Asbestos Scandal: 20 Years of Exposure for London Underground Workers
Documents reveal hundreds of workers were exposed without protective masks, with Transport for London facing potential legal claims after already paying out over £7m in compensation and fees
Hundreds of London Underground workers were exposed to asbestos without protective masks for nearly 20 years, according to documents. The lack of adherence to safety regulations has potentially put Transport for London (TfL) at risk of more expensive legal claims, after already paying out over £7m in asbestos-related compensation and legal fees.
The documents reveal that London Underground managers admitted to not issuing face-fitted masks to staff until as late as 2020, despite being required to do so under 2002 rules on controlling asbestos and other hazardous materials. Employers are required to take precautions, including ensuring exposed workers are given individually fitted face masks to prevent inhalation of toxic dust.
TfL has recorded more than 20,000 asbestos-containing materials across its network, highlighting the scale of the potential risk to workers. A manager said in December 2020 that 'A lot of people aren’t face-fitted,' and 'Staff shouldn’t have worked without face fit, but it has happened.' This lack of protection has been blamed on a lack of training.
Asbestos dust fibre sampling, required under the law, was not conducted, according to a 2023 email from a TfL manager. However, a senior engineer responsible for hazardous materials said in an email in December 2022 that test results showed levels of asbestos were 'below the relevant workplace exposure limits for both respirable and inhalable dust'.
The case of Micky Steeds, a former London Underground cleaner, highlights the consequences of exposure to asbestos. Steeds successfully claimed he was unfairly dismissed after raising concerns about exposure to asbestos and other toxic dust.
## Why it matters The exposure of London Underground workers to asbestos without protective masks has significant implications for the health and wellbeing of those affected. The failure to adhere to safety regulations has also put TfL at risk of further legal claims, which could result in significant financial costs. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing worker safety and adhering to regulations to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
## What happens next The revelation of the asbestos scandal is likely to lead to further investigations and potential legal action. TfL will need to take steps to address the lack of protection afforded to its workers and ensure that safety regulations are adhered to in the future. The case may also have implications for other organizations and industries where workers are at risk of exposure to hazardous materials.
