London Underground workers exposed to asbestos without protective masks, documents reveal
Summary
Documents show that London Underground workers were not given protective face masks against asbestos dust until 2020, despite safety rules requiring them since 2002. This failure could lead to more legal claims against Transport for London (TfL), which has already paid millions in asbestos-related compensation.Key Facts
- London Underground workers may have been exposed to asbestos without proper protective masks for nearly 20 years.
- Since 2002, employers must provide workers with face-fitted masks to prevent inhaling asbestos dust.
- TfL managers admitted masks were not issued to cleaning and maintenance teams until late 2020.
- TfL has already paid over £7 million in asbestos-related compensation and legal fees.
- Asbestos dust tests show some exposure, but testing was not done while asbestos was being cleaned.
- Workers reported frequently finding damaged asbestos, which is more dangerous because it releases more fibers.
- A legal expert said long-term asbestos exposure, even at low levels, increases health risks and could lead to legal claims if safety rules were ignored.
- A recent case resulted in a six-figure settlement for a worker diagnosed with a fatal asbestos-related cancer years after exposure.
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