Asbestos in science lab gave former Coast teacher cancer

A science teacher FORMER Sunshine Coast has settled a claim against the Queensland education after Bunsen burner equipment made from asbestos contributed to her contracting mesothelioma.The father of non-appointed two and grandfather of four taught school in Toowoomba for 11 years, working in the science lab where he was exposed to asbestos dust and fibers.

As a teacher in the 1970s and 80s, he said they had no idea of ​​mesothelioma has been associated with the use of asbestos materials in the workplace."I spent every day in the science lab for 11 years, breathing inadvertently ticking bomb," he said."In chemistry and physics lessons, the students and I set up the Bunsen burners with safety mats that were made of asbestos.

"Because the equipment was moved to the laboratory, flaking asbestos in trace amounts on clothes and in the atmosphere."His teaching career continued relief work in schools in the Sunshine Coast, where equipment made of asbestos was also used.

He said before his diagnosis, he was very fit and healthy."It came as a huge shock to me and my family to be told I had the asbestos cancer after 35 years as a teacher."Slater and Gordon principal asbestos lawyer Martin Rogalski settled a legal claim for the former teacher and said, unfortunately, his were not isolated circumstances.

"Although asbestos is generally associated with mining and construction, I saw a number of guests who were first exposed to asbestos in classrooms, hospitals and offices "Mr Rogalski said."Mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases can take a number of years to develop, which means that people who were exposed there are 30 to 50 years still might not have major symptoms .

"It's important for people to remain vigilant about their health and seek medical advice if they believe they have never been in contact with the substance."Employers have a responsibility to ensure not only their employees are aware of the presence of asbestos, but also provide appropriate protective equipment and training."