Workplace Health & Safety Queensland released their latest safety advocate film ‘Losing breath’, which is dedicated to Adam Sager who tragically died from the asbestos related disease mesothelioma at age 25.

Adam’s family share the heartbreaking story about how they unknowingly exposed their son to asbestos when he was only 18 months old. Adam’s family hope that their story will help raise awareness about the dangers of asbestos as there is currently no cure for asbestos related diseases.

Workplace Health & Safety Queensland are encouraging people to use this as a resource to spread the word about the danger of asbestos if not handled appropriately on worksites or in domestic homes. Asbestos is a type of building material used in the building industry between the 1940s and late 1980s and typically homes built before will likely have some materials containing asbestos.

Julie Sager (Adam’s mum) is concerned about DIY renovators and tradies and urges them to play it safe with asbestos. “Just do what you need to do to keep your family safe” Julie said.

If in doubt, you should assume that it could contain asbestos and take adequate precautions if handling, removing or disturbing it. Sampling of anything you suspect may contain asbestos is itself hazardous and should only be done by a competent person, and analysed only in accredited laboratories.

This powerful 16 minute film will hopefully raise awareness. To download this film visit the website: https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/forms-and-resources/films/adam-sager

For more information about asbestos visit the Workplace Health & Safety QLD website.

Source: WHSQ, December 2013