Asbestos News
Fire at asbestos-containing UK building under control
A derelict building in Wingerworth, UK, recently went up in flames, prompting concerns from officials because the structure's roof contained dangerous asbestos materials.According to the Derbyshire Times, the building, which was located at the back of the Cold Products Ltd. structure in Wingerworth, was discovered to be on fire at approximately 8 p.m. on Tuesday, November 8.
Ian Snodgrass, a watch manager from nearby Chesterfield fire station, told the Times that the building was an "old, unused storage unit." He added that precautions were taken due to the potential for asbestos exposure.
"We were concerned because it became apparent there was asbestos in the roof so we had to extinguish the fire using breathing apparatus and by keeping a safe distance," Snodgrass explained.
Asbestos exposure can have deadly consequences, as the inhalation of the dangerous mineral fibers can lead to the development of lung cancer, asbestosis and malignant mesothelioma, a rare cancer.
Firefighters from Chesterfield and Clay Cross reportedly put the fire out and had the area controlled within two hours, the news source said.
11/10/11
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