On the 7th of July, 2023, The UK Asbestos Training Association (UKATA) will commemorate Action Mesothelioma Day (AMD) during its Annual General Meeting (AGM) at The Radisson Blu, East Midlands. AMD, observed nationally on the first Friday of July each year, highlights the pressing issues of mesothelioma and asbestos fibre exposure. The day also champions the cause of fundraising to accelerate research into combating mesothelioma, while honouring and supporting individuals whose lives have been touched by the disease.
The 'Go Blue for Meso' initiative, powered by Action Meso campaigners, aims to illuminate prominent landmarks, homes, and local spaces in blue. The campaign intends to draw attention to mesothelioma, a disease triggered by asbestos exposure that urgently needs to be addressed given the fact that asbestos remains prevalent. Alarmingly, it is still present in approximately 85% of schools, 90% of hospitals, and a host of other public and private buildings.
The grim reality is that more people succumb to asbestos exposure than road traffic accidents annually. Each year, over 2,700 individuals are diagnosed with mesothelioma – an entirely preventable form of cancer. Unfortunately, less than 10% of mesothelioma patients in the UK live beyond three years post-diagnosis, with the majority (60%) not surviving beyond a year.
In a bid to raise awareness and remember those lost to mesothelioma, the act of lighting up a focal point or home within a community serves as a poignant reminder of the fight against this disease. This year, Action Meso and its supporters are determined to show the world that the time to escalate awareness and take decisive action against this aggressive cancer is now.
UKATA will ask its members to demonstrate their solidarity by wearing blue at the AGM and filling the room with blue lights, in a moving tribute to those affected by asbestos exposure. The association continues its mission to underscore the risks of asbestos and to propagate the appropriate level of information, instruction, and training.
"We take pride in commemorating Action Mesothelioma Day at our AGM this year. Asbestos exposure remains a significant concern, and our commitment is to persist in education by advocating for training and safe practices to safeguard workers and the public," said Craig Evans, Chief Operating Officer, UKATA.
UKATA is celebrating its 15th year in operation this year, signifying a significant milestone in their ongoing commitment to promote safe working practices and ensure quality training to mitigate the risks of asbestos exposure.
UKATA, a leading association, is dedicated to enhancing the quality and standards of asbestos training with the aim to shield workers and the public from the hazards of asbestos exposure.
The association collaborates closely with its members to guarantee that they have access to the latest information, training resources, and industry updates. They provide a suite of support services to assist them in accomplishing their training objectives. Their membership encompasses a diverse array of organisations involved in asbestos training, including training providers, asbestos removal contractors, consultants, and equipment suppliers.
UKATA is fervent about promoting safe and responsible working practices, committed to working with members and partners to realise a shared vision of protecting workers and the public from the hazards linked with asbestos exposure.
To locate a UKATA approved asbestos training provider near you, visit www.ukata.org.uk or for complimentary advice call the team on 01246 824437.
Published on Wednesday 7th June 2023