Hidden killer message taken to key trade show

Date:

5 November 2009

Release No:

TBC/09

The dangers of asbestos will be amongst the workplace hazards and health issues under the spotlight at the National Painting and Decoration Show in Coventry next week (11-12 November).

The Health and Safety Executive HSE is hosting a stand at the Ricoh Arena event to promote its month-long 'Asbestos: The hidden killer' campaign, which urges tradesmen to protect themselves from breathing in the deadly fibres which they may disturb through renovation projects.

HSE officials will also be offering more general safety advice on issues such as working at height and slips, trips and falls in a bid to reduce the rate of fatalities, serious injuries and days lost through work-placed illness.

Jan Foers, Health and Safety Awareness Officer, said:

"The National Painting and Decorating Show gives the trade an opportunity to find out first hand the latest advice and guidance on improving health and safety.

"In addition to promoting our asbestos awareness campaign, we will be offering advice on manual handling, handling harmful substances, dusts, fumes and gases in the air, working near vehicles, loud and continuous noise, working with power tools and working at height."

Jan continued: "Slips, trips and falls, musculoskeletal disorders, breathing problems, skin conditions and hearing problems are some of the potential dangers of painting and decorating where HSE can give guidance to those in the trade who attend the show or access www.hse.gov.uk "

HSE will man stand number 10 at the show, which is free to attend if you register. Visit www.paintshow.co.uk for further details about the event.

Note to editors

1. The National Painting and Decorating Show is being held on Tuesday 10th and Wednesday 11th November from 09.30-16.00 (9.30am-4.00pm) at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry, when there will be 90 trade stands showing the very latest in decorating materials, equipment and services.
2. Radio adverts are currently encouraging tradesmen to get a free asbestos information pack by visiting www.hse.gov.uk/hiddenkiller. The information highlights where asbestos-containing materials may be present, what they look like, how they should be dealt with and where to find training.
3. To view or download interview with mesothelioma sufferer Christopher Morgan as part of the 'Asbestos - The Hidden Killer' campaign visit: http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2009/cmorganlong.htm or http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2009/cmorganshort.htm

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Issued on behalf of the HSE by COI News and PR