A recent report by The Independent has exposed that one of the world’s former leading asbestos manufacturers, defunct since 1998, sabotaged various environmental campaigners and journalists who were then working to bring the dangers of asbestos to light.
Manchester-based Turner & Newall was founded in 1871 and quickly found itself as the world’s largest asbestos factory during the early 20th century.
Concerns about the health effects of asbestos first became known several years before the turn of the 1900s, but the debates about the mineral’s safety only heightened as the 20th century progressed, amid widespread reports of deaths and illnesses.
According to secret industry developers seen by the newspaper, after multiple inquiries were aimed at the company regarding the illnesses and deaths caused by asbestos, Turner & Newall appeared to go on the offensive, wholeheartedly defending the asbestos industry.
The report stated that the company spent decades spying on various groups that showed concern over asbestos, including the worldwide environmental organisation Friends of the Earth, attempting to discredit them as communists – a dangerous allegation to make at the time.
As well as this spying, the company also ordered that a “very confidential report” had to be made concerning a documentary that discussed the tragedies that asbestos can cause. Titled Alice: A Fight for Life, the film, made by Yorkshire TV, showcased the story of former asbestos worker Alice Jefferson, who was dying from mesothelioma – an always-fatal cancer of the stomach lining and lungs caused primarily by asbestos.
The recent uncovering of these incidents of exploitation in the name of industry has prompted many to call for a full investigation into the company.
Unlike some organisations in the past, here at Salvum, we are happy to tell the world of the dangers of asbestos, and are willing to do our utmost to ensure that everyone lives and works in safety. We offer a wide range of services including asbestos surveying, fire awareness training and risk assessments, to name a few.
To enquire about our asbestos-related services or if you have any further queries, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly and helpful team today.
