APPRENTICES are being targeted in an electronic campaign which will highlight the risks they face from asbestos.

And firms which employee trainees can discover more about the new e-learning package at a free event being held at Clydebank College next month.

Asbestos-related diseases claim the lives of around 4000 people each year, so the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has put together an interactive resource which spells out the dangers of what's become known as the 'hidden killer'.

Officials warn that tradesmen and women working on buildings erected or refurbished before 2000 are at risk.

Those who train apprentices can find out more about the e-learning resource at the Clydebank College event on Wednesday, March 6. Organised by the HSE, it's being held in partnership with the college, Federation of Master Builders and the Scottish Centre for Healthy Working Lives.

HSE principal inspector Archie Mitchell said: "Many young tradespeople believe that, because asbestos is no longer used in buildings, it's no longer a threat to them. But that simply isn't true.

"Older buildings contain asbestos and will continue to do so for many years."

"I want to encourage those involved in training our workers of the future to get this important message across."

Anyone interested in attending should contact Linda Aitken by email at linda.aitken@hse.gsi.gov.uk

gordon.thomson@ eveningtimes.co.uk