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Taken up asbestos vinyl tiles

C2022Green
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Hi, 

I am new to this forum. I was wondering if anyone has ever had exposure to asbestos without wearing the correct PPE and taking the right precautions. I have recently taken up some floor tiles which I didn't know contained asbestos using a hammer and chisel. I am literally sick with worry and feel so guilty as my girlfriend was helping me do this. I have read lots about asbestos exposure over the past few days and I am so scarred that we will end up getting seriously ill due to what we have done. Can anyone shed any light on my situation I would be so greatful. 
 

kind regards 

 

C2020GREEN

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    Hello C2022Green, 

    If you are worried about having been exposed to asbestos, I think it is advisable to contact your local council and speak to an asbestos officer who should be able to advise you further and reassure you. Talk to your GP too and explain what you have done taking up the floor tiles which contained asbestos without PPE and your doctor will be able to tell you more about whether they think there were any risks involved in doing this. 

    According to the Health and Safety Executive, short term exposure to asbestos will most likely have led to minimal exposure to fibres, and is very unlikely to have any long-term ill health effects. You can read more about this by clicking here. 

    It's important to remember that most people have been exposed to low levels of asbestos, as it can be found in soil and air and yet few people become ill from it.

    I hope this helps!

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator 

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Lucie

    Hi luice, 

     

    thank you for reply . I have been in contact with numerous asbestos experts and they have said the same thing that minimal low exposure isn't likely to cause any harm. However, I am an anxious person so it is still playing in my mind constantly. I hope in time this feeling will subside. 
     

    kind regards 

     

     

  • Offline in reply to C2022Green

    That's reassuring that all these asbestos experts have said that minimal exposure isn't likely to cause any harm. I completely understand though that being anxious you can't stop thinking about it. Perhaps talking to your GP about it when you next have an appointment for example or just over the phone will give you complete peace of mind? Your doctor will be able to explain things from a purely medical point of view which may give you the reassurance you need at the moment. 

    Lucie

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