Skip to main content

Unite declare new asbestos exposure checks not good enough

NEW asbestos exposure checks for thousands of former naval helicopter repair staff are not good enough, the Unite union has warned.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has published new advice for the estimated 1,000 workers who risked exposure to asbestos while maintaining the navy’s fleet of Sea King helicopters.

Both veterans and civilian employees “may wish” to complete a MoD form if they believe that they could have been exposed to the harmful material, the advice says.

However, Unite criticised the MoD for not being more active in tracking down potentially affected workers.

Unite regional officer Caren Evans said: “It still doesn’t go far enough, as the onus is still on ex-employees, contractors and civilian and military personnel to contact the MoD.

“The MoD has a duty of care to all current and ex-employees – and at the moment, it is abdicating that responsibility.

“This makes it imperative that the MoD steps up its efforts, including national advertising, to track down former employees so they can be screened for asbestos that can develop over many years.”

The union has launched an online register for members to record where they have been exposed to asbestos.

OWNED BY OUR READERS

We're a reader-owned co-operative, which means you can become part of the paper too by buying shares in the People’s Press Printing Society.

 

 

Become a supporter

Fighting fund

You've Raised:£ 13,288
We need:£ 4,712
3 Days remaining
Donate today