Asbestos & Workplace Illness
Whilst the dangers of asbestos exposure are widely known to many, what is not so widely known is what asbestos fibres may look like and in what materials they may be found. Learn more below.
Head of Asbestos & Workplace Illness & Partner
Where the fibres are soft, flexible and curved (Chrysotile).
Where the fibres are straight, stiff and needle-like (Amosite, Crocidolite, Tremolite, Anthophyllite and Actinolite).
The HSE has provided guidance on what asbestos materials may look like. This can be found here. The only definitive way to find out whether a material contains asbestos is via laboratory testing.
The breathing in of asbestos dust can cause asbestos related diseases but proper precautions can be taken to avoid this happening. Always remember that asbestos materials may not be obvious and so if you have any suspicion about a material containing asbestos, assume it does and take the necessary precautions and seek relevant advice.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with an asbestos related disease, it is advisable to discuss your entitlement to compensation, as well as DWP payments. Our experienced Solicitors can go through all the available options.
Head of Asbestos & Workplace Illness & Partner
“Isobel was amazing from start to finish during what turned out to be a very long 20 month process, she was kind caring and empathetic throughout. Always prompt at replying to emails and keeping us informed.”
Yes. Asbestos fibres can typically remain suspended in the air for 2-3 days after being disturbed, though they can stay airborne longer in poorly ventilated or enclosed spaces. Because the fibres are microscopic and lightweight, they can easily be released into the air by minor disturbances and draughts, even after settling on surfaces.
Asbestos fibres are tiny and individually can usually only be seen under a microscope. However, they are easily inhalable if airborne.
Yes, in some circumstances. An individual asbestos fibre will not normally be seen with the naked eye because each fibre is microscopic in size. However, if asbestos materials are damaged and clumps of asbestos fibres are released, they may be easily seen. If, for example, a worker is sweeping up asbestos dust and debris, the asbestos fibres are likely to be seen. If someone is cutting up asbestos sheeting, the dust will be seen as there is so much of it being generated.
Only with specialised cleaning. Standard washing in a household washing machine is not guaranteed to remove all or even most embedded asbestos fibres. In fact, attempting to wash contaminated clothing in a standard washing machine can make the fibres airborne and can contaminate the washing machine, spreading the hazard to other laundry. Airborne danger can occur when shaking out or handling contaminated clothes which can release fibres into the air. Clothing should be cleaned by specialised, industrial or professional decontamination services.
All asbestos, irrelevant of colour or type, is dangerous for health. Asbestos fibres are toxic and are recognised carcinogens.
No. Mesothelioma and asbestos related pleural thickening can be caused by minimal exposure to asbestos dust. However, asbestosis and asbestos related lung cancer require a higher level of exposure to asbestos dust. All exposure to any type of asbestos dust, even minimal exposure, is therefore risky to health.
If you have been exposed to asbestos and developed an illness, you might be able to claim compensation. Our specialist team can explain your options clearly and calmly – with no obligation to go any further than feels right for you.
Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors is proud of the many positive testimonials that we receive, reinforced by our ‘Excellent’ rating on Trustpilot. Please read through what some of our clients have had to say about their experience with our legal teams.
Mesothelioma can develop in several different forms, each affecting the body in distinct ways. In this blog our Asbestos team explore the main types including sarcomatoid, biphasic, pleural and peritoneal mesothelioma as well as the rare variants such as testicular and pericardial mesothelioma, helping you understand how they differ and why early awareness matters.
Action Mesothelioma Day 2026, held on Friday 3 July, is a national day of awareness and remembrance for everyone affected by mesothelioma. With thousands diagnosed each year due to past asbestos exposure, this day highlights the importance of support, education, and early legal advice. Learn more about the risks, the history of asbestos use in the UK, and how you can get involved.
The family of former British Rail worker Ted Robinson is appealing for his old colleagues to come forward after the 91‑year‑old died from mesothelioma, an asbestos‑related cancer linked to his years at the Nine Elms depot. Ted’s son, Daren, has spoken of the heartbreaking decline of his previously healthy father and is seeking vital evidence to help specialist Asbestos and Workplace Illness lawyer Lorna Webster investigate how Ted was exposed to deadly asbestos dust.
