential risks before any home improvements are carried out.

The British Lung Foundation continues to try to raise awareness of mesothelioma, and have to date achieved a pledge from the government to pass the Coroners and Justice Bill. This will create a Chief Coroner to enforce national standards and ensure good service for bereaved families. In the meantime they hope to continue to effectively spread awareness of the risks associated with asbestos in both the domestic and public environment, hopefully aiding in reducing asbestos related risks.

About the Author

The author is working for a company doing asbestos surveys. So if you need asbestos surveyors or, asbestos management, have a look.

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