A former London Underground worker has warned that passengers are being unknowingly exposed to toxic dust on the network. The whistleblower raised concerns about inadequate protection against hazardous waste during his time in the role.
Micky Steeds began working for the London Underground in 2018 as a vents worker, cleaning accumulated dust from confined channels beneath platforms. Between 2020 and 2023, he made multiple protected disclosures about unsafe practices at some of the capital's busiest stations.
His complaints included risky working methods, a lack of properly fitted protective masks, and the illegal dumping of waste. He was dismissed in August 2023 after being signed off with anxiety, following instructions to return to conditions he deemed unsafe or face termination.
An employment tribunal later ruled in his favour, describing the instruction as an "unfair and unjustifiable ultimatum." Steeds said he felt vindicated, noting that no worker should have to choose between protecting public interest and their livelihood.
During his employment, Steeds found the dust he encountered could contain harmful levels of asbestos, chromium, arsenic, silicates, and iron oxide. He described finishing shifts covered in thick dust and spending nearly two years cleaning asbestos-covered wiring before receiving relevant training.
He now wants the millions of Underground users to understand the potential risks they face. He stated that his employer dismissed his complaints and insisted conditions were acceptable despite evidence to the contrary.
Steeds reported witnessing bags of hazardous dust dumped on the tracks so workers would not have to carry them. He said the waste was placed in general skips rather than double-bagged and handled as special waste.
"I just want to make people aware of what they are breathing in," he said. "It's not just dust; it's hazardous waste, and they don't know that."
All forms of asbestos are classified as carcinogenic to humans. While risk is low if asbestos is undisturbed, once agitated the fibres can remain airborne for days and travel deep into the lungs.
Exposure can cause asbestosis, lung disease, and mesothelioma, a rare cancer that may develop decades after contact. Symptoms include shortness of breath, persistent cough, wheezing, fatigue, and chest pain.
The tribunal heard Steeds alerted managers in March 2023 that hazardous waste was being placed in general waste bags. In May, his complaint and others were found genuine and reasonable as protected disclosures.
The panel found asbestos was clearly present across sites and potentially disturbed by dry cleaning. It noted that improper disposal of hazardous waste could expose workers and the public to harm and create criminal and civil liability.
Managers were found to have failed to treat Steeds' complaints as whistleblowing. His legal representative said the case highlights the stigma whistleblowers face and serves as a lesson for employers.
London Underground has stated it will appeal the ruling and maintains strict controls in line with asbestos regulations. It says specialist teams monitor and manage asbestos locations to ensure safety for staff and passengers.
