News Archive

On May 2, 2025, Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare announced that an Osaka High Court verdict which had ordered the Government to compensate the family of an asbestos factory worker who died in 2020 would not be appealed; the Court had awarded the sum of ~6 million yen ($41,000) to the family, due to the state’s failure to take preventive and timely action on the workplace asbestos hazard. Government lawyers had told the court that the case had been time barred because of a 2019 change in the starting point for the statute of limitations. The High Court disagreed. See: State damages finalized over former worker's asbestosis in Japan.

Growing Support for Unilateral Ban

May 9, 2025

The article below cited medical, scientific and technical experts from Malaysia in support of recent civil society calls for a comprehensive and immediate ban on the use of all types of asbestos to be implemented by the Government. Amongst those quoted by reporter Harith Kamal were asbestos removal specialist Hisham Yahaya, International Islamic University of Malaysia Associate Professor Dr Muhammad Zubir Yusof and National University of Malaysia respiratory physician Associate Professor Dr Ng Boon Ha who warned of the regulatory gaps which still exist, such as the failure to ban the use of chrysotile asbestos even though the use of other types was outlawed years ago. See: Asbestos still in use despite known dangers.

New Tourist Attraction

May 2, 2025

A new museum housed in the original South Shaanxi Asbestos Mine Office Building in Miaoba Community, Da'an Town, Shaanxi Province covers an area of 270 square meters and is divided into 9 units: “introduction, hard work, eventful years, development heyday, honor, culture, production tools, product and mining history, and innovation and struggle.” With the decreasing demand for asbestos at home and abroad during the 21st century, it is believed that this mine, like some others in China, ceased operations. Even so, today China remains the world’s third largest producer of asbestos. See: 陕南石棉矿矿史馆在大安镇建成 [The History Museum of the Asbestos Mine in Southern Shaanxi Opens].

Post-disaster Hazard in Suzu

Apr 29, 2025

An on-site survey on April 10, 2025 of Hotel Kairakuso in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, which was damaged by the January 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake, identified the presence of crocidolite (blue) asbestos in fireproofing material on beams and columns. Raising the alarm, Secretary-General Fuyushi Nagakura of the Asbestos Center was categorical: “Measures should immediately be taken to prevent the dispersal of the substance and inform volunteers of the danger.” Commenting on the situation, a representative of the Ishikawa Prefectural Government said: “we have asked the hotel to take steps to prevent dispersal and stop using volunteers. We will consider necessary actions based on the survey.” See: Highly carcinogenic asbestos found exposed to air at Noto quake-hit hotel in central Japan.

Update on National Asbestos Ban

Apr 24, 2025

Although some restrictions on asbestos were implemented in 1999 and 2005, the use of asbestos-containing products in Malaysia remains legal, despite a government pledge to consider a national ban. The article cited below is a timely discussion of the deadly hazards posed by workplace and environmental exposures to asbestos and a reminder that scores of other countries have already acted to protect populations by prohibiting asbestos use. A spokeswoman for the Consumers’ Association of Penang, which has supported an asbestos ban for decades, called on the government to take decisive action sooner rather than later. See: Asbestos: The tiny fibres that threaten our lives.

Urgent Need to Address Asbestos Hazard

Apr 24, 2025

On April 21, 2025 Councilor Sung Chang-yong, a member of the Planning and Finance Committee of South Korea’s Busan City Council, urged the municipality to take urgent action to protect citizens from the continuing hazard posed by the city’s shipbuilding legacy. Operations at the contaminated site continue to endanger the lives of workers as well as local people by liberating carcinogenic asbestos fibers into the atmosphere, he said, during the first plenary session of the 328th Extraordinary Congress. See: 성창용 부산시의원 "부산시, 수리조선소 유발 '환경성질환' 적극 대응해야" [Busan City Councilor Sung Chang-yong, “Busan City must actively respond to ‘environmental diseases’ caused by repair shipyards”].

Victim’s Victory in Osaka!

Apr 23, 2025

On April 17, 2025, a decision by Chief Judge Yasushi Taniguchi of the Osaka High Court, Japan reversed a December 2024 verdict by Judge Yuki Tatsuno who had supported the government’s defence that the claim – from the family of a deceased asbestos factory worker – was barred by the statute of limitations. In the new ruling, Judge Taniguchi rejected this argument and ordered the government to pay compensation of ¥6 million (US$42,150) to the family. See: アスベスト被害の賠償請求権、除斥期間の起点は「労働局の被害認定時」…元労働者側が大阪高裁で逆転勝訴 [Statute of limitations for asbestos damage claims begins "when damage is certified by Labor Bureau" – former worker wins case in Osaka High Court].

Asbestos Removal Subsidies

Apr 14, 2025

This year Sokcho City, in the northeast of Gangwon Province, South Korea, allocated financial resources for the removal of asbestos-cement roofing from 87 buildings, including 81 residential and 6 commercial properties. Eligible property owners must apply to the municipality for grants of up to 2.32m won (US$ 2,380). According to the official press release: “The purpose of this project is to prevent health damage caused by asbestos exposure by supporting the cost of demolition and disposal of old asbestos-cement roofs…” See: 속초시, 2025년도 슬레이트 처리 지원사업 추진 [Sokcho City Promotes 2025 Slate Processing Support].

Asbestos Contamination in Yeongdeok

Apr 14, 2025

Personnel from the Korea Asbestos Safety Association, a non-profit asbestos specialist corporation operating under the Ministry of Environment, continue to play an important role in assisting emergency workers at premises damaged by recent wildfires in Yeongdeok-gun county in South Korea’s North Gyeongsang Province. In a statement by Yeongdeok County Governor Kim Gwang-yeol, he explained: “Based on the association’s expertise, the investigation into dangerous and difficult asbestos-cement structures is proceeding quickly, which is a great help in the subsequent demolition and restoration work. See: 한국석면안전협회, 영덕군 산불 피해 복구 지원 [Korea Asbestos Safety Association, Yeongdeok-gun wildfire damage recovery support].

Asbestos Banned in Schools

Apr 10, 2025

India’s Education Ministry banned the use of asbestos in schools as a precautionary measure to protect students and staff from exposures to a carcinogenic substance. Commenting on the prohibition, Minister of State for Education, Jayant Singh Chaudhary said: “I hope this starts a movement to gradually phase out asbestos use throughout the country and we build a healthier and cancer-free nation for our children.” Asbestos-cement roofing has been widely used on public as well as private buildings throughout India. Its use has also been banned at railway stations. Data collected from 83 Indian hospitals identified 2,213 cases of the signature asbestos cancer mesothelioma between 2012 and 2022. See: Exclusive | Education Ministry Issues Ban On Using Asbestos In KVs And JNV.

Post-disaster Asbestos Hazard!

Apr 10, 2025

The April 6, 2025 article cited below highlighted the environmental contamination caused by asbestos liberated during recent wildfires in Korea’s Gyeongbuk Province. According to a new report by the Environmental Health Citizens' Center and the Korea Asbestos Eradication Network: “most of the houses and warehouses destroyed by the wildfire had cement roofs containing asbestos, and it is highly likely that a large amount of asbestos dust was scattered in the air when they burned… This means that demolition workers, volunteers involved in restoration work, and even evacuees could be exposed.” See: 경북 북동부 산불 폐기물…“처리 비용만 1500억 이상” [Wildfire waste in northeastern Gyeongbuk Province... “The disposal cost alone is more than 150 billion”].

Asbestos Ban in All Schools

Apr 1, 2025

On March 28, 2025, a spokesperson for India’s Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (Central Schools Organisation) announced that the use of asbestos in construction and/or refurbishment projects in schools throughout the country had been banned by order of the Ministry of Education. Commenting on this prohibition, Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudhary said: “I was sensitised to the dangers of prolonged exposure to asbestos for children by scientists working in this arena…Safe learning environments are non-negotiable.” See: Govt bans use of asbestos in KVs, Navodaya Vidyalayas.

Construction Workers’ Lawsuit

Apr 1, 2025

A lawsuit was filed last week by 15 former workers and/or surviving family members over occupational asbestos exposures at former construction sites in Hiroshima, Yamaguchi and other areas. The claimants are suing six companies which manufactured and sold building material containing asbestos without any warning labels. Exposure to these products caused asbestos-related diseases including lung cancer and mesothelioma. See: 建設現場でアスベスト健康被害　元作業員や遺族など１５人　建材メーカー６社に損害賠償求める　広島 [15 former workers and their families sue six building material manufacturers for asbestos-related health damage at Hiroshima construction site].

Asbestos Screening Program

Mar 28, 2025

From March 18, asbestos medical screenings will be conducted by staff at The Asbestos Environmental Health Center, Cheonan Hospital. People eligible for the tests include residents from Jecheon, North Chungcheong Province in central South Korea who were exposed to high levels of asbestos liberated by mining and/or processing operations. Initially, the patients will have basic medical checkups and chest X-rays. Those with abnormal findings will be subjected to further procedures including chest CTs as well as pulmonary function and pulmonary diffusion tests. See: 제천시 수산면 석면건강영향조사 실시 [Asbestos health impact survey conducted in Susan-myeon, Jecheon-si].

Asbestos Eradication at Schools

Mar 13, 2025

According to a news release from the Gwangju Metropolitan Board of Education, South Korea, asbestos removal and demolition projects at 16 schools – 7 elementary schools, 5 middle schools, and 4 high schools – were completed on schedule during the winter holiday, allowing children and staff to return to remediated premises in time for the new semester. The city's Board of Education plans to complete asbestos eradication from all schools within its jurisdiction by 2026. See: 광주시교육청, 학교 석면해체·제거 개학 전 완료 [Gwangju Metropolitan Office of Education, School Asbestos Dismantling and Removal Completed Before the Start of the New Year].

Toxic “Non-asbestos” Paint

Mar 6, 2025

On March 2, 2025 records in a Tokyo court revealed that thermal insulation paint sold by Nippon Special Paints company and used by Tokyo Metro on its trains was not asbestos-free as the company had claimed. Asbestos contamination was discovered during a site inspection in 2017 which found the toxic substance on the inside of trains. A lawsuit was filed in April 2020 with the Tokyo District Court by a company in Gunma Prefecture which demanded damages from Tokyo Metro and Nichite. See: 東京メトロ車両　使用の断熱塗料に基準値超えの石綿　17年の検査で発覚 [Insulation paint used on Tokyo Metro trains found to contain asbestos exceeding standard levels in 2017 inspection].

Asbestos Phase-Out Plan

Mar 3, 2025

In a February 27th written reply to a parliamentary question, the lower house – the Dewan Rakyat – of the bicameral Parliament of Malaysia’s federal legislature was told by the Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad that the Hazardous Chemicals Management task force was considering plans to eradicate asbestos use. Whilst most types of asbestos had already been banned, the Minister admitted that although the use of chrysotile (white) asbestos had been restricted it had not yet been prohibited. “There are,” he wrote “other materials that can replace chrysotile asbestos in Malaysia.” See: Asbestos ban to be carried out in stages, Dewan Rakyat told.

Asbestos Removal Program

Mar 3, 2025

The asbestos eradication program for schools in North Jeolla Province, also known as Jeonbuk State, Korea, is progressing rapidly according to officials who predict that all schools will be decontaminated by the end of 2025, two years ahead of the deadline set by the Ministry of Education. Because of the serious risk to health posed by asbestos, the Jeonbuk Office of Education started to decontaminate schools in 2019; removal work was needed at 87% (699) of the Province’s schools. See: 전북교육청, 학교 석면 제거…“올해 안에 제로화 달성” [Jeonbuk Office of Education removes asbestos in schools...“Achieve zero within this year”].

Scheduling of School Repairs

Feb 28, 2025

Hundreds of elementary, middle, and high schools in Korea are taking advantage of the winter school holidays to undertake asbestos eradication work before children return to classes on March 4. Unfortunately, work at seven schools with large buildings and complicated repairs will not be completed by the resumption of classes, with parents expressing concerns at the disruption to their children’s learning. Schools affected include: Seoul Jeongae, Seorabeoljung, Jeongdeokcho and Cheongju Hyehwa. See: [단독] 석면 공사에 일부학교 개학 연기… ‘돌봄 공백’ 어쩌나 [[Exclusive] postponement of the opening of some schools due to asbestos construction... What about the ‘care gap’].

New Asbestos Narrative

Feb 26, 2025

New challenges to the asbestos lobby’s dominance of the national asbestos dialogue have included increasing public awareness of the asbestos hazard and legal victories won by consumer groups, which mandated that asbestos hazard warning labels in the local language be affixed to all asbestos-containing roofing material. According to campaigner Leo Yoga Pranata, the February 5 decision of the Central Jakarta District Court: “further strengthens the fact that asbestos roofs must include a warning label…” See: Terkait Penggunaan Atap Asbes dan Hubungannya dengan Kesehatan, Produsen Diminta Lakukan Hal Ini [Regarding the Use of Asbestos Roofs and Their Relationship with Health, Manufacturers Are Asked to Do This].

Independent Asbestos Audits in Seoul

Feb 24, 2025

On February 17, 2025, the Seoul Metropolitan Institute of Health and Environment (the Institute) announced that samples taken from 31 asbestos dismantling and removal sites (12 schools and 19 redevelopment sites) in 2024, showed all work had been be in compliance with government standards. Commenting on the Institute’s findings, Park Joo-sung said: “Asbestos has a harmful effect on the human body, so thorough management is essential… The institute will continue to do its best to alleviate the concerns and anxieties of Seoul citizens by conducting accurate and prompt asbestos inspections…” See: '석면'으로부터 안전한 서울…학교·재개발 석면 해체 현장 '모두 안전' [Seoul Safe from ‘Asbestos’... ‘All Safe’ at Schools and Redevelopment Asbestos Removal Sites].

Big Win for Civil Society

Feb 20, 2025

The February 17th press statement cited below conveyed yet another win by Indonesian campaigners against asbestos vested interests. After six months of hearings, motions and deliberations, Chief Judge of the Central Jakarta District Court Marper Pandiangan threw out legal arguments by the asbestos manufacturers association (FICMA) which had sought huge damages from civil society groups following a March 2024 Supreme Court ruling mandating warning labels for asbestos roofing products. See: Menang! Penjualan Atap Asbes Harus Cantumkan Label Peringatan [Win! Asbestos Roof Sales Must Include Warning Labels].

Asbestos Eradication: Update

Feb 17, 2025

On February 15, Ulsan City, South Korea announced that a budget of 92.48 million won (US$64,200) had been allocated for the removal and disposal of asbestos-cement roofing. These funds would help progress decontamination work of 13 residential and 4 non-residential buildings. According to an official spokesperson: “As asbestos is harmful to the human body and be can be liberated from old tiles, we will continue to support the cost of work to remove asbestos-cement roofing.” See: 울산 북구, 석면 슬레이트 지붕 철거에 9천만원 지원 [Ulsan Buk-gu donates KRW 90 million to demolish asbestos tile roofs].

Time for Asbestos Ban?

Feb 14, 2025

The properties, history and adverse effects of using asbestos were the focus of the Chinese language article cited below. Having explained that exposures to asbestos had been linked to several deadly diseases and cancers, the author asked why such a deadly substance was still being used in China. Highlighting the need for “vigilance,” it was concluded that given the high level of current demand for asbestos in China, it was not possible at this time to replace it with safer substitutes. See: 60多国禁用，石棉危害真的很大吗？为何我们还在用？ [More than 60 countries have banned it, is asbestos really harmful? Why are we still using it?].

Provincial Asbestos Eradication Program

Feb 14, 2025

Subsidies for asbestos removal in 2025 were announced on February 11 by the authorities of Gyeonggi-do, South Korea’s most populous province. To safeguard public health, 170 million won (US$117,065) has been allocated to help home and business property owners to replace and dispose of asbestos-cement roofing; the maximum amount available for any one project is 7 million won (US$4,820). Applications can be sent to City Hall. See: 경기 광주시, 석면피해 예방 위한 슬레이트 처리·지붕개량 지원 [Gwangju City, Gyeonggi Province, supports slate treatment and roof improvement to prevent asbestos damage].

Unitika Sued for Toxic Negligence

Feb 14, 2025

At a press conference on January 20, Mr. Toshihiko Kawai announced his plans to sue his former employer Unitika for its failure to protect him from exposures to asbestos at the Uji Plant of Japan Rayon from 1969 to 1979. As a result of the hazardous conditions at the factory, 73-year-old Kawai developed the asbestos cancer mesothelioma. Kawai told the journalists: “I want the company to accept responsibility and apologize to the victims.” A lawsuit has been filed in the Kyoto District Court. See: 企業責任認め謝罪・賠償を　アスベスト被害・元労働者がユニチカ提訴　京都地裁 [Acknowledging Corporate Responsibility, Apology and Compensation for Asbestos Damage | Former Worker Sues Unitika Kyoto District Court].

Toxic Legacy of Asbestos Mining

Feb 12, 2025

The article cited below from The Annals of Global Health reported research on contamination remaining at an abandoned asbestos mine in Roro Hills in the Jharkhand state of India. Having studied soil samples and exposure levels experienced by local people, the authors concluded that: “India should completely ban asbestos. However, even after the ban, closed mines may act as a potential source of exposure and ARDs. It is important that peri-mine areas need to be studied and intervened in scientifically to stop ongoing and future asbestos exposure. All countries engaged in asbestos mining need to invest in environmental risk mapping and hazard mitigation in their respective locations.” See: Understanding exposure risk using soil testing and GIS around an abandoned asbestos mine.

Asbestos Eradication Scheme

Feb 10, 2025

Pursuant to Korea’s national asbestos eradication program, Pohang City, Gyeongbuk Province recently announced subsidies for the removal of asbestos-containing roofing material from domestic, commercial and industrial buildings. People classed as vulnerable will be eligible for full grants for removal of toxic roofing from their homes. Applications can be submitted to the town hall along with photos of contaminated buildings. See: "석면 슬레이트 철거하세요"...포항시 슬레이트 처리 사업 추진 [“Remove Asbestos Slate”...Pohang City Promotes Slate Treatment Project].

Documenting the Asbestos Hazard

Feb 6, 2025

On January 29, 2025, the Lao National Asbestos Profile was launched at a meeting of the the Lao Federation of Trade Unions (LFTU), Union Aid Abroad-APHEDA Lao Office and others. The document, which was called “a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to address asbestos exposure and related health risks,” revealed that Laos still imports chrysotile asbestos for the manufacture of roofing tiles; the number of asbestos roof tile factories decreased from 16 in 2014 to ~6 in 2024; five of these factories are owned by overseas investors. See: Lao workers set to stop asbestos exposure: Launch of the Lao National Asbestos Profile.

Marble/Granite Industries: Asbestos Update

Feb 6, 2025

An article by Indian and US authors published in the current issue of the peer-reviewed International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health revealed asbestos contamination of ornamental and dimension stone and waste material – marble waste slurry – produced by their quarrying in India. The samples analyzed from a site in Rajsamand, Rajasthan found: tremolite, actinolite, anthophyllite and chrysotile asbestos. The presence of these carcinogenic fibers constitute potential health risks for workers, bystanders and tourists as well as downstream workers and members of the public who may be exposed to the toxic material after it has left the site. See: Marble Waste Dump Yard in Rajasthan, India Revealed as a Potential Asbestos Exposure Hazard.

“An Asbestos-Free World”

Feb 3, 2025

Pressure for a ban on asbestos is building in Malaysia, according to the article cited below by consultant respiratory physician and Social & Economic Research Initiative senior policy advisor Dr Helmy Haja Mydin. The text provided a summary of the advantages and disadvantages of continuing asbestos use and explained the health consequences for members of the public as well as workers from toxic exposures: “developing nations, where asbestos is still in use, face heightened risks.” Although asbestos is listed as a hazardous material under Environment Department regulations, it has not yet been outlawed in Malaysia as it has in many other countries. See: Useful, but dangerous: Asbestos needs to be phased out for our health.

Truth & Consequences

Feb 3, 2025

The increasing popularity of hiding interesting articles behind paywalls is a source of frustration. On January 30, I was able to access a Korean language article which appeared to be a translation of a January 27 English article which I had not been able to access previously. The author explored the hidden consequences of massive asbestos use in India, quoting an expert from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences in Mumbai who warned “that more than 6 million people in India are at risk of developing asbestos-related diseases each year, and more than 600,000 of them are at risk of developing cancer.” See: 인도, 석면의 유혹에 빠지다...'침묵의 살인자' 위험 외면 [India succumbs to the temptation of asbestos...’silent killer’ turns a blind eye to danger].

Progressing Asbestos Ban

Jan 30, 2025

Following up on the Cambodian Government’s concerns over the toxic use of asbestos, a workshop was held on January 27 in the capital to discuss the hazards posed by asbestos-containing construction material. The event was organized by the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction and was addressed by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Land Management Say Samal. Public health expert Dr Quach Mengly told delegates that health issues caused by occupational asbestos exposures included lung cancer, mesothelioma and respiratory diseases. See: Land Ministry discusses future of asbestos.

Victims’ Victory in Takamatsu

Jan 27, 2025

On January 23, a District Court sided with the claimants in a mesothelioma case over the 2003 death of a factory worker. Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare argued that the lawsuit had been time-barred as more than 20 years had elapsed between the onset of disease and the initiation of a lawsuit. Chief Judge Kazutaka Tanaka of the Takamatsu District Court ruled that “that the damage caused by death from mesothelioma occurred at the time of death, and the rights of the bereaved families have not been extinguished” and ordered the government to pay 14.3 million yen (US$92,000). See: アスベスト訴訟国に約１４３０万円の賠償命令高松地裁 [Takamatsu District Court orders government to pay 14.3 million yen in asbestos lawsuit].

Data Indicts Construction Sector

Jan 27, 2025

Last month, Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare) announced that 1,233 workplaces had been certified as having caused industrial accidents due to occupational asbestos exposures. Of the places named, 975 (80%) were new. The majority of those named (825; 67%) were construction worksites, of which 745 (90%) were named for the first time. A telephone consultation service was set up by the Ministry to take calls regarding the information released and the industrial accident compensation system. See:「令和５年度石綿ばく露作業による労災認定等事業場」を公表 [“Workplaces that have been certified as having work-related accidents due to asbestos exposure in FY2023” announced].

Paying the Price for Asbestos Profits

Jan 20, 2025

The price being paid in human health for the profits of India’s thriving asbestos sector remains unquantified in the world’s largest asbestos importing country. Asbestos producers and trade associations representing the industry aggressively deny that the use of white asbestos (chrysotile) is dangerous. Ailing workers and their families disagree. Mareena Hawkes of Coimbatore, India is convinced that the cancers and ill health experienced by her deceased father-in-law, her husband, her daughter and many others were due to occupational and environmental asbestos exposures. See: Hidden disease in the world’s largest asbestos importer.

Product Recall after Asbestos Find

Jan 20, 2025

Korea’s Environment Ministry issued a recall on January 14 after detecting chrysotile (white) asbestos in brake pads sold on AliExpress, an e-commerce online marketplace. The illegal automotive parts were suitable for use on a range of cars including those sold by BMW and Mercedes-Benz, and Honda and Suzuki motorcycles. According to a spokesperson for the ministry, asbestos had previously been found in products sold on domestic e-commerce platforms such as Coupang and Gmarket. In 2024, an official audit identified the sale of the toxic parts also on AliExpress. See: Environment Ministry finds asbestos in car, motorcycle brake pads sold on AliExpress.

Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake

Jan 20, 2025

The 30th anniversary of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake on January 17th led to many articles about the consequences of that disaster. Whilst the destruction of thousands of buildings in Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture and the Hanshin region were obvious at that time, the damage caused by exposures to asbestos liberated during the earthquake is only now becoming manifest. See: 阪神・淡路大震災から30年、アスベストによる健康被害の疑いはこれまで知られてきた人数の３倍以上と判明… [Thirty years after the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, it has been revealed that the number of people suspected of suffering from health damage due to asbestos is more than three times higher than previously known...].

Asbestos Ban and Climate Change

Jan 13, 2025

After calls by civil society groups for urgent action on Malaysia’s asbestos hazard, the Government confirmed it had commissioned a study of the environmental and health impacts of asbestos consumption. At the January 11th public launch of his book “Saving the Planet: Climate and Environmental Lessons from Malaysia and Beyond,” Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said: “We will assess how this issue is currently managed under existing legislation and policies. If there are gaps, we may need to improve them.” See: Govt mulls complete ban on use of asbestos.

Numerous Asbestos Failures

Jan 13, 2025

Officials from Jeju City, South Korea reported that following inspections conducted between December 2-31, 95 out of 116 worksites were not in compliance with health and safety asbestos regulations. Duty holders were informed of the specific nature of their failures and were advised that re-inspections would be carried out in the first half of 2025. Commenting on the situation, the Head of the Environmental Guidance Division Kim Eun-so said: “We will continue to make active efforts to manage asbestos in buildings so that citizens can be protected from being exposed to asbestos…” See: 제주시 관내 석면건축물 116개소 중 95개소 정기점검 안해 [95 out of 116 asbestos buildings in Jeju City are not regularly inspected].

Identifying Toxic Roofing

Jan 8, 2025

Asbestos-containing roofing remains a popular product in Indonesia. According to a new publication by Indonesia’s Central Statistics Agency (BPS) entitled Housing and Environmental Indicators 2024 almost 10% of domestic properties nationwide are covered with this material which has been categorized as carcinogenic by the World Health Organization. The highest percentage of affected properties are found in Bangka Belitung Islands Province (57.49 %) and DKI Jakarta Province (54.68%). See: Bahaya Atap Asbes Bagi Kesehatan, Padahal Paling Banyak Digunakan di Indonesia [The Danger of Asbestos Roofs for Health, Even though They Are Most Widely Used in Indonesia].

Growing Asbestos Export Markets

Jan 6, 2025

Just over a week after the first shipment of 50 tons of asbestos left Aksai County, China bound for India, it was announced that another 300 tons of chrysotile (white) asbestos had left Dunhuang West Railway Station en route to Dushanbe, Tajikistan. New streamlined customs processes and government support for Chinese exporters were cited as spurs to the development of foreign markets for asbestos exports. See: 敦煌机场海关：全力护航中亚货运专列常态化开行 [Dunhuang Airport Customs: Fully support the normalization of the Central Asian freight train [service]].

Processing Asbestos Mining Residue

Jan 6, 2025

As in other countries where decades of asbestos mining created mountains of waste, Kazakhstan technicians are working on methods for reclaiming iron, nickel, magnesium, silicon, etc. from the mining residue. The paper cited below detailed a “hydrometallurgical method for processing the CAW [chrysotile-asbestos waste] from the Zhitikara deposit in the Kostanay region of Kazakhstan.” The abstract of the paper concluded that “implementing pilot-scale hydrometallurgical processing of CAW can effectively address environmental issues that pose a threat to human health and provide commercial advantages.” See: Magnesium and silicon recovery from chrysotile asbestos waste of the deposit Zhitikara, Kazakhstan.

New Trade Route

Jan 2, 2025

The development of a new asbestos trade route from Aksai County, China to India was lauded in an online article on December 22 as a landmark “breakthrough” for Chinese asbestos companies. The first export shipment of 50 tons of Aksai asbestos to India was sent via the new link in December. According to official reports, asbestos reserves in Aksai County exceed 45 million tons, accounting for 1/3 of the country’s total reserves. The news of this development was reported with dismay in India [see: Breakthrough? Causing asbestosis, lung cancer, India to get tremolite asbestos from China].
See: 酒泉市阿克塞外贸出口实现零的突破 [Jiuquan Aksai's foreign trade exports have achieved a breakthrough].

Meeting on Asbestos Industry Threats

Dec 23, 2024

Aggressive and unprecedented moves by Indonesian asbestos vested interests were discussed on December 18, 2024 at a National Consumer Protection Seminar in Jakarta, organized by the Local Initiative for Occupational Health and Safety Network (LION) Indonesia and the consumer protection group LPKSM Yasa Nata Budi. Explaining why a successful lawsuit was launched by these groups to mandate the labeling of hazardous asbestos-containing roofing material, Dr. Anna Suraya informed delegates that according to the WHO, ILO and IARC exposures to all types of asbestos have the potential to cause cancers. See: Wanting To Protect Consumers, LPKSM Yasa Nata Budi Is Actually Sued By Corporate Interests.

Expansion of Asbestos Protections

Dec 19, 2024

On December 17, 2024 Korea’s Ministry of Environment announced that the Enforcement Decree of the Asbestos Safety Management Act and the Enforcement Decree of the Environmental Health Act had been revised. Under the new legislation, all children's centers will be designated as facilities subject to mandatory asbestos audits. In addition, asbestos safeguards are being improved so that even smaller children’s centers – those with areas of less than 50m² – will be required to conduct asbestos surveys from the end of December 2025. See: 석면·유해물 관리, 지역아동센터까지 확대…어린이 보호 [Asbestos and hazardous material management, expanded to local children's centers... Child Protection].

Supporting Osaka’s Asbestos Victims

Dec 17, 2024

Following the release of new asbestos disease data last week by the Japanese Government, victims’ groups in asbestos hotspots held telephone hotline sessions on December 12 & 13. In Osaka, the city with the country’s highest number of asbestos deaths (169), staff and volunteers from the Kansai Workers' Safety Center operated a free consultation service using a toll-free number between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on those days. See: 大阪は全国最多アスベストが原因で発症するとされる中皮腫で死亡した人被害者支援団体が相談電話 [Osaka has the highest number of deaths from mesothelioma, believed to be caused by asbestos, in Japan; victim support group launches hotline].

New Government Disease Data

Dec 13, 2024

On December 11, 2024 Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare released the most recent data showing an increase in the number of construction and other workers certified with occupational injuries and diseases caused by workplace exposure to asbestos. There were 1,232 successful applications in 2023, which was the 13th consecutive year that the number of cases exceeded 1,000. The Ministry also published the names and locations of the businesses which had employed the injured claimants. See: アスベスト労災認定昨年度1232人 13年連続1000人超 [Asbestos workers’ accident certification: 1,232 people last year, more than 1,000 people for 13 consecutive years].

Lung Cancer Spike in Non-Smokers

Dec 10, 2024

The rise in lung cancer among non-smokers in India has led to a more precautionary approach to be recommended, including the use of High-Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) within “population-based screening programmes targeting high-risk groups.” Eligible cohorts for testing should include people who work with asbestos and other acknowledged carcinogens. As per the latest data, 50% of those diagnosed with lung cancer in India are non-smokers. According to Dr Badiger: “Early detection and tailored treatment remain the key to saving lives and mitigating the impact of lung cancer across India.” See: Surge in lung cancer rates among non-smokers in India drives the need for better diagnostic tools: Dr Badiger.

Roof Tiles from Recovered Plastic Waste

Dec 10, 2024

A pilot project in Indonesia to replace asbestos-cement roofing with hard-wearing roofing made from recycled plastic has been completed on two homes on Batam Island. According to a press release from the group Seven Clean Seas (SCS), each roof tile was created from 1.5 kg of plastic waste. The material needed for the two homes used 1,700 kg of plastic which was recovered from the ocean and turned it into 1,186 roofing tiles. Since 2018, SCS has recovered 4,500+ tonnes of ocean plastic. See: Transforming Lives With Innovation: Revolutionizing Housing with Recycled Roof Plates.

Going Asbestos-free in China!

Dec 3, 2024

The article cited below documented the increasing availability debate in China – one of the world’s biggest asbestos producers and users – of asbestos-free alternative products. In this case, the safer fireproofing products under discussion are based on fiberglass, silicone rubber and polymer materials. Included in the text is a section on asbestos fireproofing which stated that this type of fireproofing is being “gradually phased out” due to the health hazards posed by its use: asbestos use had, the author wrote “been banned in many countries” as it caused diseases and cancer. See: 防火套管的材料选择对其性能有何影响？ [How does the choice of material for a fireproof sleeve affect its performance?].

Tribunal Calls for Asbestos Action

Dec 3, 2024

India’s National Green Tribunal (NGT) condemned the failure of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to take action on serious concerns about the hazard posed to human health by asbestos contamination of schools, despite a directive ordering that a scientific study be undertaken to learn “whether the health risks for students differed from those faced by industrial workers exposed to asbestos.” The Ministry was ordered to send a senior MoEFCC officer to court on December 17 to explain why it had not complied with the NGT’s directive. See: NGT slams MoEF for ‘stalling action’ over asbestos sheets in educational institutions.

Asbestos Banned for Use in ADB Projects

Nov 29, 2024

A five-page policy paper called the Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) recently disseminated by the Asian Development Ban (ADB) – “a regional development bank … [working] to promote social and economic development in Asia” – contained new provisions prohibiting the use of asbestos in ADB-funded projects. Included now on the Prohibited Investment Activities List is “financing the production, trade or use of asbestos fibers… This change is premised on a precautionary approach to avoid exposure risks to project workers and community members to all forms of asbestos and asbestos-containing materials given the significant health risk.” See: Asian Development Bank Environmental and Social Framework Policy Paper.

Eradicating the Asbestos Hazard

Nov 29, 2024

Ecological restoration work to restore abandoned asbestos mines in the Giant Panda National Park in Shimian County, Sichuan Province, China has been completed. After decades of asbestos mining, 245 hectares of land covering the areas of Banchanggou, Guangyuanbao and Xinkang have been neutralized using a “five-step construction method” of mine ecological restoration to address “the geological disasters, soil erosion and leakage problems caused by large-scale slag accumulation, and improve the survival rate and construction efficiency of the restored vegetation.” See: 石棉县废弃矿山生态修复完成助力大熊猫国家公园建设 [The ecological restoration of abandoned mines in Shimian County was completed to help the construction of the Giant Panda National Park].

Eradicating the Asbestos Hazard

Nov 22, 2024

On November 21, 2024 South Korea’s Ministry of Environment and the Social Welfare Joint Fundraising Association held a public event in Seoul to highlight the successful completion of many projects to eradicate the asbestos hazard from schools and welfare centers used primarily by children. Work by the Ministry of Environment to decontaminate these high-priority structures has been ongoing since 2017. The winners of the Asbestos Safety Poster Competition were announced during the event. See: 환경부, '아동복지시설 석면안전 선언 및 성과 발표회' 개최 [Ministry of Environment Holds ‘Asbestos Safety Declaration and Performance Presentation in Child Welfare Facilities’].

Government Settles Mesothelioma Claim

Nov 18, 2024

It was announced last week that a 73-year old man from Uji City, who was diagnosed with mesothelioma in 2023, had reached a settlement with the Japanese Government four months after a lawsuit was begun; the settlement was approved by the Kyoto District Court. The claimant had been occupationally exposed to asbestos between 1969 and 1979 at a textile factory. He received the full amount of compensation he sought which was 12.65 million yen (US$82,000). See: アスベスト訴訟元作業員の男性が国と早期和解京都地裁 [Asbestos Lawsuit: Former Worker Reaches Early Settlement with Government Kyoto District Court].

Asbestos at Nursery Schools

Nov 11, 2024

Officials in Changwon City – the capital of South Korea’s South Gyeonsgsang Province – recently announced plans to subsidize asbestos removal expenses for six public and private daycare centers. The sum allocated for this project is around 100 million won (US$ 71,530) and is, say the municipal authorities, a necessary “investment…[to] protect children from the risks of asbestos and create a safe daycare environment.” See: 창원특례시, 어린이집 환경개선사업 추진 “박차 [Changwon Special City, “Accelerates” Promotion of Daycare Center Environment Improvement Project].

Contamination of the Built Environment

Nov 7, 2024

An asbestos audit in Jeju City, the capital of the Jeju Province in South Korea, conducted from May to October 2024, confirmed the ubiquity of asbestos-containing roofing with 26,758 buildings showing signs of contamination. The vast majority of these buildings were still in use. The worst affected area was the Aewol-eup neighborhood of the capital with 3,250 toxic structures. Based on the survey results, the city plans to implement measures to promote asbestos eradication and replacement projects. See: 1급 발암물질 석면 건축물 ‘애월읍 최다’ 철거 추진 [Promotion of demolition of class 1 carcinogen asbestos buildings ‘mostly in Aewol-eup’].

Joined Up Asbestos Policy

Nov 4, 2024

A detailed and well-written article in Korea’s Women’s Times Magazine explained the government’s strict health and safety regime governing the removal and disposal of asbestos-contaminated building material. Having discussed the ubiquity of asbestos products throughout the country, the author explained the consequences for human health posed by exposures to the toxic material and highlighted the many measures put in place by the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Education Health to prevent such exposures. See: [정책진단] 석면 건축물·슬레이트 철거 지원사업 잘되고 있나 [Is the asbestos building and slate demolition support project going well?].

Nationwide Asbestos Patrols

Oct 30, 2024

Earlier this month, Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, and Ministry of the Environment announced a joint initiative to conduct asbestos surveillance at construction sites around the country during October and November 2024. During these inspections, technical experts will ensure that work is being undertaken in compliance with mandatory safety laws and regulations intended to prevent the dispersion of asbestos into the environment and ensure that asbestos-containing industrial waste is being safely disposed of. See: 綿対策に係る全国一斉パトロールを実施します [We will be conducting nationwide patrols to combat asbestos].

Hazards of Asbestos Brakes

Oct 30, 2024

An October 5, 2024 meeting at the Bangka Belitung (Polmanbabel) Manufacturing Polytechnic, considered the consequences of the use of asbestos-containing brake pads. On the panel of expert speakers were representatives of the Indonesian Doctors Association, Yamaha, Honda, and brake-pad manufacturers. Among the facts conveyed were: asbestos exposures can cause cancers; Honda banned asbestos use in brake pads in 2006; cheaper asbestos brake pads have a considerably shorter service life than safer alternatives. See: Polman Negeri Babel Gelar FGD Bahas Bahaya Asbestos di Kampas Rem, Soroti Dampak Kesehatan dan Keamanan [Polmanbabel Holds Focus Discussion Group to Discuss Dangers of Asbestos in Brake Pads, Highlights Health and Safety Impacts].

Asbestos Industry Event in Bishkek

Oct 28, 2024

An event organized by asbestos industry stakeholders masquerading as an “international scientific and practical conference” took place earlier this month to spread industry propaganda regarding the safety of the “controlled use of asbestos.” Co-organized and attended by pro-asbestos proponents from Kazakhstan – the world’s second biggest asbestos-producer – delegates were told of the unique properties of chrysotile (white) asbestos, its regional availability and its comparatively low price. See: Здоровье и хризотил: научная конференция в Кыргызстане даст толчок исследованиям минеральных волокон в СНГ [Health and Chrysotile: Scientific Conference in Kyrgyzstan to Boost Mineral Fiber Research in CIS].

Asbestos in Schools

Oct 28, 2028

An asbestos scandal is unfolding in Paju City, in South Korea’s Gyeonggi Province regarding the improper removal and storage of toxic waste generated by asbestos decontamination work at local schools. Staff from Paju City Council and the Ministry of Employment and Labor are reviewing actions taken by an asbestos removal company and the Paju Education Support Office, both of which are suspected of violating mandatory regulations. See: 파주시 “학교지원센터, 석면해체작업·감리 부적절 정황 포착” [Paju City “School Support Center, Detection of Improper Asbestos Dismantling Work and Supervision”].

Asbestos Alert in Kostanay Region

Oct 25, 2024

People in the Kazakh asbestos mining town of Zhitikar, in the Kostanay Region of northern Kazakhstan, are mobilizing over the elevated incidence of cancer in the region, which is home to the country’s only chrysotile (white) asbestos mining facility. The residents are demanding that the region be recognized by the authorities as an environmental disaster zone. Zhitikar has the fourth highest incidence of cancer in the region. In response to these concerns, the Ministry of Ecology issued instructions for inspections of the industrial facilities. See: Экокатастрофа: в Житикаре связали рак с добычей асбеста - обзор казпрессы [Eco-disaster: cancer linked to asbestos mining in Zhitikar].

Creating Domestic Asbestos Demand

Oct 25, 2024

At the beginning of this month (October 2024), it was announced that Kazakhstan’s first facility for manufacturing asbestos-cement façade panels had begun operations. This development is part of the drive to increase domestic consumption of home-grown asbestos, most of which is exported to foreign countries as Kazakh consumers have little appetite for using products containing a known carcinogen. After Russia, Kazakhstan is the world’s second biggest asbestos-producing country. See: В Казахстане открыли первый завод по производству фиброцементных фасадных плит [The first plant for the production of fiber cement facade panels has opened in Kazakhstan].

Government Support for Asbestos Victims

Oct 22, 2024

New data from South Korea substantiates the high level of deaths caused by environmental exposures to toxins and carcinogens and predicts that the incidence of mortality will rise in the coming years. From 2011 to August, 2024, 8,049 people had been recognized as suffering damage due to asbestos-related diseases. There were 4,622 cases of people who died from asbestosis, 1,417 from lung cancer and 830 from mesothelioma, the signature cancer associated with exposure to asbestos. Compensation was paid by the government to 1,176 claimants suffering from these diseases. See: [단독]가습기살균제·석면·오염…'환경성 질환' 피해 1만8천명 육박 [[Exclusive] Humidifier disinfectant, asbestos, pollution… 'Environmental disease' damages approaching 18,000 people].

Asbestos Cancer on the Rise

Oct 21, 2024

A paper published in the Journal of the National Cancer Center in September 2024 by scientists from China, Germany, Sweden and Canada reported that “the burden of MM [malignant mesothelioma – the signature cancer associated with exposure to asbestos] has been significantly increasing in China over the last three decades and will continue to increase in the upcoming decade, suggesting an urgent need for a complete ban on chrysotile asbestos in China.” China is one of the few countries still mining asbestos. In 2022, it produced 130,000 tonnes (t) and consumed 261,000t. See: Burden of malignant mesothelioma in China during 1990–2019 and the projections through 2029.

Asbestos Hazard in Domestic Settings

Oct 15, 2024

The prevalence of asbestos-containing products throughout homes in Kazakhstan is cited as a classic example of the dangerous technologies of yesteryear. Unfortunately, the presence of this toxic material within structures and in Kazakh homes continues to pose a serious health risk. The fact that the author of the text cited below commented on the carcinogenic nature of chrysotile asbestos is of significance as Kazakhstan is the world’s second biggest asbestos exporter and one of the key orchestrators of the global asbestos propaganda campaign. See: Какую смертельную опасность таят вещи из бабушкиного серванта [What mortal dangers are hidden in things from grandmother's sideboard].

Lung Cancer & Asbestos

Oct 10, 2024

China’s epidemic of lung cancer is costing 10,000 lives every year and in excess of 20 billion yuan in lung cancer treatment costs. Eighty per cent of lung cancers in China are lung adenocarcinomas; the majority of these patients did not smoke. Dr Chen Jinxing, a medical expert from Taiwan, advised women not to use cheap powdered cosmetics because they might be contaminated with asbestos fibers and to limit the amount of time they wear make-up to minimize the cancer risk. See: 不抽菸、没做饭仍罹肺腺癌台大医：1类化妆品别用 [If you don't smoke or cook, you still get lung adenocarcinoma. National Taiwan University doctor: Don't use Class 1 cosmetics].

Cancer Cases Rise Despite Asbestos Ban

Oct 10, 2024

The legacy of historic asbestos use in Singapore has been linked to the escalation of asbestos cancer cases despite the fact that asbestos use was banned 30+ years ago. In the early 1980s, there were five cases diagnosed of mesothelioma – the signature cancer associated with exposure to asbestos – every year; in 2019, there were 110 cases. For sufferers to access government benefits, the link between occupational asbestos exposure and the disease must be proved. This is often very difficult as shown by the fact that of the 394 cases reported to the Singapore Cancer Registry, only 94 were confirmed as occupational by the Ministry of Manpower. See: Asbestos: Singapore’s Toxic Past Is Catching up With It.

Asbestos in Schools

Oct 8, 2024

Although asbestos was banned in Korea, there are still asbestos-containing products within the national infrastructure. The asbestos contamination of schools is of particular concern and news of the asbestos cancer death of one former student was reported in the article cited below. Lee Sung-jin was in his 30s when he died having been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma when he was 18 years old. It is believed that he had been exposed to asbestos roofing in his childhood home as well as asbestos material in his elementary school. See: [단독] 교실 천장이 부른 비극…"잠복기 최대 40년" 우려 출처 : SBS 뉴스 원본 링크 [Exclusive. Classroom ceilings sparked tragedy... “Incubation period of up to 40 years”].

Asbestos Discovery in Naha City

Oct 8, 2024

The discovery of sprayed asbestos material on the ceilings of municipal apartment buildings has triggered plans to transfer residents from 59 households to alternative accommodation in 2025. Once the occupants have been relocated, asbestos removal work will be undertaken by specialist operatives. In the meantime, according to city officials, there was no health risk as the material was not in a friable or deteriorating state. See: 那覇市営住宅からアスベスト、59世帯を転居へ　健康被害の報告なし [Naha Municipal Housing to Relocate 59 Households to Remove Asbestos. No Health Hazards Reported].

Legal Attack by Asbestos Bullies

Oct 4, 2024

In retaliation for a Supreme Court victory mandating the labelling of asbestos-containing roofing products being sold in Indonesia, asbestos stakeholders from the FICMA trade association issued legal proceedings against civil society campaigners claiming damages for loss of future income. The robust defence being mounted by the consumer protection organization LPKSM Yasa Nata Budi is supported by a network of civil society groups including LION Indonesia, the Indonesian Ban Asbestos Network, the Consumer Protection Institute and the Aysa Nata Budi Foundation as well as international partners. See: Corporate Bullies: Asbestos manufacturers sue ban asbestos campaigners.

Raising Asbestos Awareness

Oct 4, 2024

In September, 2024 the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, in collaboration with sustainable development consultants from the AV Group B.V, organized an Asbestos Alternatives Workshop in Tajikistan, a country which between 2019 and 2021 used on average 18,000 tonnes of asbestos a year. The workshop reported on research undertaken last year in Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. Following the presentations and discussions, participants agreed to work towards an asbestos phase-out to protect citizens from contracting the deadly asbestos-related diseases caused by toxic exposures. See: Asbestos Alternatives Workshop in Tajikistan – September 2024.

Asbestos in Schools

Oct 4, 2024

On October 1, 2024, a spokesperson for Kamakura City, Japan announced that sprayed asbestos-containing material had been found in the ceilings of classrooms and hallways at four local elementary and junior high schools. In two of the schools “asbestos was exposed and was in danger of scattering due to deterioration or damage.” Following a 2008 investigation, it was believed that all the sprayed asbestos material had been removed from the schools. See: 鎌倉の市立小中４校でアスベスト検出　うち２校は劣化や破損で飛散の恐れ [Asbestos detected in four Kamakura city elementary and junior high schools, two of which are at risk of scattering due to deterioration or damage].

Asbestos Eradication: Update from Tainan

Sep 30, 2024

On September 23, 2024, city councillors of Tainan City, Taiwan raised concerns about the shortage of municipal funds and capacity to fulfil recent government orders regarding asbestos eradication from the built environment. According to estimates, the city produces 50,000 tons of asbestos building waste every year; at the current rate of asbestos removal, it would take 50 years to decontaminate the municipality. There are only two specialist asbestos removal companies operating in the city and a limited capacity for disposal of the toxic waste produced by their operations. See: 台南5万吨石棉废弃物待清理民代忧：50年才能清完 [Tainan's 50,000 tons of asbestos waste needs to be cleaned up, and the people are worried: it will take 50 years to clean up].

Truth & Consequences

Sep 27, 2024

People continue to die in Sri Lanka from lung cancer, mesothelioma, asbestosis, laryngeal cancer and ovarian cancer caused by exposure to asbestos-containing products used in Sri Lanka. Efforts by the government to impose an asbestos ban by 2024 were quashed by economic pressure from global asbestos producers including Russia. Since the 1960s, the biggest use of asbestos in Sri Lanka has been for the manufacture of asbestos-cement roofing material which is extensively used in the country. Recent research ascertained that this type of roofing was composed of up to 15% asbestos, an acknowledged carcinogen. See: Asbestos: A Silent Threat SL Can No Longer Ignore.

Restructuring of Asbestos Company

Sep 27, 2024

The article cited below highlighted key factors in the successful restructuring of a major asbestos production conglomerate in China. The state-owned Qinghai Chuang'an company in Qinghai Province, China had been on the verge of bankruptcy due to multiple factors including its distance from target markets and rigid business practices. As a result of a three-year transformation process, the company’s brand had been repositioned and its market competitiveness enhanced. See: 向新求变、向绿而生——青海创安以改脱困的启示 [Seeking innovation and green development: enlightenment from Qinghai's efforts to create a safe and secure environment and escape poverty].

Legal Victory in Sapporo

Sep 23, 2024

The Sapporo District Court, Japan on September 20, 2014 ordered compensation of ¥ 250 million yen (US$1.7m) to be paid by five companies which had manufactured asbestos-containing building products to 34 former workers and/or bereaved families. The defendants were: Nichias and Taiheiyo Cement, both in Tokyo, A&A Materials in Yokohama City and Nozawa in Kobe City. All the claims related to asbestos exposures experienced at construction sites. See: 建設現場で石綿、5社に2億5000万円賠償命令　札幌地裁 [Sapporo District Court orders five companies to pay 250 million yen in compensation for asbestos found at construction sites].

Asbestos Warning!

Sep 17, 2024

The continued use of asbestos in Sri Lanka, which had issued national asbestos prohibitions in 2018, continues to endanger the lives of all its citizens. The ban was postponed after intensive economic pressure from Russia, the country which continues to be the main asbestos supplier to Sri Lanka. The findings of research contained in this year’s “Asbestos Investigation Report in Sri Lanka,” supported calls by medical, scientific and environmental experts for an immediate asbestos ban to protect the lives of all Sri Lankans. See: අපේ රටෙත් තැන තැන ඇස්බැස්ටස් දූෂක කාරක [Asbestos pollutants are everywhere in our country!].

Insufficient Progress in Asbestos Eradication

Sep 12, 2024

On September 6, 2024, Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology published the results of a survey on the use of asbestos-containing insulation materials in school buildings and other facilities. Since the inspections undertaken 5 years ago, 2/3 of the structures, 72 in total, still contained deteriorated or damaged asbestos-containing insulation. Details of the investigation results were published on the Ministry's website. See: 学校施設のアスベスト、劣化・損傷する保温材72機関が保有…文科省 [Asbestos in school facilities, insulation material that deteriorates and is damaged, owned by 72 institutions…Ministry of Education].

Asbestos Mismanagement in Busan

Sep 12, 2024

A spokesperson for the Municipal Audit Committee in Busan, Korea announced on September 8, 2024 that asbestos surveys undertaken at 135 public buildings managed by Busan City and 16 districts and counties over a 40-day period last spring had found multiple examples of hazardous conditions. The inspectors discovered that many public buildings had not been properly assessed for the risk of asbestos contamination and that many of them still contained friable material. As a result of these unsatisfactory findings, the asbestos management system was being “comprehensively reorganized.” See: “암에 걸릴 수도 있는데…” 부산시 공공 석면 건축물 관리 부실 [“You could get cancer…” Poor management of public asbestos [containing] buildings in Busan].

Mesothelioma Session in Okayama

Sep 12, 2024

On September 29, 2024, a coalition of civil society stakeholders, including the Japan Asbestos & Mesothelioma Society and the medical oncology department at Okayama University Hospital, is holding a seminar on the medical treatment of mesothelioma patients. The event will take place at the Convention Center, Okayama City, Japan. The program will feature presentations by Shinichi Fujimoto, vice president of the Society, and Dr. Tei Goto of the National Rare Cancer Center who will talk about new mesothelioma treatments. Information will also be made available about a Kansai-based mesothelioma patient group. See: 「中皮腫」治療テーマにセミナー　２９日、岡山 [Seminar on the theme of “mesothelioma” treatment 29th, Okayama, Japan].

Ban Asbestos Now!

Sep 10, 2024

Last week, a representative from the Building and Wood Workers Trade Union Federation of Cambodia (BWTUC) appealed to the Ministry of Labour to introduce regulations to restrict and prevent the use of asbestos, an acknowledged carcinogen, in construction materials, to protect occupational health. According to the BWTUC President Sok Kin, long-term exposure to asbestos impacts people’s health and causes health problems, such as asbestosis and lung cancer. The BWTUC, said Sok Kin, is happy to partner with the government in efforts to raise asbestos awareness among workers. See: Building union asks Labour Ministry to act on asbestos.

Addressing the Lung Cancer Epidemic

Sep 6, 2024

The announcement that Liu Qian – a famous magician in China – contracted lung cancer generated a lot of media coverage last week. Having been diagnosed early, Liu Qian had an operation and gave up smoking. Many of the articles about his diagnosis highlighted famous people who also died of lung cancer. The article cited below included a description of the types and stages of lung cancer, available treatments as well as main risk factors including: smoking, air pollution, secondhand smoke, and exposure to chemicals such as chromium and asbestos. See: 48岁刘谦自曝罹患肺腺癌引热议，如何预防中国第一大癌? [48-year-old Liu Qian's self-exposure of lung adenocarcinoma has caused heated discussions, how to prevent China's first major cancer?].

Support for Asbestos Eradication

Sep 6, 2024

Mayor Lee Jae-joon of Suwon City, South Korea is urging local people to apply for civic grants to remove asbestos roofing and other asbestos material from privately-owned buildings. Available funding will cover the entire refurbishment cost for “'priority support households” and other vulnerable groups with smaller sums being allocated to other households. Building owners must apply in person at the Saebit Civil Complaint Office which is on the first floor of Suwon City Hall. See: 슬레이트 철거 지붕개량 지원.. 수원시, 신청 접수 [Slate demolition roof improvement support.. Suwon, application reception].

Talc Health Warning

Sep 2, 2024

A warning from thoracic surgeon Chen Jinxing alerted women in China to the health hazard posed by the use of asbestos-containing talc-based cosmetic products. Dr Jinxing, who is the director of the Department of Surgery of National Taiwan University Hospital, explained that exposure to asbestos can cause lung cancer, ovarian cancer and malignant endometrial cancer and suggested that consumers do not choose “cheap powdered cosmetics, and remove makeup as soon as possible.” See: 女性不抽菸仍罹肺癌台大医示警：化妆品也有风险 [Women who don't smoke still suffer from lung cancer National Taiwan University doctor warns: cosmetics also have risks].

E-commerce and Asbestos

Sep 2, 2024

Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare issued a warning on August 29 regarding the availability of asbestos-containing products from online retail outlets. Although products containing 0.1% or more of asbestos are prohibited from being manufactured, imported, or sold under the Industrial Safety and Health Act, items – such as ZHANGXINWEN's Ceramic Wire Mesh, HanaHaul's Ceramic Wire Mesh, Asbestos Wire Mesh (8 pieces) – can be purchased online. See: 厚労省、ECモールへ出品のアスベスト使用製品に注意喚起…主要ECモールに確認を要請 [The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare warns of asbestos-using products listed in EC malls ... Requests confirmation from major e-commerce malls].

Support & Information for Cancer Sufferers

Sep 2, 2024

On the afternoon of September 1, 2024, members of the Hokuriku Branch of the Mesothelioma and Asbestos Disease Patients and Families Association held a consultation and information session in Kanazawa City to examine the ongoing consequences of the 7.5 magnitude January 1, 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake. Mesothelioma sufferer Akira Oshima, from Kahoku City, Ishikawa Prefecture, gave a presentation during which he shared his experience. See: 「石綿に理解深めて」震災がれきで被害懸念支援団体が相談・交流会 [“Deepen your understanding of asbestos” Concerned about damage caused by earthquake rubble support groups hold consultations and exchange meetings].

Avoiding Asbestos Exposures

Sep 2, 2024

The curious article cited below underscored the hazard posed by handling asbestos-containing automotive products. The author failed to mention the availability of asbestos-free alternatives. Highlighting the recommended training, procedures and equipment, “including but not limited to protective masks, protective clothing, protective gloves and goggles,” for handling these products, the author concluded that: “strict adherence to safety measures is not only a protection for the health of personnel, but also a responsibility for the environment.” See: 处理石棉材料时应采取哪些安全措施？这些措施有哪些环保意义? [What safety measures should be taken when handling asbestos materials? What are the environmental implications of these measures?].

Asbestos Alert over Cancer Spike

Aug 21, 2024

The article cited below which appeared on a news portal in China on August 18, postulated four explanations for the elevated cancer risk in males. The second reason given was: “Occupational exposure: Men are more likely to engage in some high-risk occupations, such as construction, chemical, mining and other industries, and may be exposed to harmful substances, such as asbestos, benzene and other carcinogenic chemicals, increasing the risk of cancer.” China is both one of the world’s largest asbestos-producing and asbestos consuming countries. See: 癌症较容易找上男性！医生揭4大原因 [Cancer is more likely to strike men! Doctors reveal 4 reasons].

Asbestos Removal at Development Site

Aug 16, 2024

Asbestos removal work has begun on the site of what will become the Hyundai Gwangju shopping mall, a 300-room luxury hotel and 4,186 apartments in the South Korean city of Gwangju. According to the work schedule, the current plans says that demolition work of the old textile factory currently occupying the site is due to commence in March 2025. Massive amounts of asbestos were used in the ceilings, roofing and partition walls of the old factory’s buildings. See: 더현대 광주’ 들어서는 전남일신 방직공장 철거 시작 [The Hyundai Gwangju begins demolition of Jeonnam Ilshin Textile Factory].

Another Construction Lawsuit

Aug 12, 2024

On August 8, 2024 a class-action lawsuit was filed in Sapporo District Court, Japan by eight former workers and/or bereaved families seeking damages of 150 million yen (US$1m) from four companies. It was alleged that the defendants manufactured and supplied asbestos-containing construction material to worksites where hazardous exposures occurred from the 1950s. As a result, workers contracted deadly asbestos-related diseases including mesothelioma and lung cancer. See: 建設現場の石綿被害　集団訴訟で元労働者ら８人が追加提訴　建材メーカー４社に１億５千万円賠償求める　札幌地裁 [Eight former workers file additional lawsuit over asbestos damage at construction sites, seeking 150 million yen in damages from four building material manufacturers].

Asbestos Removal from Schools

Aug 5, 2024

It was announced last week by officials from Cheongdo-gun County in South Korea’s North Gyeongsang Province that special guidance will be given and inspections done on schools where asbestos removal work had been carried out to ensure that the buildings are safe for use by children and staff. Eradication work is often undertaken during the summer school holidays and the advisors from Qingdao County will provide on-site guidance and assessments to monitor compliance with mandatory guidelines and asbestos health and safety regulations. See: 청도군, 석면해체․제거 특별 지도점검 실시 [Cheongdo-gun, special guidance inspection for asbestos removal and demolition].

Asbestos Eradication from Schools

Aug 2, 2024

The Office of Education, in the South Korean Province of Chungcheongbuk, which has the third highest rate of asbestos-contaminated schools in the country, reported that it is on course to remediate the asbestos hazard in all the schools in North Chungcheong Province by 2026. The current rate of asbestos removal at schools in the province is significantly higher than the national average. By the end of 2024, the majority of the schools will be asbestos-free. See: 충북교육청, 2026년까지 학교 석면 모두 없앤다 [Chungbuk Office of Education “100% removal of asbestos in schools by 2026”].

Scary New Data

Aug 2, 2024

A rehash of a story uploaded last week included a very worrying addition. The news first reported on July 24, 2024 about the expansion of China’s asbestos export markets in Asia detailed the first ever shipments of chrysotile (white) asbestos from Gansu Province to Tajikistan. A similar text uploaded on August 1, 2024 added the following information: “According to statistics, in the first half of the year, Dunhuang Airport Customs supervised the export of more than 8,000 tons of chrysotile asbestos from local enterprises, showing a continuous growth trend.” See: 甘肃省温石棉首次出口中亚国家 [Chrysotile asbestos from Gansu Province is exported to Central Asian countries for the first time].

Toxic Thermoses

Jul 30, 2024

An information warning about the potential hazard posed by the use of asbestos-containing thermos flasks was uploaded on July 27, 2024 to a Vietnam news portal. According to the China Quality and Inspection Testing Institute many thermos bottles when inspected by experts were found to contain asbestos fibers. Consumers were advised to buy top quality products and follow all upkeep and use instructions. Damaged thermos flasks should be discarded. See: Tại sao ngày càng nhiều người tẩy chay bình giữ nhiệt? Sử dụng bình giữ nhiệt có tăng nguy cơ ung thư? [Why are more and more people boycotting thermos bottles? Does using thermos bottles increase the risk of cancer?].

Asbestos Contamination & Renovation Work

Jul 30, 2024

Long after many industrialized countries banned asbestos, Japan continued to import and install asbestos-containing material. As a result, property owners are faced with the legacy of this toxic material in their buildings. Considering the complexity of mandatory guidelines and laws in Japan regarding asbestos removal work, individuals are advised to employ specialist firms to eradicate the hazard. One such firm is inviting the public to a renovation trade fair in Tokyo next week. See: アスベストの事前調査から解体作業、廃棄物の収集、輸送、処分まで包括的なサポートを提供します [Integrated support from preliminary asbestos survey to demolition work, collection, transportation and treatment of waste].

Call for Asbestos Ban

Jul 25, 2024

On July 22, 2024, the Consumers’ Association of Penang conveyed a 15-page Memorandum to the Prime Minister and other government ministers calling for asbestos use to be banned comprehensively throughout the country. Citing evidence from the World Health Organization, the International Labor Organization, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, the Asian Ban Asbestos Network and the International Ban Asbestos Secretariat, the memorandum concluded: “Malaysia should have banned asbestos a long time ago. We cannot wait any longer and sacrifice more lives.” See: Call for Outright Ban on Asbestos.

Green Future: No Place for Asbestos

Jul 25, 2024

The commentary cited below was about the growing popularity of green technologies, especially in the construction industry. The author highlighted the hazard posed by the incorporation of asbestos into building products saying: “in a number of countries, asbestos is banned in construction, as it is considered a harmful material.” Although nothing was said specifically about the need to outlaw asbestos, it was clear from the tone of the article that the author felt that the use of this toxic substance was contrary to the fulfillment of Azerbaijan's green priorities. See: Больше, чем тренд [More than a trend].

Expanding Asbestos Exports to Asia

Jul 25, 2024

On July 22, 2024 a train carrying six containers of 120 tons of chrysotile (white) asbestos left Dunhuang, Gansu Province, China en route to Tajikistan. This was the first time that Gansu chrysotile asbestos was exported to a Central Asian country. In the past, China consumed almost all the asbestos it mined. It seems that the creation of additional transport routes is encouraging producers to expand overseas markets. Considering that asbestos regulations in most Central Asian countries are either non-existent or unenforced, this development is of serious concern. See: 甘肃温石棉首次出口塔吉克斯坦 [Gansu chrysotile asbestos was exported to Tajikistan for the first time].

Deadly Earthquake Legacy

Jul 23, 2024

On July 21, 2024, it was announced that a 6th worker had been certified by the Kobe Nishi Labor Standards Inspection Office as having a work-related injury after contracting the signature asbestos cancer mesothelioma having been exposed to asbestos during clean-up work following the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. The injured man who is 67 years old, was born in Amagasaki City, but now lives in the Hanshin area. Commenting on his experience after the disaster, the cancer sufferer said: “There were many people who did similar work in the disaster areas, so there are probably even more patients.” See: 阪神・淡路被災地：震災によるアスベスト被害 [Hanshin-Awaji disaster area: Asbestos damage caused by the earthquake].

Asbestos in Schools

Jul 23, 2024

An updated list of schools which still contain asbestos material was released at a press conference by a coalition of civil society groups in Busan, Korea on July 18, 2024. According to the new information, out of 12,058 elementary, middle, and high schools in South Korea, 2,925 still contain asbestos; in other words, 1 out of 4 schools are still contaminated despite the nationwide asbestos removal program and a deadline of 2027 for the eradication of all asbestos in schools. The regions with the highest number of toxic schools are: Gyeonggi (767), Seoul (422), Gyeongnam (347), Gyeongbuk (264) and Jeonnam (260). See: 전국 초중고 '석면학교' 2925곳 명단 공개 [A list of 2,925 elementary, middle, and high ‘asbestos schools’ nationwide released].

Lung Cancer in Non-Smokers

Jul 17, 2024

The article cited below, which was uploaded on July 8 2024, referenced new data published in The Lancet which revealed that: “a ‘substantial portion’ of lung cancer patients in India are those who do not smoke.” In 2020, there were 72,510 new cases of lung cancer diagnosed and 66,279 deaths according to research by doctors from the Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai. Exposure to asbestos was listed as one of the causes of the high rates of lung cancer in India, along with environmental and air pollution, exposures to chromium, cadmium, arsenic and coal, and second-hand smoke. See: Most of India's lung cancer cases are linked to non-smokers. Here's why.

Mesothelioma Victim Sues the Government

Jul 17, 2024

A precedent was set on July 9, 2024 when a mesothelioma sufferer, who had been employed at a textile factory in Uji City, sued the government for failing to protect him in a lawsuit being heard in Kyoto District Court. Between 1969 and 1979, the worker had been tasked with handling burlap bags containing asbestos which was fed into the production line for the manufacture of heat insulation products. As a result of workplace exposures, he contracted the asbestos cancer, mesothelioma. See: ユニチカ工場で石綿暴露　宇治市の元労働者が救済求め提訴　中皮腫発症し今年３月に労災認定 [Asbestos exposure at Unitika factory. Former worker with mesothelioma in Uji City sues for relief and [exposure] is certified as a worker's accident in March this year].

Asbestos Removal in Schools

Jul 17, 2024

The Office of Education in Chungnam City, Korea is implementing plans to remove asbestos from selected schools during the 2024 summer school holidays. On July 12th, attendees at a training session for individuals tasked with monitoring this work were informed that asbestos removal work would be undertaken in 37 schools. Among the team of monitors are: school principals or vice-principles, asbestos building safety managers, parents, members of civic groups, on-site representatives of asbestos dismantling and removal companies, and construction supervisors. See: 충남교육청, 여름방학 학교 석면해체·제거 감시단 교육 [Chungnam Office of Education, summer vacation school asbestos dismantling and removal monitoring group training].

Landmark Ruling for Bereaved

Jul 16, 2024

Last week, the Kobe District Court ordered the Japanese Government to pay 11,000 yen (US$70) to the family of a man who died from asbestos cancer because the Labor Standards Department had illegally destroyed records documenting his toxic exposure. It is believed that this is the first time that a punishment has been handed down for the mistaken disposal of public documents. See:「父も労災記録も戻ってこない」アスベスト吸い込み死亡の男性　労基署が記録廃棄　国に賠償命じる判決 [“Neither my father nor the records of his work-related accident were returned” - Man dies after inhaling asbestos; Labor Standards Office destroys records; court orders government to pay compensation].

Asbestos: Australia vs Indonesia

Jul 11, 2024

When comparing asbestos policies in Australia and Indonesia, author Gwyn Roberts pointed out that in the 1980s there was a divergence of attitude by the countries, finalizing in asbestos being banned in Australia in 2003. In Indonesia, however, there is no prohibition on asbestos use and the country is the world’s 2nd largest importer. Ban asbestos mobilization is gaining traction and in March 2024 the Supreme Court mandated that asbestos-containing products sold in the country must carry health warnings. Lobbyists at the Chrysotile Information Center and elsewhere continue to spread industry reassurances that chrysotile asbestos is safe for humans to use despite the WHO, ILO and other international agencies categorizing chrysotile asbestos as a Group 1 carcinogen. See: Asbestos danger.

Asbestos Exports to Africa

Jul 9, 2024

On July 4, 2024, 50 tons of chrysotile asbestos departed by train from Dunhuang City – in China’s northwestern Gansu Province – to Tianjin Port, where the cargo will be sent by ship to Nigeria. This is the first time Gansu asbestos has been exported to Africa. As a result of streamlined customs procedures in Dunhuang, asbestos export markets have expanded in recent years to include Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand and Indonesia in Southeast Asia and Nigeria in Africa. The author of the text cited below predicted that the new system will facilitate a “growth in (asbestos) export volume.” See: 甘肃温石棉首次出口非洲 [Gansu chrysotile asbestos exported to Africa for the first time].

TV Exposé

Jul 9, 2024

A 25-minute documentary by Al Jazeera which was uploaded on July 4, 2024 reported the repercussions of the commercial exploitation of asbestos in India, the world’s largest asbestos-importing country. Interviews with British barrister Krishnendu Mukherjee, trade union leader Rajkamal Tewary, local politicians, asbestos industry workers, family members and campaigners revealed the ongoing human misery being caused by occupational and environmental asbestos exposures. Footage shot of young men, with no masks or protective equipment, shovelling asbestos-containing mining debris into sacks for use on building sites was truly shocking. See: Asbestos: The toxic mineral endangering millions in India.

Logistical Links: Update

Jul 4, 2024

The article cited below described the effectiveness of measures being implemented to further trade between Kazakhstan and countries in Asa including new and improved trade links and bilateral trade agreements between China and Kazakhstan. Shipments of chrysotile asbestos fiber are among the exports being shipped from Kazakhstan to China and from China to other countries in central Asia. See: “一带一路”为中亚农产品和矿产品提供出海便利 [The Belt and Road Initiative provides convenience for Central Asian agricultural products and mineral products to go overseas].

Remembering the Kubota Shock

Jul 4, 2024

The 19th anniversary of Japan’s “Kubota Shock” – the description given to the seismic realization that the country was being decimated by an epidemic of asbestos mortality – was marked by an event on June 29th in Amagasaki City, Hyogo Prefecture. Up to that date, hundreds of employees and local people had suffered from exposures to asbestos liberated by the operations of the Kubota company’s Kanzaki Plant. According to a municipal spokesperson, asbestos exposures create a “silent time bomb” because it takes a long time for the toxic dust to affect health. See: 周辺住民の被害422人　クボタショック19年　尼崎の集会で報告 [422 people affected by the Kubota shock 19 years ago reports Amagasaki meeting].

Asbestos Alert

Jul 4, 2024

The article cited below which was uploaded to a news portal in Kazakhstan reported the closure of a historic German building due to asbestos contamination. Reminding readers that: “In the 20th century, asbestos was used in construction as a refractory mineral…” the author concluded by pointing out that “by the 1990s, it turned out that it was extremely harmful to health and causes lung cancer.” In Kazakhstan, the world's 2nd biggest asbestos producer, the national asbestos agenda has been strictly controlled to prevent adverse information being circulated; whether this is a blip or a sign of a change in policy remains to be seen. See: Одну из крупнейших ратуш Германии закрыли: нашли токсичный материал [One of the largest town halls in Germany was closed: toxic material was found].

Victims’ Verdict in Fukoka

Jun 28, 2024

On June 27, 2024, the Fukuoka District Court ordered 5 building material producers from Kyushu island, Japan to pay compensation of 148 million yen (US$~922,000) to 65 injured asbestos claimants and/or surviving family members. In his ruling presiding judge Ueda Hiroyuki concluded that “it was possible for manufacturers who produced and sold building materials containing asbestos to predict that indoor construction workers would be exposed to dust. Therefore, the manufacturers had a duty to warn workers about the dangers and how to avoid them, but they did not.” See: 建設アスベスト訴訟５社に１億４８００万円賠償命令 [Construction asbestos lawsuit: Five companies ordered to pay 148 million yen in damages].

Outlook for Asbestos Sector

Jun 28, 2024

According to an independent credit rating agency (ICRA) in India, profits of manufacturers of asbestos-cement roofing are likely to achieve growth of up to 9% in 2025-26 after recovering from disruptions and price rises for Russian asbestos exports in 2022-24 caused by the war on Ukraine. The ICRA analysis of market conditions concluded as follows: “The key players are moving towards de-risking their business profiles by entering non-asbestos segments due to regulatory risks associated with the threat of a ban on the usage of these products and on the mining of asbestos in the producing countries.” See: Asbestos-based roofing players’ PBIT margins likely at 8-9% in FY25 and FY26, margins to slide in FY22-24 on Russia-Ukraine conflict, supply chain disruptions.

Asbestos Waste: Civic Nightmare

Jun 28, 2024

Residents of Pocheon City, South Korea are becoming increasingly concerned about the hazard posed by illegally dumped asbestos waste at a landfill facility. The failure of the authorities to take action was criticized by local people. In response, an official of the Environmental Guidance Division said that officials were “promptly investigating the illegally buried pieces of asbestos slate. Through on-site verification and detailed analysis, we plan to determine the exact amount of landfill and impact, and take necessary measures.” See: [단독]포천시 불법 매립지, 유해 석면 방치… 환경 당국의 늑장 대응에 주민 불안 가중 [Exclusive. Illegal landfill in Pocheon City, neglect of harmful asbestos… Delayed response from environmental authorities increases anxiety among residents].

New Asbestos Data

Jun 26, 2024

According to data released on June 19, 2024 by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, there were 1,170 worker’s accident claims caused by asbestos recognized in 2023; this was 91 cases more than in the previous year. Amongst the diseases acknowledged were: 642 cases of mesothelioma and 433 lung cancers. Toxic exposures in the construction industry accounted for 65.2% of the total whilst 28.8% were due to exposures in the manufacturing industry. See: 石綿労災、２３年度は１１７０件認定　前年度比９１件増、厚労省まとめ [Asbestos worker's accident certified in FY23 1,170 cases, an increase of 91 cases from the previous year, Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare summary].

Asbestos Risk to Construction Workers

Jun 19, 2024

The paper cited below was published in the May 2024 issue of the Indonesian Journal of Medical Sciences. The aim of the study undertaken by the five Indonesian co-authors was to better understand the danger posed by asbestos exposures to construction workers, in order to find measures to minimize the hazards. “The construction sector has,” they concluded “the highest exposure to asbestos compared to other sectors or industries and has a high number of asbestosis cases.” Recommendations made included the provision of state-of-the-art personal protective equipment and the implementation of a health and safety regime with checks on workers’ health and worksite inspections by health and safety specialists. See: Occupational Asbestos-containing Materials Exposure and Risk of Asbestosis among Construction Workers.

Asbestos-Free Schools by 2026

Jun 18, 2024

On June 13, 2024, the Gyeonggi Provincial Department of Education in South Korea announced that it was on track to eradicate the asbestos hazard from all its schools by 2026. In 2024, the Department Office of Education invested 136.5 billion won (US $99.3m) for the asbestos removal project in 199 schools. Responding to criticism that the expertise of asbestos monitors in schools was inadequate, additional professional training will be provided to strengthen the competency of asbestos staff at the Education Support Agency. See: 경기도교육청, 학교 석면 제거 2026년까지 완료 목표 [Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education aims to complete asbestos removal in schools by 2026].

Post-Disaster Asbestos Legacy

Jun 18, 2024

Almost thirty years after the Great Hanshin Earthquake devastated the Hanshin region of Japan, doctors speaking at a June 12th press conference at the Hyogo Prefectural Health Insurance Medical Association expressed concerns about the increasing incidence of asbestos-related diseases amongst earthquake survivors in the decades to come. Forty percent of medical professionals consulted for a survey by the Hyogo Medical Association agreed that the number of victims will increase in the future due to the asbestos scattered during and after the disaster. See: 阪神大震災で石綿被害｢今後増加｣4割　発生30年で医師ら [40% of doctors believe asbestos damage from the Great Hanshin Earthquake "will increase in the future," 30 years after occurrence].

Seller Beware!

Jun 14, 2024

At the June 6, 2024 meeting of Choshi City Council, Japan, the council unanimously approved a supplementary budget that allocated 12.96 million yen (~US$82,000) in reparations and other expenses for the company which in 2019 purchased the land and three-story building formerly used by the Fire Department. By selling this asbestos-containing property to the company without prior notification of the asbestos present, the council had breached its duty of disclosure. See: アスベスト使用の旧庁舎売却は説明義務違反　銚子市が損賠に同意 [Choshi City agrees to compensation for damages due to breach of duty of disclosure in sale of former government building containing asbestos].

Environmental Asbestos Hazard

Jun 12, 2024

Data from a 2023 asbestos health impact survey revealed that the number of local people who experienced adverse health effects as a result of exposure to asbestos liberated by the operations of a small shipyard repair facility in Tongyeong City is increasing. Of 150 people examined last year by staff from the Asbestos Environmental Conservation Center of Yangsan Pusan National University Hospital, twelve were recognized as asbestos victims. Asbestos victims are able to obtain benefits from the city for their injuries. See: 통영 소형 조선소 인근 석면 피해주민 증가…지난해 12명 확인 [Last year's Resident Health Impact Survey].

Asbestos Ban in Capital City

Jun 10, 2024

Last week, it was reported that the Jakarta Provincial Health Office had prohibited the use of asbestos material in domestic properties on the grounds of public safety. Speaking on behalf of the authority, Dwi Oktavia confirmed that the ban had been adopted to prevent potentially carcinogenic exposures occurring. The Director of an Indonesian NGO – Local Initiative OHS Network – applauded the position and stressed that after a major Supreme Court decision stipulating that hazard warnings be placed on all asbestos products, more action needed to be taken to implement these landmark decisions. See: New asbestos ban: Jakarta Health Office prohibits the killer dust for resident safety.

Supreme Court Victory

Jun 4, 2024

The May 31, 2024 blog cited below issued by the Indonesian NGO LION [Local Initiative for Occupational Safety and Health Network] discussed the implications of a recent Supreme Court decision supporting the right of citizens to have prior warning before using asbestos-containing materials. The ruling was a huge victory for campaigners as it accepted that asbestos was a toxic material which should be clearly labelled to protect workers and members of the public. Concluding the blog, the author noted that the decision provided: “legal legitimacy and strong support for the [ban asbestos] movement” in Indonesia. See: Konsumen Melawan Asbes, Kemenangan Penting Dalam Perlindungan Kesehatan Masyarakat [Consumers Fight Asbestos, an Important Victory in Protecting Public Health].

Addressing the Asbestos Legacy

Jun 4, 2024

In a recent interview with reporter Hamidur Rahman, Bangladeshi Occupational Medicine specialist Dr Mahmud Hossain Faruquee spoke of the difficulties in both Bangladesh and India of identifying people with asbestos-related diseases. However, the expert noted, the absence of evidence was not evidence of absence and more work needed to be done to increase medical capacity, build treatment facilities and create support networks for the “invisible” asbestos victims and their families. Faruquee highlighted the negative influence of commercial vested interests, including the International Chrysotile Association, in protecting the status quo. See: Health rules must be maintained when using Asbestos: Expert.

Call to Ban Asbestos!

Jun 4, 2024

A remarkable article uploaded on May 31, 2024 on China's leading health portal – 39.health – called for an immediate and comprehensive asbestos ban. Upon further research it transpired that the article was on a site based in Taiwan which explained why the author was brazen enough to be so outspoken. China is one of the world’s leading asbestos producing and using countries. The text quoted the views of Dr. Chen Tianhui and his team from the Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, all of whom supported the need for asbestos bans in developing countries. See: “是时候全面禁用石棉了！”超级致癌物石棉，就藏在你身边 [“It's time for a total ban on asbestos!” Asbestos, a super carcinogen, is hiding right next to you].

Asbestos Profits: Update

Jun 4, 2024

On May 31, 2024, an Indian asbestos company reported a significant rise in profits compared to 2023 figures: since 1973, U.P. Asbestos Ltd. has been a manufacturer of asbestos-cement building products. The company currently has production facilities at Mohanlalganj, Lucknow and at Dadri, Gautam Budh Nagar. India is the world’s largest asbestos importing and using country. According to a 2023 research paper: “Each asbestos-cement sheet that is produced and utilized poses a significant risk of disease throughout its entire life cycle, from mining and processing to installation, demolition and disposal. All those involved in these processes face a significant risk of exposure.” See: U.P. Asbestos standalone net profit rises 30.26% in the March 2024 quarter.

New Asbestos Class-Action

May 30, 2024

A class-action asbestos lawsuit has been filed in the Osaka District Court by shipyard workers against the Japanese Government. The claimants include one asbestos victim and the families of seven others who died from asbestos-related diseases. Although the Government implemented a benefit system to compensate construction workers injured by asbestos after a Supreme Court ruling, shipyard workers are not eligible under the scheme as it now stands. The first shipyard lawsuit was filed in February 2023. See: 造船作業中に「アスベスト」吸い込み健康被害　国に賠償を求め追加提訴 [Inhalation of “asbestos” during shipbuilding work and health damage. Additional lawsuit filed against the government for compensation].

Municipal Asbestos Program

May 30, 2024

The authorities in Imsil County in central South Jeolla Province, South Korea are continuing efforts to protect the population from hazardous asbestos exposures. In May 2024, work is proceeding on the compilation of an asbestos management map; asbestos inspections of 27 public buildings, including universities, daycare centers, hospitals, are also being carried out. Fines will be issued for infringements of asbestos building management standards in accordance with the Asbestos Safety Management Act. See: 임실군, 석면으로부터 안전한 생활환경 조성 [Imsil-gun creates a living environment safe from asbestos].

Asbestos at Shipbreaking Yards

May 28, 2024

A new 24-minute video by Human Rights Watch documented the horrendous conditions experienced by shipbreaking workers in Bangladesh among which were routine exposures to asbestos. According to one of the experts interviewed, most of the ships at the breaking yards contain asbestos; the workers have no protective equipment or clothing to protect themselves, and work barefoot and without masks. The liberated asbestos fibers go into the environment and the ecosystem posing a threat to the health of local people as well as wildlife. Furthermore, there is no downstream management of toxic waste. See: Shipbreaking: The Most Dangerous Job in the World.

Government Support for Asbestos Industry

May 28, 2024

The article cited below, which was uploaded on May 22, 2024, contrasted the banning of asbestos in the US with the expansion of the asbestos industry in India. Ignoring health warnings from international agencies and institutions, the Government of India is taking steps to “encourage production and usage of asbestos or fibre cement based products in the country…” Even before the new measures were implemented, India was the world’s largest importer and consumer of asbestos. A 2019 study by researchers at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research predicted that half a million people would die of asbestos cancer in India over the next 40 years. See: India tweak norms to boost asbestos production; 70 countries ban it.

Increasing Asbestos Consumption

May 24, 2024

The use of asbestos, a designated carcinogen, is increasing in Bangladesh, where asbestos-cement roofing is a popular product. There is little awareness of the asbestos hazard amongst consumers, workers or officials. Under these conditions, the asbestos industry in Bangladesh is flourishing; it is worth Tk 260cr (US$ 22.20 million). The long latency period for asbestos-related illnesses has created a “silent epidemic” of debilitating and deadly diseases with no deaths being attributed to asbestos cancer due to lack of medical capacity. See: Country’s annual revenue from asbestos use amounts to Tk 260cr.

Understanding Asbestos in 2024

May 24, 2024

The continuing presence of asbestos material in Japanese buildings remains an ongoing hazard to workers as well as members of the public. A timely reminder of the hazards of human exposures to asbestos were contained in the article cited below, which also included background information on the nature of asbestos fibers, the properties of the mineral and the uses to which it was put before national prohibitions were implemented. See [subscription site]: 粉じん吸って「がん」に　スベストによる健康被害、今も危険 [Breathing in the dust can cause cancer; health damage caused by asbestos remains dangerous].

Asbestos Hazard Rising

May 24, 2024

In a report issued on April 25, 2024 by Dr. David R. Boyd – UN Special Rapporteur on the human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment – the author highlighted the risk to the population in the Maldives of exposures to asbestos, an acknowledged carcinogen which is still legally used in the country. Asbestos is imported in large volumes for the production of asbestos-cement sheets despite the WHO’s warning that the use of asbestos should be stopped due to the cancer risk. Boyd recommended that the Government should enact a Hazardous Substances law and stop the import and use of all asbestos products. See: UN Expert: Maldives Stuck Between Rock and Hard Place on Climate Change Issue.

The Legacy of Asbestos Mining

May 24, 2024

In the run-up to World War II, work was accelerated to develop supplies of asbestos at Japanese mines. The history of one mine – the Kiyomi Asbestos Mine – was the subject of the article cited below. Describing the conditions, a former worker said: “The asbestos dust was unbearable. There were no masks. We sometimes put towels over our mouths and noses, but the dust would get in our throats, and we couldn't work without gargling every now and then.” A large number of Kiyomi workers have been diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases. See [subscription site]: 「ほこりが喉にたまった」劣悪な環境　知られざる石綿鉱山の被害 | 毎日新聞 [“Dust got stuck in my throat” - the poor working conditions and unknown damage caused by asbestos mine].

Call for Asbestos Ban

May 24, 2024

A 2023 article in the Jurnal Biomedika Dan Kesehatan (Indonesia’s Journal of Biomedicine and Health) entitled “Occupational Asbestos Related Diseases in Indonesia: A Call for Urgent Action and Awareness” highlighted the failure of Indonesia to ban asbestos despite the known risk of debilitating and fatal diseases. “It is expected,” write the authors “that there should be hundreds to a thousand cases of asbestos-related disorders in Indonesia each year.” Recommendations made included a comprehensive ban, the use of safer materials, standardized medical surveillance for at-risk workers, and increased awareness and cooperation amongst stakeholders to eradicate asbestos-related diseases in Indonesia. See: Occupational Asbestos Related Diseases in Indonesia: A Call for Urgent Action and Awareness.

Asbestos Support in Cheonan

May 21, 2024

On May 16, 2024, the Asbestos Environmental Health Center of Cheonan Hospital, announced that it had received approval from Korea’s Ministry of Environment to continue its asbestos support program until May 2027. In 2009, the center was designated to conduct health impact surveys on individuals at risk of contracting asbestos-related diseases, including people who lived near: asbestos mines, asbestos-using factories, shipyard repair facilities and areas with a high density of asbestos-cement roofing. Out of 6,200 individuals examined, almost 3,000 were classed as victims and potential asbestos victims. See: 순천향대천안병원 석면환경보건센터, 2027년까지 사업 연장 [Soonchunhyang University Cheonan Hospital Asbestos Environmental Health Center extends business until 2027].

Accessing Asbestos Benefits

May 14, 2024

Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare last month sent information on the “Special Survivor Benefit System” to 3,012 families of people who died from mesothelioma, notifying them that they were eligible to apply for benefits under the Workers’ Accident Compensation Insurance Act. There is, however, a five-year statute of limitations. If this has expired, a bereaved family may submit an “asbestos-related” claim if the deceased’s illness was caused by toxic exposures at work. See: 中皮腫により亡くなられた方のご遺族に「特別遺族給付金制度」などの案内文を送付しました [We sent information on the “Special Survivor Benefit System” to the families of people who died from mesothelioma].

Healing Camp in Arboretum

May 7, 2024

Since 2015, staff from South Chungcheong Province have held 22 Healing Camps for 1,000 asbestos victims and their families. This year’s camp was held in early May at Cheonripo Arboretum in Taean County, South Korea. The purpose of the activities were to foster the psychological well-being of the injured and their relatives using a variety of techniques and experiences. According to Director Koo Sang-do: “…the emotional healing program for victims is an important endeavour…We will do our best to alleviate the pain of the victims and their families….” See: 충남도, 석면피해자 힐링캠프 개최 [South Chungcheong Province holds healing camp for asbestos victims].

Asbestos Profits Falling

May 3, 2024

During a meeting on April 26, 2024 of the Vietnam Roofing Association, officials of the trade association bemoaned the harsh economic climate in which they were operating, saying that increased costs of chrysotile asbestos fiber and other raw materials were impacting on their companies’ bottom lines. In the face of growing support for a national asbestos ban, the Association was progressing outreach educational work to shore up demand for asbestos-cement building materials, the use of which, speakers said, was “safe.” See: Hội nghị thường niên Hiệp hội Tấm lợp Việt Nam năm 2024 [Vietnam Roofing Association Annual Meeting 2024].

Revising the Occupational Diseases List

May 3, 2024

Proposals are being considered by the Vietnamese Government to add 35 occupational diseases to the social insurance list – amongst the new diseases under consideration are: occupational silicosis; occupational asbestos pneumoconiosis; occupational mesothelioma; occupational talc pulmonary dust disease and occupational asthma. The Ministry of Health has requested that the Department of Health Environment Management coordinate the consultation with relevant agencies in order to prepare revised guidelines for the diagnosis of occupational diseases. See: Đề xuất 35 bệnh nghề nghiệp được hưởng bảo hiểm xã hội [Proposing 35 occupational diseases entitled to social insurance].

Victim’s Victory in Kumamoto

Apr 30, 2024

The Kumamoto District Court ordered defendant companies Japan Refrigeration and Amakusa Plant to pay 27.72 million yen (US$172,000) compensation to a 78-year old plaintiff who alleged that he had developed lung cancer as a result of workplace asbestos exposures. In its ruling, the Court agreed that the companies had neglected the duty of care they owed employees to ensure a safe working environment. The claimant was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2016. See: 作業中にアスベスト吸い肺がん、熊本地裁が２社に２７７２万円支払い命令…安全配慮義務違反を指摘 [Lung cancer from asbestos inhalation during work, Kumamoto District Court ordered two companies to pay 27.72 million yen ... Pointing out violations of duty of care].

Asbestos-Cement Roofing Decline

Apr 30, 2924

The article cited below contained an interview with Mr. Vo Quang Diem, Chairman of the Vietnam Roofing Association – a trade association representing the interests of manufacturers of roofing, including companies making products containing asbestos-cement (AC). Diem related the trials and tribulations of the Association’s members, including rising prices for raw materials, government uncertainties and fluctuating market conditions. Production of AC roofing was 18% down in 2023. Pressure is being put on the Prime Minister and the Government to rescind plans to phase out asbestos use to give certainty to industrialists so that they would invest in production facilities. See: Triển khai hiệu quả giải pháp ổn định thị trường phibro xi măng [Effectively deploy solution to stabilize the fibro cement market].

Asbestos Fallout from Russian War

Apr 23, 2024

Asbestos fibers were identified in each of the ten samples of building debris – including roofing materials, underground building materials and pipes from apartment buildings and schools in 4 locations in Kyiv and Kharkiv – analyzed by a Tokyo-based laboratory. Commenting on these findings, Professor Ken Takahashi said: “The results of this analysis serve as a basis for warning local workers and residents about asbestos and taking countermeasures. We also need to get international organizations and other organizations to recognize that the cost of countermeasures is necessary.” See: ウクライナの被害建物からアスベストを検出日本企業が分析 [Japanese company analyzes asbestos detected in damaged buildings in Ukraine].

Calls for Government Action on Ban

Apr 18, 2024

At an April 15, 2024 press conference organized by the Bangladesh Ban Asbestos Network (B-BAN) and Bangladesh Occupational Safety, Health and Environment Foundation (OSHE), held in the capital of Bangladesh, health and safety campaigners and technical experts urged the government to ban asbestos to “protect human health and the environment, as asbestos is a known carcinogen.” In his comments to the meeting, Aminur Rashid Chowdhury Repon, Executive Director of the OSHE Foundation, announced that chrysotile (white) asbestos fibers had been identified during recent laboratory analyses of cement sheeting and automotive brake shoes. See: Experts for banning asbestos in Bangladesh.

Mesothelioma Treatment Update

Apr 18, 2024

Under new provisions, which came into effect on April 1, 2024, some patients with unresectable malignant pleural mesothelioma can receive medical treatment using a new dual immunotherapy cocktail that has been shown to prolong life for many patients. As the care will be provided by the National Health Insurance, patients will not have to face costly medical bills. See: 石棉致癌潛伏期達40年惡性肋膜間皮瘤癌現生機 4/1起雙免疫治療納入一線給付 [Asbestos carcinogenesis has a latentcy period of up to 40 years. The incidence of malignant pleural mesothelioma cancer is increasing. Dual immunotherapy will be included in first-line benefits starting from 4/1].

Test Case for Asbestos Victim in Hashima

Apr 18, 2024

On April 15, 2024, a family launched a legal action to claim compensation for the 2018 asbestos cancer death of a 79-year old man who had worked near an asbestos processing factory owned by the Nichias company. The claimants argue that during the deceased’s 13 years employment at a Hashima workshop, he had breathed in asbestos liberated by the Nichias Hashima Plant in Gifu Prefecture. Under Japanese law, people can obtain compensation for contracting asbestos cancer if they lived near an asbestos factory. There is no such provision for people who worked near such a facility. See: 「石綿工場の近くで勤務」、中皮腫で死亡責任裁定、遺族が申請 [“Working near an asbestos factory,” died of mesothelioma liability ruling, bereaved family applies].

Warning about Asbestos Hazard

Apr 17, 2024

The article cited below from a source in China, reaffirms the carcinogenic nature of chrysotile asbestos, citing evidence from the WHO and IARC. The author emphasized the variety of asbestos products, warning that: “People who are exposed to asbestos for a long time can face serious health risks. Eventually, this underlying inflammation may evolve into serious diseases such as asbestosis, pleural mesothelioma, etc., and may even lead to the development of malignant tumors such as lung cancer.” China is the world’s 2nd largest asbestos user and 4th largest producer. See: 被60多国禁用的一级“致癌物”，1Kg含百万根尖针！为何我国随处可见 [A first-class “carcinogen” banned by more than 60 countries, 1kg contains millions of sharp needles! Why can it be seen everywhere in China?].

Asbestos Outreach Work: Update

Apr 15, 2024

The Asbestos Health Impact Survey in the South Korean Province of Gyeongsangnam-do is now in its fourth year of operations. Outreach work by staff members seeks to identify at-risk members of the public and provide check-ups by medical staff from the Asbestos Environmental Health Center at Yangsan Pusan National University Hospital. People who are eligible for the free screening include those who had lived within a 2km radius of asbestos exposure sources (asbestos factories, shipyards, repair yards, etc.) for more than one year or worked with asbestos or asbestos-containing material. See: 석면 피해 의심된다면, 늦기 전에 무료 석면건강영향조사 받으세요! [If you suspect asbestos harm, get a free asbestos health effects survey before it's too late!].

Asbestos Settlement for Kobe Plaintiffs

Mar 11, 2024

On March 6, 2024, a settlement was reached in the Kobe District Court between the Japanese government and relatives of a 78-year old self-employed electrician from Hyogo Prefecture who died from mesothelioma caused by exposure to asbestos at construction sites. The Government will pay a total of 14.3 million yen (US$97,200) in compensation to the three sister-in-laws of the deceased. See: アスベスト被害で男性死亡遺族と国が和解へ原告請求通り1430万円支払い神戸地裁 [A man dies due to asbestos damage The bereaved family to receive 14.3 million yen from the government as ordered by Kobe District Court].

Eradicating the Asbestos Hazard in Incheon

Mar 11, 2024

The municipal authorities of Incheon, a South Korean city bordering the capital of Seoul, are offering subsidies of 7 million won (US$5,320) to encourage property owners to commission specialist contractors to remove and replace asbestos-containing roofs and other products to protect the public from toxic exposures. The city has allocated 1,432 billion won (US$1.1m) for asbestos remediation of 333 houses, 33 non-residential buildings, etc. during the coming fiscal year. See: 인천시, 주택 슬레이트 철거 시 최대 700만 원 지원 [Incheon City supports up to 7 million won for demolition of house slate].

Encouraging Safe Removal of Asbestos

Mar 7, 2024

The Environmental Protection Department of the City of New Taipei, a special municipality located in northern Taiwan, announced last week plans to subsidize asbestos eradication work on domestic properties. Asbestos-containing debris is now listed as hazardous waste and must be dealt with according to mandatory protocols. Municipal funds have been allocated to encourage the safe disposal of this toxic material. Residents wishing to get rid of asbestos material in their homes have until October 31, 2024 to submit an application for funding. See: New Taipei Offers Subsidies for Asbestos Material Cleanup.

ABAN Meeting in Colombo

Mar 7, 2024

On March 3, 2024, members of the Asian Ban Asbestos Network (ABAN) – a coalition of grassroots groups and individuals which was founded in Hong Kong in 2009 – met in Colombo, Sri Lanka for the South Asia Strategy Meeting 2024. Speakers from Japan, Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Korea, India and Pakistan updated delegates on current struggles and developments in their countries, including the evolving role of victims’ campaigners, environmentalists, trade unionists, medical professionals and consumer groups. The session was co-organized by ABAN and the Centre for Environmental Justice, and co-sponsored by : IBAS, ANROEV, AMRC, Solidarity Center, and the OSHE Foundation. See: Picture of Colombo Meeting Banner.

Asbestos Fallout from January Earthquake

Mar 7, 2024

Several weeks after the January 1, 2024 earthquake hit the Noto Peninsula of Ishikawa Prefecture, Japanese citizens were reminded of the hazard posed by asbestos contamination created by natural and man-made disasters during a symposium in Okayama City convened by the Tokyo Occupational Safety and Health Center and the local Okayama Occupational Safety and Health Center. Members of the public in the affected area were warned to avoid demolition sites and wear specialist masks such as N95s to limit their inhalation of asbestos fibers. See: 災害とアスベスト　リスク知り対策の徹底を [Disasters and Asbestos Risks Awareness and Prevention].

Precautionary Approach to Cancer

Mar 5, 2024

Cancer mortality is skyrocketing in Vietnam according to the article cited below. The best health outcome for cancer patients is obtained as a result of early diagnoses of disease. Amongst the 12 cohorts of people urged to take preventive action listed in the article were those who had a history of exposure to potentially carcinogenic substances, such as asbestos, benzene, arsenic, etc. For individuals “with a history of prolonged exposure, or working in toxic environments, exposed to the above chemicals,” annual check-ups were recommended. See: 12 đối tượng cần đi khám sàng lọc định kỳ ung thư [12 cohorts who need routine cancer screening].

Asbestos at the Ship Scrapping Yards

Mar 4, 2024

Exposure to asbestos is just one workplace hazard that Bangladeshi workers experience during the dismantling of cargo ships, tankers and other vessels. After 30 years of such exposures at the Chittagong scrapyard in southern Bangladesh, 55-year old Fazlul Karim contracted an asbestos illness which has left him with a respiratory capacity of only 60%. Medical tests conducted in 2016 by an Indian doctor found that 35% of the 101 shipyard workers examined suffered from asbestosis due to hazardous occupational conditions. See: Bangladesh: L'amiante clandestin des navires occidentaux [Bangladesh: Clandestine asbestos from Western ships].

Removing Asbestos from Schools

Mar 4, 2024

On February 29, 2024, authorities from South Korea’s Jeonbuk Province announced plans to complete the removal of most asbestos from its schools by the end of the year (2024). For technical reasons, a small amount of asbestos-containing material will remain in place until 2025. Since 2019, the Metropolitan Office of Education invested 204 billion won (US$153m) to decontaminate the educational infrastructure. “The goal,” said a spokesperson from the Metropolitan Office of Education “is to achieve zero asbestos three years ahead of the 2027 target set by the Ministry of Education.” See: 전북 학교 석면 제거, 올해 사실상 완료…6년간 2천억 투입 [Asbestos removal from Jeonbuk schools was virtually completed this year… 200 billion invested over 6 years].

Eradication Subsidies in Jeongeup City

Feb 29, 2024

On February 27, 2024, the South Korea City of Jeongeup announced that it would subsidize the latest phase in the municipality’s asbestos eradication program with the allocation of 1.69 billion won (US$1.2m) to cover work on 465 buildings, including 424 houses, 10 non-domestic buildings (warehouses and barns) and the removal of 31 asbestos roofs. The maximum subsidy for eradication work on houses is 7 million won (US$5,200) per building; up to 5 million won (US$3,740) can be provided for the removal of asbestos-cement roofing. Concessions will be made for applications from socially vulnerable groups. See: 정읍시, 올해 석면 슬레이트 처리에 17억원 투입 [Jeongeup City to invest KRW 1.7 billion in asbestos slate treatment this year].

Prohibition of Toxic Landscaping Stones

Feb 26, 2024

Korea’s Ministry of Environment (MoE) banned sales of landscaping stones containing asbestos. Investigations established that out of 35 samples of landscaping stones from 10 companies, 17 contained asbestos. Commenting on this news, Hwang Kye-young, director of the MoE’s Environmental Health Bureau, said: “It is important to block landscaping stones at the initial sales (distribution) stage because they are difficult to remove after installation…We will make efforts to prevent damage to public health…by strengthening the management of asbestos-containing landscape stones through continuous fact-finding surveys.” See: 석면 함유 조경석 판매업체 관리 강화 [Strengthening the management of asbestos-containing landscape stone vendors].

Busan’s New Asbestos Eradication Program

Feb 23, 2024

Previous attempts by the city council to take steps to address the widespread presence of asbestos roofing in Busan, South Korea’s second biggest city, failed to quantify the amount and location of toxic material on unregistered and illegal buildings. On February 19, it was announced that for the first time all of the city’s 16 districts and counties would be mounting full-scale audits of all properties. For the first time, it will also be mandatory for investigators to identify buildings where asbestos roofing has been covered over. See: 부산 석면 무허가 건물 등 전수조사 [Complete investigation of unlicensed asbestos [containing] buildings in Busan].

Asbestos in Schools

Feb 21, 2024

The asbestos-related death of a Japanese science teacher was recognized this month as an occupationally-caused disease. Hideo Sando, who died from mesothelioma age 69, had handled asbestos during scientific experiments in the school’s laboratory. He had worked at a municipal elementary school in Wakayama, a city in western Japan from 1977 to 2013. He was diagnosed with mesothelioma in 2021 and died in 2022. This is the tenth case of an asbestos-related occupational disease to emerge among teachers in Japan. See: Death of Japan science teacher who handled asbestos recognized as on-job accident.

Great East Japan Earthquake 1995

Feb 21, 2024

Researchers studying the consequences of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake (1995) agree that with increasing latency – the time between asbestos exposure during the quake and now – the likelihood of at-risk people developing asbestos-related diseases continues to grow. As a result of damage done during the disaster, levels of airborne asbestos were 25 times the environmental standard. Between February and April 1995, buildings with 300 tons of sprayed asbestos were demolished. Five disaster clean-up workers have been certified with asbestos-related diseases. See:震災アスベスト、30年目の脅威を問う　長い潜伏期間、これからか顕在化か [Earthquake asbestos poses a threat after 30 years; will more cases emerge due to long incubation period?].

Rising Cancer Incidence

Feb 15, 2024

The article cited below expressed concerns over the increasing incidence of cancer amongst younger people. The author listed several factors which could explain this trend including: poor lifestyle choices, sedentary lifestyles, and exposures to environmental and occupational toxins such as asbestos. India is the world’s largest asbestos user, consuming 311,000 tonnes(t) in 2020, 408,000t in 2021 and 424,000t in 2022. Considering the synergistic effect of asbestos exposure and tobacco use – 45% cent of males are smokers – in the causation of cancers, disease rates will almost certainly continue to increase in India in the years to come. See: Understanding why cancer rates are rising among younger generations.

Asbestos in Bukchang Elementary School

Feb 15, 2024

Despite the high safety record achieved by Bukchang Elementary School in Dangjin, Chungcheongnam Province, South Korea, work on removing asbestos from the school continued during the 2023 winter school vacation. On February 8, 2024, a spokesperson for the school announced that it had obtained an award for having the highest safety certification for an educational facility. Commenting on the good news, Principal Park Chang-ok promised that the school authorities: “will continue to do our best to maintain a safe school environment for our students.” See: 충남 당진 북창초등학교, 교육시설안전인증 최우수 인증 획득 [Bukchang Elementary School in Dangjin, Chungcheongnam Province obtained the highest certification for educational facility safety certification].

Municipal Action on Asbestos

Feb 8, 2024

On February 5, 2024, it was announced that the Council of the South Korean city of Busan was consulting with stakeholders on plans for an asbestos survey program to address the widespread presence of asbestos roofing, much of which is found on unlicensed buildings, in the municipality. There are 22,000 asbestos-roofed structures in Busan and the Ministry of Environment has designated 346 areas of concern in the city including: Gamcheon Culture Village and White Yeoul Village, popular tourist destinations. See: 부산 석면건물 실태조사부터 하자” 시의회, 市에 제안 [“Let's start with the survey of asbestos buildings in Busan” City Council, proposal to the city].

Dumping Toxic Waste in Old Ships

Feb 6, 2024

New data from 2023, revealed that Bangladesh remained the world’s biggest dumping ground for end-of-life vessels. Workers on Chattogram beaches scrapped 170 out of the 446 ships dismantled last year. It is probable that most of the ships scrapped contained asbestos. There is little or no availability of protective clothing or equipment for people scrapping the toxic ships; none of the scrapyards in Chattogram is approved by the European Union. Ten percent of the steel for the country’s $6.5 billion steel re-rolling industry comes from the Bangladesh shipbreaking sector. See: Bangladesh Dumping ground for toxic ships.

Asbestos Eradication Program: Update

Feb 6, 2024

On February 5-9, 2024, the Gyeongbuk Office of Education – in South Korea’s North Gyeongsang Province – will mount a series of inspections at schools where asbestos eradication work is being carried out during the winter school holidays. The purpose of these inspections is to ensure that workers and members of the public are not exposed to asbestos during removal work on school buildings. Visits will be made to 8 out of 100 sites where removal work is ongoing. See: 경북교육, 꼼꼼한 석면 공사 현장 관리 실시 [Gyeongbuk Education, Meticulous Asbestos Construction Site Management].

Transitioning to Asbestos-Free Technology

Feb 2, 2024

Last year, representatives of 14 member nations – Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam – of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) signed a historic document committing them to work together to “prevent asbestos-related diseases and to promote transition from the use of asbestos to safer alternative products.” According to the IPEF website, one of the key objectives of the framework’s worker-centered trade agenda is to increase “regional and global labor and environmental standards.” The new IPEF consensus on asbestos is pivotal as the vast majority of annual asbestos consumption takes place in Asian countries. See: Blow to asbestos in Asia Pacific countries.

Asbestos Dichotomy in Alatau

Feb 2, 2024

The article cited below highlighted the government’s failure to deliver on development plans for a town called Alatau in southeastern Kazakhstan. Work on construction of the municipality was due to begin in 2009 and be completed in 2013. There is little evidence of how billions of tenges of public money was spent. Included in the schedule of works were three asbestos-cement projects to create 284 permanent jobs. The author of the article, who pointed out that the ILO and many national governments support an end to asbestos use, questioned the wisdom of investing in an outdated technology. See: Как проекты в новом казахстанском городе могут захлебнуться даже не начавшись [How projects in a new Kazakh city can be bogged down before they even begin].

Victim’s Verdict against Nichias

Feb 2, 2024

More than five years after a lawsuit had been filed by an 80-year-old retired worker from the Nichias Hashima Asbestos Plant, on January 31, 2024 Chief Judge Atsuko Matsuda at the Gifu District Court ruled that the claimant had “contracted pneumoconiosis as a result of work such as manufacturing [asbestos] insulation materials at the Hashima factory.” As the company had not taken steps to protect its workers, it was ordered to pay 14.3 million yen (US$97,500) compensation to the plaintiff. See: アスベスト製品の仕事に従事し“じん肺” 慰謝料を請求した訴訟原告勝訴の判決岐阜地裁 [Lawsuit for compensation for “pneumoconiosis” caused by working with asbestos products].

Shipyard Claims in Hokkaido

Jan 24, 2024

On January 17, 2024, two claimants filed a lawsuit at Sapporo District Court seeking a total of 28.6 million yen (US$193,175) in damages for asbestos exposures experienced at Japanese shipyards. The defendant was the government which, the plaintiffs argued, had failed to act in a timely fashion to protect workers who were involved in shipbuilding and ship maintenance from toxic exposures. Although there is a national asbestos injuries scheme, people who worked at the shipyards and family members are not eligible to lodge a claim. See: 船に関わる作業での石綿被害めぐり札幌で二次提訴元作業員の男性ら [Secondary lawsuit filed by former workers in Sapporo over asbestos damage in work related to ships].

Supporting Victims in Gwangju City

Jan 24, 2024

The sum of 1.8 billion won (US$1,350,335) has been allocated this year for asbestos relief benefits – to cover services such as medical and nursing care and funeral expenses – by the South Korea City of Gwangju for patients and bereaved families who have not received compensation for industrial injuries. In accordance with the Asbestos Damage Relief Act, Gwangju City has paid 2.66 billion won in asbestos relief benefits to 114 people over the past three years. It is anticipated that the 2024 allocation will cover payments to 50 claimants. See: 광주시, “석면피해 구제급여 신청하세요” [Gwangju City, “Apply for Asbestos Relief Benefits”].

Mesothelioma Treatment in Zhejiang

Jan 17, 2024

The case of mesothelioma patient Ms Liu was discussed in the article cited below which was about the increase in the occurrence of rare cancers in China. As a child, the patient had often visited her grandmother’s workplace which was an asbestos factory. Now in her 50s, this breast cancer survivor is receiving “standardized treatment” for pleural mesothelioma. The link between her exposure to asbestos and her cancer is highlighted by the author of the text. See: 罕见的肿瘤，罕见的医生为什么有这么多患者？ [Rare tumors, rare doctors Why are there so many patients?].

Asbestosis: Causes and Symptoms

Jan 17, 2024

The causation of occupational pneumoconiosis was discussed in the Vietnamese article cited below which was uploaded on January 14. Among the cohorts of workers at high risk were: “people exposed to asbestos and toxic chemicals.” “Today,” wrote the author “the use of asbestos is increasing in many industries, so the number of people exposed to asbestos and the risk of disease are higher (production of tile, cement, refractory bricks, insulation, car brake pads, mining...).” Symptoms of the disease were: shortness of breath on exertion, later continuous shortness of breath, chest tightness, cough and expectoration. See: Làm nghề nào dễ mắc bệnh bụi phổi? [Which professions are prone to pneumoconiosis?].

The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake

Jan 17, 2024

Almost 30 years after the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, staff from the Hyogo Occupational Safety and Health Center are holding telephone consultation sessions for people with concerns about asbestos exposures experienced during the disaster. Many asbestos diseases have long latency periods and it is possible that people exposed during the earthquake are now showing symptoms of disease. NGO workers answered the phone lines on January 15 & 16, 2024 from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. See: 阪神淡路大震災でのアスベスト被害を調査　電話相談を開催「何でも相談して」 [Investigating asbestos damage caused by the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake; in telephone consultation “Ask us anything”].

Asbestos Eradication in Schools

Jan 16, 2024

On January 11, 2024, the Provincial Office of Education in Gyeonggi, South Korea announced that it would set up an inspection team to oversee progress and compliance with regulations during asbestos dismantling and removal work at schools during the winter vacation. The inspectors will monitor work at 191 schools: 72 elementary and 50 middle schools, 2 special and 67 high schools. When this phase of the removal program is completed, nearly 70% of the schools in the area will be asbestos-free. See: 경기도교육청, 겨울방학 기간 학교 석면 현장 점검 [Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education, on-site inspection of asbestos in schools during winter vacation].

Plea to Ban Asbestos at Schools

Jan 11, 2024

India’s National Green Tribunal (NGT) received a petition from the Environment Ministry warning of the potential hazard posed by the presence of deteriorating asbestos-containing material in schools; liberated fibers “can enter air, water, and soil from the weathering, renovation, or demolition of manufactured asbestos products. People are likely to be exposed to asbestos through inhalation of airborne fibres,” said the brief. The petitioner cited a Nature Scientific Report, a World Health Organization report and a 2009 order approved by the Kerala State Human Rights Commission to outlaw the use of asbestos sheets. See: Report to NGT highlights adverse effects of asbestos sheets on human health.

New Hubs Expedite Asbestos Shipments

Jan 9, 2024

The article cited below confirmed the opening of new transport routes for shipping Chinese exports, including asbestos fiber, from northwest China to Indonesia. Eighty percent of China’s asbestos fiber production comes from Gansu Province, on the edge of the Gobi Desert. In the past, the long distances involved and the high shipping costs incurred hampered the development of the asbestos industry; the new logistics will allow foreign markets to be better served by Chinese asbestos suppliers. See: 首条“敦煌-青岛港”石棉海铁联运专列成功发运！ [The first "Dunhuang-Qingdao Port" asbestos sea–rail intermodal special train [cargo] was successfully shipped!].

Asbestos Removal in Schools

Jan 5, 2024

On January 3, 2024, the Daegu Metropolitan Office of Education announced that it was on track to eradicate the asbestos hazard in all its schools by the end of this year. This is two years ahead of the deadline set by the Korea’s Ministry of Education. The budget for asbestos removal and remediation work for the 2024 winter vacation set by the authorities in Daegu – a city in North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea – is 26.3 million won (US$20,120); this is for work in 52 schools. See: 대구시교육청, 2025년까지 학교 석면 완전히 없앤다 [Daegu Metropolitan Office of Education to completely eliminate asbestos from schools by 2025].

Monetizing Asbestos Waste

Jan 3, 2024

It was announced in December 2023, that a contract had been struck allowing a mining company to reprocess vast quantities of asbestos waste to reclaim high-purity silica, magnesium oxide and iron oxide. Asbestos mining in China produces 4-5 million tons of asbestos tailings (mining waste) every year. It is believed that, to date, 400 million tons of this waste has been produced as a result of the mining of chrysotile (white) asbestos over a 65-year period. See: 变“包袱”为“财富” 青海创安矿业科技有限公司启动500万吨/年石棉尾矿综合利用项目并签署一期EPCO合同 [Turning “burden” into “wealth” Qinghai Chuang'an Mining Technology Co., Ltd. launched a 5 million tons/year asbestos tailings comprehensive utilization project and signed a phase I EPCO contract].

Increased Asbestos Protections 2024

Dec 22, 2023

On December 19, 2923, South Korea’s Ministry of Environment (MoE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Social Welfare Joint Fund Association to collaborate on efforts “to improve the housing environment and protect the health of the vulnerable.” Under this project, work will proceed in 2024 on the eradication of asbestos from buildings used by children and vulnerable people. A MoE spokesperson also announced plans to revise the Enforcement Decree of the Asbestos Safety Management Act to “further strengthen asbestos safety management by designating local children's centers as statutory management facilities.” See: 취약계층 주거환경 개선사업 확대 [Expansion of Housing Environment Improvement Projects for the Vulnerable].

New Government Data

Dec 18, 2023

On December 13, 2023, a spokesperson for Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare announced that 1,140 people were certified in 2022 with asbestos-related occupational diseases. It was predicted that 1,000 such cases will be recognized annually for the foreseeable future. The total number of occupational asbestos-related claims recognized by this scheme is 20,643. Despite the availability of government benefits for some asbestos victims, litigation continues on behalf of others who are ineligible to bring claims under the current system. See: アスベスト労災認定、昨年度は1140人　今後も同水準続く見込み [1,140 people were certified for asbestos work-related injuries last year; the same level is expected to continue in the future].

Asbestos Hazard in Housing

Dec 18, 2023

The hazard posed by living with asbestos-containing material incorporated into Vietnamese homes was highlighted in the article cited below. The use of amphibole asbestos material was banned in Vietnam because of the risk to health; workplace and environmental exposures to amphibole asbestos can cause respiratory diseases and cancer. Products containing amphibole asbestos incorporated within buildings should be carefully removed. See: Nhận diện tác hại các hóa chất vượt chuẩn quy định Bộ Xây dựng [Identification of harmful effects of chemicals exceeding standards prescribed by the Ministry of Construction].

Asbestos Eradication in Ulsan

Dec 12, 2023

On December 8, 2023, the Department of Education of Ulsan City – the seventh-largest City in South Korea – announced it was spending 13 billion won (US$10m) during the upcoming winter school vacation to remove asbestos from 7 elementary schools, 5 middle schools, and 5 high schools; a total of 72,511m² of asbestos will be removed. On December 4, Ulsan officials conducted training sessions for 100 members of the asbestos monitoring group – including faculty, staff and parents from the 17 schools – who will be involved in oversight of the new phase of the decontamination work. See: 울산시교육청 겨울방학 중 17개교 석면제거…내년 완료 [Ulsan Metropolitan Office of Education removes asbestos from 17 schools during winter vacation... completed next year].

Occupational Illness in UP

Dec 12, 2023

The legacy of dangerous working conditions has created a high incidence of disease amongst former and current asbestos factory workers in Uttar Pradesh (UP), India where the facility belonging to the U.P. Asbestos Ltd. Co. has been operational since 1973. Former employees, like 68 year old Shatrughan Singh (68 years old) who had worked in the factory from 1975 to 2009, are now suffering from ill health, and there is currently no trade union to represent them. See: Slow Death of Asbestos Factory Workers in UP – a Ground Report.

Asbestos in Gyeonggi’s Schools

Dec 12, 2023

During a December 6 meeting of the Gyeonggi Provincial Assembly's Budget Committee, Rep. Lee Oh-su warned that “the mismanagement of asbestos removal work by the Gyeonggi-do Office of Education” threatened the health of students and teachers. The deadline set by the Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education for the eradication of asbestos from all its schools is 2026. Rep. Lee Oh-su was worried that a lack of funding would result in failure by Gyeonggi to meet this target. See: 이오수 경기도의원, 학생 및 교원 안전 위협하는 경기도 교육청의 석면 제거 공사 관리부실 지적 [Gyeonggi Provincial Assemblyman Lee Oh-su points out the Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education's poor management of asbestos removal work, which threatens the safety of students and teachers].

Asbestos in Schools

Dec 8, 2023

A health alert was raised by a citizens’ group about the presence of asbestos in some private nursery schools in Gwangju City in the southwest of South Korea. According to a new press release, asbestos material was present in 17 out of 136 kindergartens; 1,878 children attend the affected schools, all of which are under private ownership. Commenting on this situation, a spokesperson for the Gwangju City Office of Education said: “Private kindergartens are private property, so there is no legal basis to support them, but for the safety of children, we will find ways to support them…” See: “광주 사립유치원 17곳 원아 석면 노출…대책 마련 시급” [“exposure to asbestos in 17 private kindergartens in Gwangjus... It is urgent to take countermeasures”].

Asbestos on the Railway

Dec 8, 2023

The family of a deceased railway worker is requesting an investigation after their claim for his mesothelioma death in 2013 aged 87 was denied last month. He had worked for the Japan Railways and Transport Agency for 35 years and his death certificate acknowledged that his death had been caused by the asbestos cancer, mesothelioma. The deceased had inspected, dismantled and renovated rolling stock at the JNR Hatabu Factory and the Hakata General Rolling Stock Department, where he also removed asbestos-containing insulation materials. See: 死亡診断書に「中皮腫」、石綿作業35年　旧国鉄職員遺族に補償なし [‘Mesothelioma’ on death certificate, 35 years of asbestos work; no compensation for families of former JNR employees].

Asbestos in Nursery School

Dec 5, 2023

The presence of asbestos was reported in the ceiling of Nanaura Nursery School in Niigata City by an electrician working there on October 24. When the presence of asbestos was confirmed, the children were relocated. Subsequently, plans were made for all municipal facilities where it was suspected that sprayed asbestos might have been used to be reinspected. According to a spokesperson for Niigata’s Environment Department: “We will visually check to make sure that there are no omissions, and if any suspicious sprayed materials are found, we will inspect them for asbestos.” See: 保育園の天井からアスベスト検出　新潟市、全市有施設を再調査へ [Asbestos detected in the ceiling of a nursery school. Niigata City to re-investigate all city-owned facilities].

Beijing Fight for Asbestos Compensation

Dec 1, 2023

The article cited below detailed the struggle by a daughter to obtain compensation from an employer for the asbestos death of her mother who had been recognized as an occupational disease victim. According to the family’s lawyer: “in addition to work-related injury insurance, employees also have the right to claim civil compensation from the employer…If the expenses beyond the scope of the reimbursement by the social security fund are borne by the worker, it is contrary to the current laws and regulations, and is a serious infringement of the rights of vulnerable workers.” See: 女子退休17年后被诊断为职业性肿瘤，起诉原单位索赔期间病逝 [The woman was diagnosed with an occupational tumor 17 years after her retirement and died while suing her former employer for compensation].

Asbestos at Theme Park

Dec 1, 2023

At a press conference which took place in the Gangwon Province of South Korea on November 28, 2023, spokespersons for a broad-based coalition of environmental groups, including the Environmental Health Citizen's Center, announced that tremolite asbestos had been identified in six out of eight samples taken from more than 30 landscape stones at the Karst Geology Theme Park in the Korean Peninsula Myeon, Yeongwol-gun. A complaint was filed at the Yeongwol-gun Police Station. Asbestos use has been banned in South Korea since 2009. See: 영월군 공원 조경석에서 석면 검출 [Asbestos detected in landscaping stones at Yeongwol-gun Park

Asbestos Health Alert

Nov 28, 2023

During November, countries around the world mark Lung Cancer Month with initiatives to raise public awareness about lung cancer causation. The news article cited below warned that even Vietnamese citizens who did not smoke were at risk of contracting lung cancer. The text highlighted the dangers posed by working with asbestos, pointing out that occupational asbestos exposures could cause lung cancer as well as mesothelioma. The author also highlighted the risk to home renovators or DIY-ers who were exposed to asbestos during work in their homes. See: Những người này dù không hút thuốc cũng cực dễ bị ung thư phổi 'gõ cửa' [These people, even if they do not smoke, are extremely susceptible to lung cancer ‘knocking on the door’].

Protecting Workers from Toxic Exposures

Nov 27, 2023

On November 21, 2023, the Center for Disease Control of Ben Tre Province, in southern Vietnam organized a conference to improve the capacity to prevent occupational diseases. Asbestos was on the agenda as part of the discussion on the monitoring of workplaces using hazardous substances. Speakers explained mandatory requirements for occupational protections as well as the requirement to provide periodic health check-ups and medicals for at-risk workers. See: Hội Nghị Nâng Cao Năng Lực Phòng Chống Bệnh Nghề Nghiệp [Conference on capacity building for occupational disease prevention and control].

Rail Upgrade Speeds Asbestos Shipments

Nov 24, 2023

Streamlining and improvements on rail–sea links from China have increased the efficiency of transport links, thereby reducing the time taken for Chinese shipments of asbestos to reach markets in Thailand and Laos. On November 21, a train with 1,000+ tons of chrysotile asbestos in 44 containers left Dunhuang, Gansu Province; arriving by railway at the Chinese port of Tianjin Port, it was sent by ship to Bangkok. The scheduled delivery time for this cargo will be up to ten days less than previous modes of transport. As a result of this modernized system, asbestos exports from China are increasing. See: “敦煌-天津-曼谷”铁海联运石棉专列开行 [“Dunhuang-Tianjin-Bangkok” rail-sea intermodal asbestos special train launched].

Victim’s Verdict in Fukuoka

Nov 20, 2023

A lawsuit brought by bereaved relatives over an occupationally-caused death was settled last week at the Fukuoka District Court, Japan. From 1969, the deceased had worked for the Kyushu Electric Power Co. at four of its thermal power plants in the Fukuoka and Saga prefectures. He had been routinely exposed to asbestos at these workplaces and died aged 69 from mesothelioma, the signature cancer associated with asbestos exposures. Although the amount of the compensation payout was confidential, the family members had sought damages of ¥44.63 million (US$295,000). See: アスベスト訴訟、遺族と九州電力が和解　火力発電所で勤務 [Asbestos lawsuit, bereaved family of worker at thermal power plant settle with Kyushu Electric Power].

Asbestos Health Alert!

Nov 17, 2023

The article cited below contained a lengthy exposition regarding the health hazards posed by the continued use of asbestos in Vietnam. Explaining that there was a global consensus about the carcinogenic nature of all types of asbestos and that there was “no safe threshold for [exposures to] carcinogens,” the author bizarrely suggested that people concerned about toxic exposures: “use more ventilation… vacuum regularly… and avoid staying at construction sites or places with asbestos products for long periods of time. If necessary, wear a mask and take protective measures.” See: Bi kịch của amiăng: Chất gây ung thư cấp độ một, vẫn có thể được nhìn thấy ở trong ngôi nhà của bạn [The tragedy of asbestos: A first-degree carcinogen that can still be seen in your home].

Asbestos Watchdog

Nov 17, 2023

On November 14, 2023, it was announced that the authorities in South Korea’s Gimhae City had created an Asbestos Safety Management Monitoring Group to act as an asbestos watchdog to protect citizens from deadly workplace exposures to asbestos during renovating, removal and demolition work. According to Lee Yong-kyu, head of the City’s Climate Response Division: “We will secure reliability and transparency at work by overseeing asbestos dismantling work through the activities of the Asbestos Safety Management Monitoring Group.” See: 김해시, 석면안전관리감시단 출범…그린리더 20명 구성 [Gimhae City Launches Asbestos Safety Management Monitoring Group... Comprising 20 Green Leaders].

Relatives Sue Government

Nov 14, 2023

On November 9, 2023, the family of a deceased employee of the Hitachi Research Institute announced the filing of a lawsuit against the Japanese Government at Mito District Court over its’ failure to prevent asbestos exposures – seeking 14.3 million yen (US$94,345) compensation. The case was filed months before the expiry of a 20-year deadline. The familiy's lawyers said their clients hadn’t known it was possible to hold the Government to account for the exposures which caused the cancer contracted by their father. See: アスベスト吸入中皮腫死亡で国賠提訴元日立社員遺族「今年、制度を知った」 [Government sued for compensation over asbestos inhalation mesothelioma death of former Hitachi employee. Bereaved family “learned about the system this year”].

Asbestos in Nursery Schools

Nov 8, 2023

Politician Cha Hyeon-ju from South Korea’s Gyeongsangbuk Province, in the east of the country, told the Provincial Assembly of his concerns regarding the slow progress being made in eradicating the asbestos hazard from private nursery schools: “Out of 208 private kindergartens in the province, 59 (28%) are in need of asbestos removal work... prompt action will be needed to protect the health of kindergarten students.” He urged the Office of Education to “take active measures” to safeguard all school children. See: 차주식 경북도의원 “사립유치원 석면해체공사 지원 대책 마련해야” [Gyeongsangbuk Provincial Assemblyman Cha Hyeon-ju “We need to prepare measures to support asbestos dismantling work in private kindergartens”].

Disposing of Toxic Building Waste

Nov 6, 2023

China’s Ministry of Environment last week announced the approval of additional protocols for dealing with building waste containing asbestos, deemed to be a toxic substance. Previous government guidelines stipulated that this waste be buried according to strict procedures. Following the amendment to the disposal regulations, the use of chemical or heat treatments to detoxify the waste will now be allowed. See: 石绵瓦不只能固化掩埋环境部增“热处理、化学处理法” [Asbestos tiles can not only be solidified and buried, the Ministry of Environment has added “heat treatment and chemical treatment methods”].

Asbestos Ban on Track!

Nov 3, 2023

An article uploaded on November 2, 2023, reported that the Cambodian Government had confirmed its intention to ban asbestos in 2025 during discussions at a workshop in Phnom Penh this week. The event – which was organized by the Cambodian Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training, and Australia’s Union Aid Abroad (APHEDA) – was attended by representatives of 11 Ministries, employer organisations, trade unions and civil society groups. International as well as Cambodian experts addressed the meeting; the need for the implementation of mandatory protocols to protect workers and members of the public was considered. See: Workshop stresses need to ban asbestos by 2025.

Asbestos Legacy Lives On

Nov 3, 2023

An article which was published on October 30, 2023 in a major English-language Canadian newspaper considered the legacy of Quebec’s asbestos exports to India, the world’s largest asbestos-importing country. Although Canada no longer mines asbestos, “Canada has … had an outsized effect on Indian policy. Arguments Ottawa once made to defend the asbestos industry are still cited by Indian lawmakers.” In the face of India’s powerful asbestos lobby, the devastation caused by asbestos exposures is slowly emerging. According to Dr Raja Singh, the “continued asbestos use in India will cause health problems for decades.” See [subscription site]: Five years after Canada banned asbestos, industry clings on in India despite health concerns.

Eradicating Environmental Asbestos Hazard

Oct 30, 2023

According to information released this month by officials from Goheung County, in one of the areas in the southernmost part of the Korean peninsula, progress is being made in the safe disposal of asbestos-cement roofing waste as per terms stipulated in the Waste Management Act. “We have,” said a press release “secured 4,400 million won (US$3.2m) in the estimated budget to deal with the discarded waste tiles… we will do our best to protect the health of the people of the county from asbestos-containing roofing and create a comfortable living environment.” See: 고흥군, 1급 발암물질 석면 함유 폐슬레이트 추가 처리 [Goheung County further treats waste slate containing asbestos, a class 1 carcinogen].

Asbestos Awareness for Pupils

Oct 30, 2023

Because of the ubiquity of asbestos-containing products throughout the educational infrastructure in South Korea, a program was developed to explain to children, in an age-appropriate manner, the hazards of asbestos exposure and how such hazards were being managed. Both online and paper resources were developed by a coalition of civil society groups, “to improve the understanding of asbestos among children and adolescents.” See: 전국지역아동센터협의회, 아동 '석면이란?' 교육 영상 배포 [ Distribution of Educational Videos. National Council of Regional Children's Centers Distributes Children's “What Is Asbestos?”].

Reducing Lung Cancer Risk

Oct 26, 2023

In Vietnam, medical professionals are working to reduce the number of deaths from lung cancer. The article cited below from a Vietnam news portal, warned that exposures to environmental factors such as asbestos, as well as a history of smoking, could cause lung cancer. Citizens were advised that to minimize their risk of lung cancer they should: stop smoking, avoid passive smoking and take action to prevent exposures to asbestos, arsenic, chromium, nickel and soot. Asbestos use remains legal in Vietnam with consumption between 2020 and 2022 averaging ~31,000 tonnes. See: Giảm nguy cơ ung thư phổi với 5 thói quen đơn giản sau [Reduce your risk of lung cancer with these 5 simple habits].

Increasing Medical Asbestos Awareness

Oct 19, 2023

An International Conference on Asbestos-Related Diseases in Mongolia, organized by a Korean World Health Organization Collaborating Center, was held at a medical center in Seoul, Korea. Starting this year, staff at St. Mary’s Hospital have worked with members of the medical team of Professor Morimoto of the Japan University of Industrial Medicine to run capacity-building training sessions on occupational and environmental asbestos exposures and the incidence of related diseases for Mongolian medical staff. See: 서울성모병원 직업환경의학센터, 몽골서 석면 질환 국제컨퍼런스 진행 [Seoul St. Mary's Hospital Occupational and Environmental Medicine Center Conducts International Conference on Asbestos Disease in Mongolia].

Logistical Developments Boost Exports

Oct 19, 2023

The article cited below marked the 10th anniversary of the opening of new, improved transport links in China which connected Chinese hubs to 30+ countries including Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Thailand and Vietnam. The expedited delivery routes increased exports from China of multiple types of cargo, including raw asbestos fiber. In 2022, China was the world’s fourth largest asbestos-producing country – with an output of 130,000 tonnes (t) – and the 2nd largest consumer – with usage of 261,000t. In 2022, China imported ~174,000t of Russian asbestos. See: 「十年」兰州陆港国际货运班列通江达海 [“Ten Years” Lanzhou Dry Port International Freight Train Connects Rivers and Seas].

A Tragic Asbestos Legacy

Oct 19, 2023

Officials in the South Korean County of Hongseong called for an “expansion of the asbestos victims’ health care service project” in recognition of the fact that the county had the highest number of asbestos victims in South Korea. According to Jang Jae-seok, a member of the Hongseong County Council, 10 of Korea’s 38 asbestos mines were in Hongseong. Many of Hongseong’s asbestos victims are elderly and find it difficult to access medical resources outside their localities. See: "석면 피해자 최다 발생 홍성... 실질 지원방안 마련해야" [“The highest number of asbestos victims is in Hongseong... We need to come up with a real support plan”].

Subsidizing Asbestos Removal Costs

Oct 17, 2023

On October 12, 2023, a contract was signed by the Busan Environmental Corporation with Rotary International District 3661, under which plans were agreed to provide subsidies for low-income families in Korea’s 2nd biggest city to help them bear the costs of the removal and replacement of toxic asbestos roofing. In 2018, the two organizations provided a total of 1,400 million won (US$1m) to 2,000 low-income households. This year, a subsidy of 3,661 million won (US$2.7m) will be made available to replace asbestos roofs for vulnerable groups. See: 부산환경공단·국제로타리 3661지구, 저소득층 가정 슬레이트 철거비용 지원 [Busan Environmental Corporation, Rotary International District 3661 to help low-income families with slate removal costs].

Asbestos-Free Green Technology

Oct 17, 2023

The article cited below was uploaded to a Vietnamese construction news portal on October 13, 2023. Although it didn’t say the text was contributed by the building products conglomerate Saint Gobain Vietnam, it certainly read as if it were. The author highlighted the increasing support by the Vietnam Government of green and sustainable technologies; the introduction of the asbestos-free product range – DURAflex fiber cement panels – by Saint Gobain, a manufacturer of asbestos-cement building material, promoted, it was claimed, Vietnam’s green building agenda. See: Vật liệu xanh – Giải pháp tối ưu cho sự phát triển bền vững [Green materials – The optimal solution for sustainable development].

Asbestos at the Park

Oct 17, 2023

An asbestos audit of the building site for the Incheon Wonsin Neighborhood Park, located in the Seo-gu district of the South Korean city of Incheon, found pieces of asbestos-cement (AC) debris and asbestos fibers in the grass and soil. The AC debris contained up to 10% asbestos fiber. The Western Youth Training Center was located next to the construction site. Construction began on the park project in May 2023; after excavation work began in September, asbestos was found in the soil. An official for the district confirmed that the results of a soil survey are awaited. See: 인천지역 청소년시설 코앞에 ‘석면 흙가루’ 풀풀 [‘Asbestos dust grass’ pool in front of Incheon youth facility].

Specialist Support for Schools

Oct 16, 2023

Authorities in Korea take the issue of asbestos very seriously and have strict regulations regarding the management of asbestos in schools. The Education Support Agency in Seongnam, a satellite city of the country’s capital, announced last week that it had signed a risk assessment and maintenance service contract with the Korea Asbestos Environment Research Institute, which will take over responsibility for supervising asbestos material in schools and provide professional management of affected premises. See: 성남교육지원청, 학교석면 위해성평가 및 유지보수 용역 실시 [Seongnam Education Support Agency, school asbestos risk assessment and maintenance service].

Protecting Children in Safe Schools

Oct 16, 2023

On October 11, 2023, the Office of Education in the Korean Province of Gyeonggi announced a new program to created “safe schools, schools that prepare for the future.” Amongst the work which will be undertaken under this initiative, for which 1.5 trillion won (US$1.1bn) has been allocated every year, is the completion of work to remove asbestos from schools. Since 2016, the Province has been eradicating the asbestos hazard from schools; as a result of steady progress, the provincial education department plans to complete the project one year early. The modernizing of schools will create more than 20,000 jobs. See: 경기도교육청, 학교시설 개선에 매년 1조5천억원 투입 [Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education invests 1.5 trillion won annually to improve school facilities].

Asbestos in Schools

Oct 13, 2023

A deadline of 2027 has been set by the Office of Education supervising the western part of the Korean city of Daejeon for the eradication of the asbestos hazard from 57 schools, with spokesperson Chae Hong pledging that: “We will do our best to complete the asbestos dismantling and removal work safely during the summer vacation period so that we can provide a comfortable and safe educational environment for students.” To date, 8.3 billion won (US$6.2m) had been spent to decontaminate six schools in the district. A further 3.2 billion won (US$2.4m) has been allocated for work at 2 more schools during the winter vacation 2023/24. See: 대전서부교육지원청,'석면 없는 청정 학교 조성' [Daejeon West Education Support Agency, ‘Creation of Asbestos-Free and Clean Schools’].

Asbestos in Shipbreaking Yards

Oct 12, 2023

Shipbreaking yards in Bangladesh are thriving, due to the cheap prices they charge for the scrapping of redundant ships. With no protective equipment and little attention paid to health and safety, barefoot workers are routinely exposed to dangerous conditions and substances such as asbestos. The results of medical tests undertaken on shipbreaking workers by personnel from the OSHE Foundation found that of 110 shipbreaking workers examined, 33 had “varying degrees of lung damage… [and] three have died, while the others live in misery.” See: Cost of cheap steel: European ships, Bangladeshi lives - tragic tale unveiled.

Asbestos at Nursery School

Oct 12, 2023

On October 10, 2023, Niigata City announced that work it had ordered to be undertaken at Urushiyama Higashi Nursery School may have liberated asbestos fibers. The renovations, which were carried out while the kindergarten was open, necessitated the removal of paint on an exterior wall of the premises. A report on this work concluded that asbestos fibers may have become airborne as a result of this work. Once this was known, the children were relocated to another venue as an investigation was carried out. See: 保育園の外壁工事でアスベストが園内廊下に飛散した可能性　新潟市発注工事《新潟》 [Asbestos may have been scattered into the hallway of nursery school due to construction work on exterior walls].

Mesothelioma Epidemic: 2023 Update

Oct 9, 2023

The Japanese Government has admitted that the national epidemic of asbestos cancer is growing. According to the Ministry of the Environment, deaths will continue until 2051 at the earliest as the figures collected to date do not include deaths from workplace asbestos exposures experienced by asbestos removal or demolition workers. Data cited in articles such as the one below compared the national asbestos experiences of the UK and Japan and highlighted the repercussions of failures by the Japanese government to take timely action on the asbestos hazard. See: 「ほぼアスベストが原因」の中皮腫死、ついに3万人超過　「引き続き増加傾向」と国も認める [Mesothelioma deaths “always caused by asbestos” finally exceed 30,000. Goverment admits “trend is increasing”].

Workers Should Obtain Health Care Cards

Oct 9, 2023

Members of Korea’s Samsung Heavy Industries trade union held an outreach rally on October 4, 2023, urging workers who had experienced workplace exposures to toxic substances like asbestos to obtain a health care card. The card is available to current, retired, contracted as well as permanent workers and entitles holders to free, annual medical examinations under the provisions of the Occupational Safety and Health Act. Early examinations facilitate early diagnoses of occupational cancer; as well as speeding up the provision of government benefits; early diagnoses means that more medical options could be explored for treatment and care of the injured. See: "조선소 석면 취급 노동자 건강관리카드 발급 받으세요" [“Get a shipyard asbestos handling worker health care card”].

Life is Cheap in the Shipbreaking Yards

Oct 9, 2023

Although there are international protocols forbidding the dumping of hazardous ships in developing countries, ships deemed no longer to be of use in the West are sold to cash buyers who circumvent regulations and dispose of the vessels for the best price. With no health and safety regulations in place and no equipment to protect workers, the shipbreaking yards of India and Bangladesh are doing a brisk trade. Asbestos is regarded in the yards as just another material: “in some cases, workers even remove the fibers surrounding the pipes or metal plates of boats with their bare hands.” See: L’ultimo viaggio [The last voyage].

Consumers Rejecting Asbestos Roofing

Oct 5, 2023

Results of a new survey undertaken in Vietnam – one of the world’s biggest asbestos consumers – show that the popularity of asbestos roofing is falling. In 2015, 58,000 tonnes of asbestos was imported; this figure fell to ~20,000 tonnes in 2019 with production of asbestos roofing decreasing from 118+ million square metres in 2015 to 28 million in 2019. The responses from people questioned suggest that the availability of safer, reasonably priced roofing material and the growing awareness of the asbestos hazard were behind the decline in consumer demand for asbestos roofing. See: Asbestos imports and roof sheet production drop 66% in Vietnam.

Toxic Shipbreaking on the Beaches

Oct 2, 2023

The insightful article cited below was uploaded on September 28, 2023 by Human Rights Watch. The text documented the deadly price paid by workers in Bangladesh’s shipbreaking yards who are routinely exposed to dangerous substances and unsafe conditions without even the most basic of protective equipment. One of the occupational hazards is asbestos. According to a report issued by the Bangladesh Occupational Safety, Health, and Environment Foundation (2017) more than one third of shipbreaking workers reported experiencing health complications from asbestos exposures. See: Trading Lives for Profit: How the Shipping Industry Circumvents Regulations to Scrap Toxic Ships on Bangladesh’s Beaches.

Initiative to Raise Mesothelioma Awareness

Oct 2, 2023

To spread awareness of Japan’s mesothelioma epidemic, the Tokyo-based NGO Mesothelioma, Pneumoconiosis, and Asbestos Center has set up a competition which will begin receiving applications from October 1. Entrants can submit their work under one of four categories: photos, essays, literary arts and research promotion. The pieces will be judged by their effectiveness in raising public awareness of the signature cancer associated with asbestos exposure. Monetary prizes will be given to the successful competitors. See: アスベスト問題を未来の世代にもわかりやすく写真や文芸に賞を創設 [Establishment of awards for photography and literature to make asbestos issues easier to understand for future generations].

Asbestos Roofing Toxicity Reminder

Sep 25, 2023

Asbestos roofing which is popular in Indonesia has been banned in many parts of the world because of the health hazard it poses to workers who handle it and people who live in buildings containing it. The article cited below reviewed the content of a short video about this subject uploaded to YouTube which explained that exposure to asbestos fibers liberated by toxic roofing could cause a number of cancers as well as respiratory diseases. See: Kenapa Atap Asbes Dilarang? Awas Bahaya Penyakit Paru-paru yang Tidak [Why is asbestos roofing banned? Beware of the Dangers of Incurable Lung Disease].

Supporting Gwangju’s Asbestos Victims

Sep 22, 2023

On September 19, 2023 officials in Gwangju City, in the southwest of South Korea, announced an expansion of the city’s efforts to support citizens who contract asbestos-related diseases as a result of environmental exposures, including those who had lived near asbestos-using factories. The municipality is increasing its budgetary allocation for its asbestos relief program and streamlining the application process to ensure swift payment of benefits – within 60 days – to victims and/or bereaved family members. See: 광주시, 석면피해 구제급여 확대한다 [Gwangju City expands relief benefits for asbestos damage].

Asbestos Risks Highlighted in Video

Sep 22, 2023

A five-minute video uploaded to youtube on September 17, 2023 by the NGO Indonesian Ban Asbestos Network explained why the continued use of asbestos posed a deadly health risk to members of the public as well as to workers, especially in light of the numerous natural disasters which occur in the country. Dr Anna Suraya explained that exposure to asbestos can cause a variety of diseases including mesothelioma (cancer) and asbestosis. Seventy per cent of the asbestos used worldwide every year is consumed in Asian countries; most of the asbestos used in Indonesia is for the manufacture of building materials. See: Kenapa Rumah di Indonesia Masih Tetap Pakai Atap Asbes? Ini Jawabannya [Why Do Houses in Indonesia Still Use Asbestos Roofs? Here’s the Answer].

Asbestos Meeting in Qinghai

Sep 21, 2023

The annual meeting of China’s Asbestos Trade Association – the Chrysotile Asbestos Professional Committee (the Committee) – took place earlier this month. The remit of the Committee is to promote asbestos sales; expand the industry; and support the industry’s best interests. Presentations and recommendations made during the event considered measures to preserve the status quo so that the use of asbestos-based products in China could continue. Asbestos mines in China, the world’s third largest asbestos producer, are in Qinghai, Xinjiang, Shanxi, Gansu and Yunnan Provinces. See: 专家“会诊”为温石棉产业高质量发展献计 [Expert “consultation” provides suggestions for the high-quality development of the chrysotile asbestos industry].

Protest over Asbestos Crimes

Sep 21, 2023

On September 12, 2023, a group of activists in Wonju City – in South Korea’s Gangwon Province – held a press conference in front of the Wonju Academy Theater, where they said that: “asbestos removal was carried out illegally…” in violation of provisions of the Occupational Safety and Health Act and the Asbestos Safety Management Act. As a result of unsafe practices by contractors, workers as well as members of the public and local business people were exposed to asbestos fibers. Officials ordered demolition work to cease until a plan was approved to ensure the safety of all concerned. See: "아카데미극장 석면 불법 철거…주민·상인 1급 발암물질 노출" [“Illegal demolition of asbestos at the Academy Theatre... Exposure of residents and merchants to class 1 carcinogens”].

Asbestos Public Health Risk

Sep 14, 2023

A paper documenting the findings of Japanese researchers regarding the public health risk of living in proximity to a large-scale asbestos-cement production facility in Amagasaki, Japan was uploaded to the PubMed search engine in July 2023. The scientists observed “an increasing, dose-dependent risk of mesothelioma death associated with neighborhood exposure… A quantitative assessment for risk of mesothelioma deaths, adjusting for occupational and non-occupational exposures separately, showed a dose-dependent association with neighborhood exposure and no substantial gender differences in magnitude.” See: Association of mesothelioma deaths with neighborhood asbestos exposure due to a large-scale asbestos-cement plant.

Builders’ Policies Bar Asbestos Claims

Sep 14, 2023

Decree No. 67/2023/ND-CP dated September 6, 2023 of the Vietnam Government mandated that the insurance liability limit for workers on construction sites be set at 100 million Vietnamese dong, or US$4162.00. There are multiple exclusions on these policies including claims related to exposure to asbestos or materials containing it. Although asbestos exemptions are not unusual, the fact that Vietnam is one of Asia’s largest asbestos consumers and that most asbestos is used in building materials is of serious concern for people working in the construction sector. See: Giới hạn trách nhiệm bảo hiểm bắt buộc với người lao động trên công trường là 100 triệu đồng/người/vụ [The limit of compulsory insurance liability for workers on a construction site is 100 million VND/person/case].

Nephews of Asbestos Victim File Lawsuit

Sep 11, 2023

On September 6, 2023, the nephews of an electrician from Hyogo who died aged 78 from mesothelioma filed a lawsuit with the Kobe District Court, claiming damages of 14 million yen (US$95,000) from a government scheme which excluded anyone other than close family from eligibility to compensation. According to their lawyer, the deceased did not receive the money he was owed from the construction asbestos benefits scheme because of bureaucratic delays; he had no children and it was right for the money to go to his nephews who regarded him as a father. See: 叔父がアスベストで死亡『姪らが給付金受け取れないのは不当』と国に損害賠償求め提訴 [Uncle dies of asbestos, “It is unfair that nephews cannot receive benefits” so they sue the government for damages].

Asbestos Removal Program

Aug 31, 2023

In a press release issued on August 29, 2023 the Pingtung County government in southern Taiwan announced plans to implement a program to eradicate asbestos from 20,000 buildings in the locality. Even when building owners in Pintung removed asbestos in the past, they did not do so using experienced personnel or pursuant to rules to remove and dispose of the contaminated waste safely. The authorities in Pintung have applied to the Ministry of Environment for funding to carry out the program to remove asbestos from contaminated buildings. See: Pingtung funding removal of asbestos from buildings.

Asbestos Health Surveillance Project

Aug 31, 2023

Next month (September 2023), residents of eight wards of Jeju Island, South Korea's largest island, will be eligible to take part in an innovative health screening program run by the Ministry of Environment to identify members of the public adversely affected by historic asbestos exposures. Jeju Island is an asbestos hotspot because of the use and handling of asbestos-containing material at ship repair yards on the island. To be eligible, applicants must have lived in at-risk areas for 40 years. The tests will be carried out by personnel from the Asbestos Environmental Health Center of Cheonan Hospital of Sooncheonyang University. See: 제주도, 석면 노출 우려지역 무료 건강영향 조사 [Jeju Island, free health impact survey in areas of concern for asbestos exposure].

Oncologist Calls for Asbestos Ban

Aug 28, 2023

At the launch of a lung screening program in Jakarta, Indonesia on August 24, 2023, the Head of the Oncology Working Group of the Indonesian Lung Doctors Association Dr Sita Laksmi Andarini said: “Asbestos is a serious carcinogenic hazard as are cigarettes…Asbestos in homes, it is a high risk factor for lung cancer.” Dr Andarini told participants at the meeting that there was no asbestos ban in Indonesia but that he felt such a ban was needed to protect the population from toxic exposures. See: Asbes Bisa Picu Kanker Paru, Tidak Dianjurkan Dipakai untuk Material Rumah [Asbestos Can Trigger Lung Cancer, Not Recommended for Use in Homes].

Asbestos Exposures in Shipbreaking

Aug 28, 2023

In the face of denials by the lobby representing the Bangladesh shipbreaking industry, non-government organizations have identified 30+ workers whose exposures to asbestos on the shipbreaking beaches had decreased their lung capacity by up to 60%. According to Syeda Rizwana Hasan, President of the Bangladesh Environmental Lawyers Association: “The ships that are older than 20 years contain asbestos in the engine room, boiler, and many other places where it requires heat and fire resistance… in our country the guidelines are not followed and asbestos is removed by the general workers who do not take any precautions. Not only that, the asbestos is later sold in the open market and to the cement factories.” See: Ship-breaking workers suffer lifelong illness due to asbestos exposure.

Case Study: How Not to Ban Asbestos

Aug 28, 2023

An article published on August 2, 2023 in the Annals of Global Health about the curious situation regarding Mongolia’s 2010 asbestos ban shone a light on how a measure implemented to protect occupational and public health was sunk by improper preparations. As a result of this, the authors explained, “main asbestos users such as power plants were not prepared to replace thermal insulation materials and were not aware of potential future health and economic consequences. This situation caused a step backward on asbestos control and allowed the use of asbestos again in 2011.” See: Mongolia: Failure of Total Banning of Asbestos.

Asbestos Awareness Training: Upgrade

Aug 25, 2023

On August 23, 2023, the opening ceremony of the new headquarters of South Korea’s Asbestos Damage Prevention Support Center was held in the Yeonsu District of Incheon City. The Center provides awareness training for asbestos investigators and occupational safety personnel. Greeting all the well wishers, the Chairman of the Center Choi Mi-kyung said: “As an educational institution of the Ministry of Employment and Labor with the goal of protecting the safety of workers and citizens, we will strive to provide asbestos safety and health education to create a safe environment through communication and cooperation.” See: 석면피해예방지원센터, 연수구로 확장 이전 [Asbestos Damage Prevention Support Center relocates to Yeonsu-gu].

Preventing Occupational Diseases

Aug 23, 2023

The Department of Health of Hai Duong province in the North of Vietnam has launched a seven-year plan to reduce the incidence of occupationally-caused diseases, such as those experienced by people working with asbestos. The new measures, which are being introduced as the number of injured workers is rising, will include protocols for monitoring and supporting workers at risk of contracting asbestos and other occupationally-caused diseases. One of the aims of this new program is that 100% of labor establishments using asbestos will be supervised and monitored to ensure that they are operating according to regulations by 2025. See: Chăm sóc, nâng cao sức khỏe người lao động [Caring for and improving workers' health].

Asbestos Alert in Jakarta!

Aug 23, 2023

In a recent webinar, Dr Eddy, the Chairperson of the Indonesian Association of Occupational Health Doctors, warned Indonesians of the cancer risk posed by buying asbestos-containing roofing. The doctor recommended that the toxic material should be replaced, because of the proven health hazard posed by human exposures to asbestos. Indonesia is one of the world’s largest asbestos-consuming nations using, on average, ~107,000 tonnes per year between 2016 and 2020. See: Atap Rumah Pakai Asbes, Awas Bahaya Kanker Paru Mengitai [House Roof Using Asbestos, Beware of the Risk of Lung Cancer].

Lung Cancer from Asbestos Exposure

Aug 21, 2023

A case study of construction worker Wang Zhihua from Hunan, central China who contracted lung cancer after workplace exposures to asbestos was featured in the article cited below on a Chinese news portal. Zhihua received hazardous exposure on a daily basis, as his main job was the installation of asbestos-cement boards. The text reported that “workers who have been exposed to asbestos for a long time have more than 5 times the risk of lung cancer than the general population.” See: 致癌物“石棉”，潜伏期可达40年，日常的6种物品都有，请自查 [Carcinogen "asbestos", the incubation period can reach 40 years, daily 6 kinds of items, please check yourself].

Increase in Asbestos Cancer

Aug 21, 2023

The article cited below, which discussed the types, uses and problems associated with the historic use of asbestos in Japan, explained that more cases of asbestos-related diseases were being seen in people in their 50s and 60s. People experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned, and especially those at high risk – such as people who worked in the asbestos industry, lived with a family member who did or lived near an asbestos processing factory – are advised to seek immediate medical attention. See: 50代から急増するアスベストの健康障害 [Asbestos health problems are rapidly increasing from people in their 50s].

Asbestos Hazard in Shipbreaking

Aug 18, 2023

A 25-page report uploaded on August 16, 2023 to the website of the Platform on Clean Shipbreaking which reviewed the situation on shipbreaking beaches in Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Turkey and China in the quarter ending July 2023, highlighted the widespread prevalence of asbestos-related conditions and diseases in workers. Reduced lung function amongst shipbreaking workers was common, with many having reduced lung capacity of up to 60%. “Based on an asbestos survey done between 2011 and 2020, more than 55% of operating vessels and 50% of all new vessels were found to contain asbestos materials.” See: South Asia Quarterly Update.

Calls for Asbestos Action!

Aug 17, 2023

Earlier this month, Dr Chen Tianhui and his team from the Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences in China called for “developing countries to ban asbestos altogether.” China is the world’s third largest asbestos-producing country and second biggest asbestos consumer. Points made in the article cited below included: “all forms of asbestos are carcinogenic to humans”; “in China, although the use of amphibole asbestos has been completely banned, chrysotile asbestos is still widely used”; environmental as well as occupational exposures pose serious threats to the population. See: 致癌物“石棉”，潜伏期可达20年，你用过的这些物品可能都有 [The first-class carcinogen “asbestos,” has an incubation period of up to 20 years, and may have been in items you have used].

Supporting Asbestos Victims

Aug 17, 2023

Following research by a municipal study group, the Council of Korea’s Hongseong County introduced protocols to improve vital services for victims of asbestos-related diseases including: increased capacity for the provision of healthcare for asbestos victims, the expansion of staff and equipment needed to treat victims at Hongseong Medical Center, subsidies to cover transport and nursing expenses for victims, etc. The County Council has committed itself to maintaining a watching brief so that other measures to support the injured can be introduced as needed in collaboration with other local councils and government ministries. See: 홍성군의회, 석면피해자 구제지원 개선 방안 모색 [Hongseong County Council seeks ways to improve relief support for asbestos victims].

Subsidies for Asbestos Eradication

Aug 17, 2023

The South Korean Province of Gyeongnam-do, in the southeast of the country, has allocated the sum of 240 billion won (US $180m) to subsidize the removal and disposal of asbestos roofing on houses, barns, warehouses, etc. to prevent toxic exposures to people who live or use the contaminated buildings. The full costs will be met for vulnerable households and others will receive a maximum of 352,700 million won (US$264,000) to carry out the work. See: 경남도, 석면 슬레이트 건출물 처리비용 지원 [Gyeongnam-do, asbestos slate construction disposal cost support].

Asbestos Alert!

Aug 16, 2023

As Typhoon Kanun approached Korea, warnings were issued by Wonju City officials about the likelihood of the town’s Academy Theater collapsing from the effects of the storm. A recent safety inspection had confirmed that as a result of cracks in the building’s thin asbestos roof, the capacity of the theater to survive typhoon conditions was uncertain. A spokesperson for the municipality said that emergency safety inspections would be carried out to protect the population “by promptly demolishing buildings that continue to threaten the safety and health of citizens as planned.” See: 원주시, ‘태풍 카눈’ 북상으로 ‘안전성 평가 D등급 건물 붕괴 위험’ 고조 [Wonju City Raises 'Risk of Collapse of Safety Assessment Class D Building' as ‘Typhoon Kanun’ Arises to the North].

Supporting the Asbestos Injured

Aug 16, 2023

Having consulted with asbestos victims regarding their health and other concerns, the Prefecture of Kanagawa, Japan last week added additional resources and information to its website to facilitate access to relevant healthcare services. Details were provided for multiple local health and welfare offices as well as for medical services specializing in cancer and cardiovascular diseases. See: 神奈川県がホームページでアスベスト(石綿)に関する健康相談窓口を紹介 [Kanagawa Prefecture introduces a health consultation counter for asbestos on its website].

Govt. Plans Stricter Asbestos Protections

Aug 7, 2023

China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology banned the production of amphibole asbestos in 2002; it also set occupational exposure limits for chrysotile asbestos to protect workers. The Ministry, in collaboration with the National Health Commission, announced plans to “strengthen the standardized management of chrysotile asbestos production enterprises, increase the publicity of occupational disease prevention and control, increase awareness of the asbestos hazard…” and take other steps to protect the population from toxic asbestos exposures. See: 工业和信息化部答“长期接触石棉建材等制品会致癌？”问题 [The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology answered the question “Can long-term exposure to asbestos building materials and other products cause cancer?”

Supreme Court Victims’ Verdict

Aug 1, 2023

Last week, Japan’s Supreme Court rejected an appeal by the Zen-Nippon Inspection Association (Tokyo) which had been found guilty by the Kobe District Court and the Osaka High Court of failing to prevent asbestos exposures to three dock workers – Masao Akagi, Megumi Tanaka and Hiroyuki Kurabuchi – all of whom contracted lung cancer. See: 神戸港で作業、石綿を吸引し肺がんに　男性3人、勤務先に賠償求め勝訴確定　最高裁、被告側の上告不受理 [Working at Kobe Port, breathing asbestos and suffering from lung cancer. Three men win a lawsuit seeking compensation from their employer as Supreme Court rejects defendant's appeal].

Rotterdam Convention Resource

Jul 26, 2023

A 9-page factsheet uploaded recently, entitled The Rotterdam Convention An Overview, is a useful online resource for people hoping to fathom the intricacies of the quagmire which is the UN Rotterdam Convention on Prior Informed Consent Procedures for Certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade. The publication, which was issued by the Indian NGO Toxics Link, concluded that: “it is in interest of all countries, including India, to strengthen the Rotterdam Convention and support the inclusion of more hazardous chemicals under the ambit of Rotterdam Convention. To strengthen the Convention, Parties will need to come together to create a robust central monitoring mechanism to ensure that the PIC procedure is uniformly enforced.” See: The Rotterdam Convention An Overview.

Asbestos-Free Schools by 2024

Jul 21, 2023

According to a statement on July 14th by the Jeonbuk Office of Education, eradication of asbestos from elementary, middle and high schools in Jeonbuk will be completed on schedule by 2024. During Summer vacations, work will be carried out at 40 Jeonbuk schools under the supervision of school asbestos monitoring groups, composed, at each facility, of the school principal or assistant principal, asbestos building safety manager, parents, civic groups, asbestos supervisor, on-site representative of asbestos dismantling / removal company and construction supervisor. See: 전북교육청 "내년까지 도내 초중고 학교에서 석면 깨끗이 퇴출" [Jeonbuk Office of Education “Elimination of asbestos from elementary, middle and high schools in the province by next year”].

Halt of Baby Powder Production

Jul 18, 2023

On July 14, 2023, an article in The Times of India announced that Johnson & Johnson (J&J) had “surrendered its licence to manufacture baby powder in its Mumbai plant” on June 22, 2023. The decision to stop manufacturing baby powder in India was, said the company “part of a global move to switch from talc-based to cornstarch-based baby powders.” The author of the article cited below pointed out that J&J had stopped producing its talc-based baby powder in the US and Canada three years ago. See: J&J stops manufacture of baby powder in country [India].

Implementation of Asbestos Ban

Jul 14, 2023

On July 11, 2023, the Occupational Safety and Health Masterplan 2023-2027 was announced in the Cambodian capital by the Minister of Labor; it included provisions to outlaw the use of asbestos and asbestos-containing products on pages 16, 17, 22,23,38,40,44, 45, 73,74,79. Details regarding the planned actions and a timeline for the prohibitions are on pages 44/45 and 73/74. They are very comprehensive and reflect the determination of the government to protect citizens from further deadly exposures. In his opening speech on July 11, the Minister specifically mentioned the asbestos ban as one of the ministry’s top priorities. See: Cambodia Third Occupational Safety and Health Master Plan 2023-2027.

Living with Asbestos

Jul 14, 2023

Despite the existence of a national ban and regulations for managing asbestos-containing material, many people lack the financial resources to comply with guidelines. The article cited below described the hazardous conditions of people living in substandard houses containing asbestos products in the Mulmangol area of the South Korean city of Busan. Commenting on this situation Busan City Council member Kim Hyung-cheol said: “Due to the nature of unauthorized buildings, maintenance is not easy, but we cannot ignore residents whose lives are threatened by asbestos.” See: 빗물은 예사, 지붕 무너질까 걱정…석면 위험 알아도 돈 없어 못 고쳐 [Rainwater is normal, worried about the roof collapsing … I know the danger of asbestos, but I can't fix it because I don't have the money].

Legal Breakthrough in Sapporo

Jul 13, 2023

A spokesman for the Association of Mesothelioma and Asbestos Disease Patients and their Families announced on July 6, 2023 that for the first time a court had recognized as an industrial accident the mesothelioma death in 1989 of a 41-year old man who had worked for a construction company in Hokkaido based solely on a doctor’s certificate. This was, said the Association, “an extremely rare and groundbreaking accreditation that paves the way for people in similar situations.” See: 死亡診断書なしでもアスベスト労災を認定 [Recognition of asbestos work-related injuries without a death certificate].

Asbestos in Schools

Jul 11, 2023

According to a report released in Seoul on July 3, 2023 by the Environmental Health Citizens’ Center and the Gyeonggi Environmental Movement Alliance, around 40% of the elementary, middle and high schools in the Gyeonggi area of Korea still contain asbestos. During the coming months, whilst the schools are shut due to summer vacations, the authorities will be removing asbestos from 35 schools including 13 elementary, 10 middle and 12 high schools. See: 경기지역 학교 969곳, 석면 무방비 노출 [969 schools in Gyeonggi area exposed to asbestos Unprotected].

Asbestos on Lombok Island

Jul 10, 2023

A graphic report by the Australian Broadcasting Company which was uploaded on July 4, 2023 detailed widespread asbestos contamination on Lombak island, a popular tourist destination in Indonesia. Thirty-one samples taken at 100 locations were analyzed by three different laboratories; asbestos was found in two thirds of the samples. Prior to the 2018 earthquake, 25% of the homes on Lombak had asbestos-cement roofs. After the disaster, the damaged homes were bulldozed by the government, thereby spreading the asbestos even further. See: VIDEO: Asbestos posing a threat to tourists and locals in Lombok.

July is Mesothelioma Month

Jul 10, 2023

In July, asbestos victims, family members and campaigners from the Mesothelioma Support Caravan Team engage in a series of events to raise awareness of the hazard of asbestos exposures in Japan in collaboration with the Mesothelioma/Asbestos Disease/Patients and Families Group, the National Cancer Center, Rare Cancer Center and other stakeholders throughout the country. See: 7月は中皮腫啓発月間 Mesothelioma Awareness Month [July is Mesothelioma Awareness Month].

Claiming Mesothelioma Benefits

Jul 6, 2023

According to the Ministry of Labor in Taiwan, people who contract the asbestos cancer mesothelioma having worked with asbestos-containing material are entitled to bring a claim. Eligible applicants will be awarded the sum of 200,000 yuan (US$6,400) in disability benefits as per stipulations of the Disaster Insurance Act Article 78. According to government estimates, a maximum of 300 mesothelioma claimants in Taiwan would qualify for Disability Benefits from the Occupational Accident Insurance Scheme. See: 從事石綿工作罹間皮細胞瘤亡遺屬可申請慰問金 [Engaged in asbestos work and suffering from mesothelioma, survivors can apply for support].

Asbestos in Schools

Jul 6, 2023

On June 28, 2023, the Office of Education of the Korean City of Daejeon announced plans to remove asbestos at four schools whilst they are empty during the summer vacation at a cost of 5.3 billion won (US$4m). Before work begins, briefings will be held for the asbestos monitor group and faculty members. According to a spokesperson for the municipality: “We will do our best to ensure that asbestos dismantling and removal work during the summer vacation can be carried out in a transparent and safe manner, with both parents and faculty members agreeing.” See: 대전서부교육청「여름방학 석면해체·제거 공사 추진」 [Daejeon Seobu Office of Education, promoting asbestos dismantling and removal work during summer vacation].

Construction Workers’ Victory

Jul 4, 2023

In a June 30, 2023 ruling, the Osaka District Court ordered 12 manufacturers of asbestos construction products to pay compensation of 940 million yen (US$6.5m) to 73 plaintiffs injured as a result of asbestos exposures at construction sites. In his verdict Judge Maru said: “The victims suffered tremendous physical pain, their quality of daily life declined, and they were deprived of their enjoyment of life. The mental chagrin of not being able to live and contribute to society through work is immeasurable.” See: 建設アスベスト訴訟　メーカー12社に約9.4億円の賠償を命じる　大阪地裁 [Construction asbestos lawsuit Orders 12 manufacturers to pay compensation of about 940 million yen Osaka District Court].

Who’s Setting the Asbestos Agenda in India?

Jul 4, 2023

The commentary cited below reviewed the inglorious role played by India during international negotiations to regulate the global trade in chrysotile (white) asbestos. Under the scope of the United Nations’ Rotterdam Convention. “For [too] long,” the author wrote “India’s position on chrysotile has remained hostage to the tremendous clout of the Russian asbestos industry and some 18 major manufacturers of asbestos based products in India. Government is yet reveal the names in environmental and occupational health which it consulted in this regard.” See: Indian corporates ‘guilty of using’ deadly asbestos mostly imported from Russia.

Kuboto Shock

Jun 29, 2023

In the run-up to the 18th anniversary of the Kubota Shock – a seismic moment when Japanese society woke up to the existence of an ongoing epidemic injuring and killing thousands of people every year – a photographic exhibition is being held in Amagasaki City on June 23-25, 2023. On display will be pictures of asbestos patients, who were exposed to asbestos fibers liberated by the commercial operations at the Kubota Kanzaki Plant in Amagasaki City, and their families. See: アスベスト患者ら21人の思い伝える　尼崎で写真展、7月2日に集会 [Photo exhibition in Amagasaki, gathering on July 2].

Asbestos Diseases Symposium

Jun 28, 2023

From June 21 to 23, 2023, an International Symposium & Workshop on Asbestos-related Diseases was held for medical specialists at Binawan University in Jakarta, Indonesia. Amongst the areas explored by a range of experts were various aspects of: oncology, epidemiology, public health, radiology, specialist nursing and pathology. The events were organized and supported by the Indonesian Ban Asbestos Network (Ina-Ban), Local Initiative for OSH Network (LIONS), Australia’s Union Aid Abroad (APHEDA) and other Australian partnering organizations. See: Dukungan Kolaboratif Tenaga Medis untuk Eliminasi Penyakit Akibat Asbes [Medical Personnel Collaborative Support for Eliminating Diseases Due to Asbestos].

Health Surveillance of At-Risk Population

Jun 26, 2023

From June 16 to 29, 2023, an asbestos outreach program in the South Korean town of Hongseong-gun is screening residents from the area to identify those who may have a condition caused by asbestos exposures. Participants in this health project will receive a free medical checkup and be X-rayed. They will also be asked to complete a questionnaire. Anyone who shows symptoms of disease will receive a second detailed examination and undergo procedures such as a chest CT and lung function test. The medical care is being provided by the Asbestos Environmental Health Center of Soonchunhyang University. See: 홍성군, ‘석면 건강 영향조사’ 실시 [Hongseong-gun conducts ‘asbestos health impact survey’].

Holding Asbestos Stakeholders to Account

Jun 22, 2023

The conviction of a Swiss billionaire by an Italian court earlier this month was a warning to Indian asbestos entrepreneurs that they too could be held to account for the harm they caused to workers, family members and the community. The defendant was Stephan Schmidheiny, of the Swiss Eternit asbestos group; Eternit also operated plants in India. “It is high time,” wrote the author that “the Government of India and State governments took steps to make the manufacturers of asbestos based products liable for knowingly exposing the present and future generation of Indians to killer fibers. There is a compelling logic for charging these manufacturers with the offence of manslaughter.” See: Lessons for India from Swiss asbestos tycoon found guilty for causing death of 392 people.

Asbestos Remediation of Schools

Jun 19, 2023

On June 16, 2023, the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education announced that it would take punitive action in accordance with provisions of the Asbestos Safety Management Act and the Occupational Safety and Health Act against companies convicted of falsifying reports regarding asbestos removal projects. This public declaration was made in response to footage taken by a whistleblower of unsafe working practices by asbestos removal contractors at an elementary school in Seoul. See: 서울시교육청 "학교 석면 해체 허위 보고서 업체, 제재" [Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education “Sanctions against companies reporting false reports on dismantling asbestos in schools].

Supporting the Asbestos Injured

Jun 16, 2023

In-person consultations for people suffering from asbestos-related diseases took place in Toyama City, Japan on June 11. The advice session was organized by an asbestos victims’ support group which provided specialized counselors to consult with asbestos victims who had queries about a range of issues. According to Hiroatsu Narita of the Hokuriku Branch Secretariat of Mesothelioma & Asbestos Diseases’ Patients & Families’ Association: “In Toyama Prefecture… there are fewer cases certified as workers’ accidents due to asbestos, and there are potential patients” who remain unidentified. See: アスベスト健康被害の無料相談会　４年ぶりに富山市で開催 [Free consultation on asbestos health hazards held in Toyama City for the first time in four years].

Asbestos Ban in 2025!

Jun 14, 2023

On June 5, 2023, it was announced by the Ministry of Information that the Government of Cambodia would ban the use of asbestos in 2025 in order to “to improve workers’ welfare.” During comments made that day by Minister of Labor and Vocational Training (MOLVT) H.E. Dr. ITH Sam work by the Government to raise awareness of the asbestos hazard amongst ministries, institutions, partnering organizations, commercial ventures, and workers’ groups was detailed. The compilation by the MOLVT of National Asbestos Profiles in 2019 and 2022 were fundamental in laying the groundwork for the prohibitions to be adopted. See: ព័ត៌មានជាតិ កម្ពុជាបញ្ឈប់ការប្រើប្រាស់សារធាតុអាបេស្តូសនៅត្រឹមឆ្នាំ២០២៥ ខាងមុខ [Cambodia will stop using asbestos by 2025].

Asbestos Hazard Alert

Jun 14, 2023

A recent online article warned the public of the dangers of asbestos exposures in China, one of the world’s leading asbestos-producing and using countries. The author of the article cited below said that even though China had banned the use of all amphiboles, the use of chrysotile (white) asbestos remained legal and regulations to protect the population from toxic exposures were not yet in place. Workers and members of the public were warned to take steps to minimize asbestos exposures at work and at home. See: 级致癌物石棉，潜伏期可达数十年，你用过的这些物品可能都有 [Asbestos, a first-class carcinogen, has an incubation period of up to several decades, and you may have been exposed by many items you have used].

Subsidizing Asbestos Removal

Jun 12, 2023

On June 5, 2023, the Korean city of Gapyeong-gun announced plans to invest a further 279 million won (US$ 215,000) in the eradication of asbestos from the municipality’s built environment. Owners of buildings with asbestos roofing can apply for subsidies worth up to 3.36 million won (US$2,600) each to pay for asbestos removal work. Specialist companies approved by the Minister of Environment must be employed for these projects. See: 가평군, 석면 슬레이트 처리 지원사업 추진키로 [Gapyeong-gun decides to increase support for asbestos slate treatment project].

Tokyo Landmark Verdict

Jun 5, 2023

On May 31, 2023, the Tokyo High Court ordered four building material manufacturers to pay 103.67 million yen (US$741,500) to 22 claimants with asbestos-related diseases. Since the Japanese Supreme Court decision of May 17, 2021 which had established the liability of the Japanese Government and building products’ manufacturers for diseases contracted as a result of asbestos exposures experienced by construction workers, manufacturers had been engaged in a full-scale battle to avoid paying compensation to the injured. See: 建設アスベスト、一部メーカーに賠償命令　東京高裁 [Construction asbestos, some manufacturers ordered to pay compensation by Tokyo High Court].

Asbestos Production Data

Jun 5, 2023

According to Kazakhstan’s Bureau of National Statistics, asbestos production (66,500 tonnes (t)) grew by 21.9% in the first quarter of 2023 compared to the same quarter in 2022 (54,600t). Following recent trends, the majority of the asbestos (43,500t) was exported with only 4,900t (7.5%) being used at home. Data on Russian asbestos production levels has been difficult to access during the war on Ukraine. Historically Russia had been the world’s largest supplier of raw asbestos fiber, annually accounting for nearly 65% of all global production, with Kazakhstan producing ~20% of the world’s asbestos. See: В Казахстане увеличилось производство асбеста [Asbestos production increased in Kazakhstan].

EuroCham Backs Asbestos Prohibitions

Jun 2, 2023

A new report issued by the European Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia (EuroCham Cambodia) – a non-profit, non-political organization established to support European businesses operating in Cambodia – urged the Government of Cambodia to take urgent action on ending the use of asbestos, a carcinogen which is banned throughout Europe “in order to prevent future diseases and deaths in Cambodia, due to asbestos inhalation…” The survey undertaken by EuroCham was released on May 30, 2023; it highlighted the ongoing and widespread use of asbestos-containing building material by the construction sector. See: Call to ban asbestos import, use in Cambodia.

Tokyo Settlement in Asbestos Litigation

May 31, 2023

For the first time in the Tokyo metropolitan area, and the second time in all of Japan, a settlement was reached with a former asbestos products’ manufacturer in a class action lawsuit brought by former construction workers against the government and a building material manufacturer. The party which admitted its guilt and paid compensation was the Nozawa company, headquartered in Kobe. On May 31, 2023, the Tokyo High Court will issue its verdict on the case brought by the 32 members of the class action against six defendants. See: 建設アスベスト訴訟建材メーカーと一部原告で和解成立 [Construction Asbestos Litigation Resolved with Construction Materials Manufacturer and Some Plaintiffs].

New Option for Asbestos Shipments

May 31, 2023

A train carrying 40 containers of 1,000 tons of asbestos fiber departed from the railway west cargo station in Dunhuang, a city in Northwestern Gansu Province, Western China on May 5, 2023 as part of a new rail–sea intermodal international freight train link between China and Thailand. The cargo was off-loaded at the Port of Ningbo-Zhoushan in Zhejiang province and sent by sea to Bangkok, Thailand. The journey took just 20 days. The possibility of express shipments of asbestos from China – one of the world’s biggest asbestos producers and users – to other Asian countries is a disturbing development. See: 酒泉(敦煌)铁海联运国际货运班列开行 [Jiuquan (Dunhuang) rail–sea combined transport international freight route opened].

Asbestos in Schools

May 30, 2023

In 2022, the South Korean Province of Gyeonggi allocated 450 billion won (US$340m) for the removal of asbestos in 216 elementary, middle, high and special school buildings as a matter of public health. The results of the 2022 asbestos eradication program were discussed on May 25th at a meeting of the Provincial Office of Education in the capital city of Gyeonggi-do. See: 경기도, 초중고∙특수학교 건축물 석면 제거 등에 4500억원투입 [Gyeonggi-do invests 450 billion won in asbestos removal in elementary, middle, high and special school buildings].

Buyer Beware!

May 25, 2023

The extensive article cited below explained the challenges posed by the historic use of asbestos-containing products in Japan and the present-day problems asbestos contamination poses. Real estate buyers are strongly advised to commission asbestos surveys of all properties built before September 1, 2006: “an asbestos survey will help protect your assets when purchasing real estate.” Failing to follow this advice could leave a new property owner with huge bills to remediate toxic structures. See: “不動産売買のババ抜き”でジョーカーを引かないために必要な中古物件購入前のアスベスト調査 [Asbestos survey before buying a second-hand property necessary to avoid pulling the joker in “old real estate trading”].

Raising Asbestos Awareness in Laos

May 24, 2023

A billboard erected outside the Australian Embassy in the capital city of Laos, by Australia’s Union Aid Abroad-APHEDA and partnering organizations from Australia and Canada, this month highlighted the hazard posed by the country’s continuing use of asbestos. The main use of asbestos in Laos is for the manufacture of roofing in factories located in the Provinces of Luang Prabang, Champasak and Vientiane. According to APHEDA: “The standards for managing raw asbestos are often poor, including manual handling of the fibre and no safe storage or waste management, meaning workers and communities within a 2km radius of the factories are at risk of exposure.” See: Union Aid Abroad – APHEDA. May 16, 2023 upload to Facebook.

Asbestos Hazard in the Built Environment

May 18, 2023

A May 11, 2023 article on a Japanese website by Manabu Shinbori, an architect from the Saitama Prefecture, reviewed the damage to human health caused by exposures to asbestos in light of revised Japanese laws. More than three times as many people died from mesothelioma – the signature asbestos cancer – in 2017 as in 1995; many of the deceased were construction or manufacturing workers. Duty holders must make every effort to ascertain the presence and condition of asbestos material in all buildings to comply with regulations. See: アスベストに関する法改正 ? 被害を出さないために解体、改修に関して意識をするべきこと「建築知識の不動産投資 [Amendments to laws related to asbestos?].

ABAN Conference 2023

May 15, 2023

On May 7, 2023 scores of members of the Asian Ban Asbestos Network (ABAN) met at their 2023 conference in Bangkok; other ABAN members monitored the event online. The meeting was sponsored by the Solidarity Center (AFL-CIO), the International Ban Asbestos Secretariat, ABAN, ANROEV, the Asia Monitor Resource Center, the Building and Wood Workers International, Australia’s Union Aid Abroad (APHEDA), and Work and Environment Related Patients (WEPT), Thailand. More information on this conference will be provided in due course. See: ABAN Group Photo from 2023 Conference.

Asbestos in Schools

May 15, 2023

On May 6, 2023, the Dongducheon Yangju Office of Education in South Korea confirmed that elementary and middle school students in the Yangju area were still being taught in classrooms where asbestos material was present. The contaminated premises were: three kindergartens, including Kanap elementary school’s attached kindergarten, 12 elementary schools, including Eunbong and Kanap elementary schools, and three middle schools, including Joyang and Deokgye Middle Schools. The Provincial Office of Education has allocated 70.9 billion won (US$53.4m) for the removal of asbestos from 217 schools in the province in 2023. See: 양주지역 석면 학교 여전… 대책 마련 시급 [Yangju area asbestos school still … Urgent countermeasures].

Asbestos Health Alert

May 11, 2023

The article cited below highlighted the consequences of human exposures to asbestos. Although asbestos use was banned in many countries, the author pointed out: “there is still no specific standardized system in China to detect and remove asbestos. Asbestos is still readily available for use in building materials … before asbestos is strictly banned, we still have to learn to protect ourselves and minimize contact with asbestos in daily life to prevent asbestos exposure.” China is one of the world’s top asbestos-producing and consuming nations. See: 1级致癌物石棉，已被美、日等66国禁用，可能正潜伏在你身边 [Class 1 carcinogen asbestos , has been banned by 66 countries including the United States [restricted – not banned] and Japan, may be lurking around you].

Support for UN Action on Asbestos

May 9, 2023

Campaigners for labor and chemical safety rights in the Philippines on May 4, 2023 issued a press release calling for governments to support United Nations action to regulate the global trade in chrysotile (white) asbestos. The 11th Conference of the Parties to the Rotterdam Convention is meeting in Geneva this month; on the agenda is a motion to add chrysotile to a list of hazardous chemicals that can only be traded with the prior informed consent of an importing country. The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines and the EcoWaste Coalition urged the few countries which had blocked listing of chrysotile in the past to support listing in 2023. See: Press Release: TUCP, EcoWaste Coalition Demand Listing of Chrysotile Asbestos in Rotterdam Convention.

Asbestos Cancer Alert!

May 9, 2023

Although the Ministry of Health agrees that exposure to all types of asbestos, including chrysotile (white) asbestos, can be harmful to human health, asbestos-containing products are still being used in Vietnam by workers and the public who are, on the whole, unaware of the carcinogenic properties of asbestos. The use of these toxic materials banned in Germany, Australia, Member States of the European Union and many other developed countries remains legal in Vietnam. See: Nhiều người vẫn vô tư sử dụng một chất gây ung thư hàng ngày dù từng bị cấm ở Nhật Bản và Mỹ [Many people still carelessly use a carcinogen daily despite being banned in Japan and [restricted in] the United States].

Identifying Asbestos Victims

May 4, 2023

One in four of the asbestos victims in Busan, South Korea had lived in the South District in the 1960s to 1980s. Many of the 785 injured people never worked with asbestos but only breathed in toxic fibers liberated by asbestos processing operations carried out at factories in the city. Residents of the South District were the worst affected due to the operations of the Busan Steel Plant. Asbestos liberated by the Cheil Chemical asbestos textile factory created a cancer hotspot in the Yeonje District, another Busan neighborhood. See: 부산 석면 피해자, 넷 중 1명이 1960~80년대 옛 남구 거주 [Asbestos victims in Busan, 1 in 4 lived in the former South District in the 1960s to 1980s].

Asbestos in the Entertainment Industry

May 4, 2023

Until now, only nine cases of asbestos-related diseases have been recognized amongst former entertainment industry workers, who were exposed to asbestos used at theaters, concert halls and other entertainment venues. It was, said one expert, likely that many more cases from the entertainment industry have gone undiagnosed and uncompensated. Asbestos fireproofing was sprayed on the ceilings and asbestos safety curtains were often used in theaters. Asbestos material was also used where stage lights and screens were located. See: Asbestos poses risk to ex-entertainment industry workers in Japan.

Cancer and Death in the Asbestos City

May 3, 2023

The long latency period for the occurrence of asbestos-related diseases has now been reached in Busan, Korea, as a result of which there has been a 128% increase in the numbers of people suffering from asbestosis and lung cancer. In the 1970s and 1980s, Busan was called the “Asbestos City” due to the presence of many asbestos factories. Unfortunately, as the numbers of the affected has grown, the budget for their medical care has been reduced. The number of cases of people with recognized asbestos-related diseases in 2022 was 6000% more than in 2018. See: ‘석면 잠복기(10~40년)’ 끝났다…부산 4년새 피해자 128% 폭증 [‘Asbestos incubation period (10 to 40 years)’ is over… 128% increase in victims in 4 years in Busan].

Fujikawa Demolition Stopped by Asbestos

Apr 28, 2023

An unwelcomed discovery of asbestos in an old government building in Fujikawa Town, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan last month brought a halt to demolition proceedings. It will take at least two months for the building to be remediated, after which work can be recommenced. Prior to the commencement of this project, asbestos material had been identified in 16 places in the building; it was the finding of asbestos products at 4 other sites which caused the delay. See: 富士川町の旧庁舎解体工事、新たにアスベスト発覚で2カ月延長 [Demolition work on old government building in Fujikawa-cho extended by 2 months due to newly discovered asbestos].

Asbestos Check-ups in Busan

Apr 27, 2023

Starting in November 2023, the authorities in Busan, Korea will conduct free health monitoring for residents who lived near former asbestos factories and shipyards, and areas with a high density of asbestos-cement roofing. Eligible individuals will be interviewed at length and then given a basic medical examination at the Asbestos Environmental Health Center of Yangsan Busan National University Hospital. If adverse findings are reported, follow-up tests will be conducted. See: 부산시, 석면 피해 의심 주민 대상 무료건강검진 Busan City, free health check-ups for residents suspected of being affected by asbestos].

Mesothelioma Alert

Apr 24, 2023

A medical commentary about the signature asbestos cancer mesothelioma was uploaded to a Vietnamese news portal on April 16, 2023. The text covered basic issues such as the nature, types, symptoms, causation and treatment of this aggressive cancer. Asbestos-containing products are still widely used in Vietnam; as a result, members of the public as well as workers experience occupational and non-occupational exposures that could prove fatal in years to come. See: Bạn biết gì về ung thư trung biểu mô – căn bệnh ung thư nguy hiểm nhất? [What do you know about mesothelioma – the deadliest cancer?].

Asbestos Outreach Program

Apr 20, 2023

Authorities of South Korea’s Jeju Province announced that a program to assess the health impact on residents in asbestos hotspots would be carried out in four cities including Jeju, Jeju Province and Pohang, North Gyeongsang Province; these municipalities were chosen because of their shipyard repair facilities. Residents who lived within a 4 km radius of the shipyards for more than ten years are eligible to take part in the program run by the Asbestos Environmental Health Center. Anyone diagnosed with an asbestos disease can claim benefits from the relief system operated by the Environmental Industry and Technology Institute. See: 제주시 구도심 주민 대상 ‘석면’ 노출 여부 조사 [Investigation on ‘asbestos’ exposure to residents of Jeju City's old city center].

Mining Asbestos Tailings

Apr 20, 2023

A project to reclaim valuable material from asbestos mining waste looks likely to proceed following an April 12 announcement that a Chinese company Tongdao Holdings planned to purchase Xinjiang Dede Xinyuan Environmental Protection Technology Co. Ltd. (XDXEPT), a specialist in the development of tailings treatment and related environmental protection services. XDXEPT has 200 million tons of asbestos tailings which it plans to process to reclaim high-grade silica and magnesium. The acquisition is expected to be completed on March 31, 2024. See: 铜道控股拟收购一家主要从事尾矿治理开发的环保科技公司 [Tongdao Holdings announced its intention to acquire an environmental technology company mainly engaged in tailings treatment and development].

Calls for Shift in National Asbestos Policy

Apr 14, 2023

The feature cited below, which was uploaded to an Indian news portal on April 9, 2023, detailed efforts by the Occupational & Environmental Health Network India (OEHNI) – a health rights network – to convince India’s Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers to heed a call made by a United Nations Agency to take action on asbestos; “it is not only a hazard for the workers exposed to it in [the] course of mining or manufacturing,” author of the letter Jagdish Patel wrote “but, a hazard to the non-workers, i.e. citizens also.” See: Despite UN move, Govt of India 'refusing to ban' manufacture of hazardous asbestos.

Asbestos Cancer Alert!

Apr 7, 2023

It is curious that the article cited below which warned about the cancer hazard posed by working with asbestos appeared on a Chinese news portal; China is one of the world’s biggest asbestos producing and using countries. In 2020, China produced 120,000 tonnes (t) of asbestos and consumed 243,000t. The text, which was about various factors likely to cause lung cancer, warned citizens of the serious health risks posed by occupational exposures to a variety of substances including asbestos, arsenic, chromium, formaldehyde, and vinyl chloride. See: 早期没有征兆！预防肺癌靠这些 [There were no early signs! Prevent lung cancer by these steps].

Asbestos Health Warning!

Apr 3, 2023

On March 29, 2023, Vietnam’s Ministry of Health issued an alert over the asbestos hazard, warning that public complacency about the dangers to human health posed by occupational and environment asbestos exposures would almost certainly result in an increased incidence of cancer. Asbestos use is legal in Vietnam and construction, insulation and automotive products containing toxic fibers remain popular, despite the fact that the Ministry of Health confirmed that “all types of asbestos, including chrysotile, are … harmful to health.” See: Một chất gây ung thư từng bị cấm ở Nhật Bản và Hoa Kỳ, nhiều người không biết vẫn vô tư tiếp xúc hàng ngày [Many people are still carelessly exposing themselves daily to a carcinogen banned in Japan and at one time in the United States].

School Asbestos Exposure Compensation

Mar 28, 2023

The results of an arbitration process overseen by Kobe District Court over liability for asbestos exposures which occurred at Kogawa Municipal Beppu Junior High School in Hyogo Prefecture in 2020 were announced this week. The toxic exposures took place during demolition work on part of the school building; asbestos material was disturbed by the workers. As per the agreement awarding 22 million yen (US$167,222), 13m yen (US$98,815) will be paid by the designer, 7m (US$53,200) by the city, and 2m (US$15,200) by the contractor. See: 加古川・別府中石綿工事問題　市と業者が調停和解へ、損害額は総額2200万円 [Kakogawa/Beppuchu Asbestos Construction Issues: City and Contractors Reach Arbitration Settlement, Total Damages of 22 Million Yen].

Victims’ Victory in Kyoto

Mar 24, 2023

On March 23, 2023, Presiding Judge Shohei Matsuyama of the Kyoto District Court ordered 16 building material manufacturers to pay compensation to 43 members of a class action lawsuit, including retired or deceased workers who had contracted lung cancer and/or mesothelioma as a consequence of inhaling asbestos at construction sites. According to the Judge: “It was recognized that the danger of asbestos was foreseeable in 1975 at the latest…” Amongst the legal arguments used by manufacturers to contest the claims was the fact that the injured who had smoked were partially responsible for their injuries. See: 石綿、メーカーに賠償命令　京都第２陣、国とは先に和解 [Asbestos Manufacturers Ordered to Compensate Kyoto 2nd Round, Reconciliation with Government First].

Understanding and Preventing Cancer

Mar 23, 2023

In the Russian language article cited below, which appeared on a Kazakh news portal on March 20, 2023, oncologist Bakytzhan Ongarbaev, of the Kazakh Research Institute of Oncology and Radiology, warned citizens of the dangers posed by environmental factors such as exposures to “asbestos, radiation, chemicals, air and water pollution…” Advice about how to avoid the consequences of obesity, smoking and alcohol consumption was also given. Kazakhstan is one of the world’s largest producers of chrysotile (white) asbestos See: Семь главных факторов риска развития рака назвал казахстанский онколог [Kazakh oncologist names seven main risk factors for cancer development].

Govt Benefits for Asbestosis Sufferers

Mar 17, 2023

From April 1, 2023, Vietnamese citizens will be able to access government benefits for an additional 35 occupationally-caused diseases including asbestosis under Circular 02/2023/TT-BYT amending Circular 15/2016/TT-BYT regulating occupational diseases entitled to social insurance. Once employees receive an occupational disease diagnosis the advice is for them to limit toxic exposures and seek treatment, according to Ministry of Health protocols. Under the insurance regime, the injured are entitled to nursing, rehabilitation and a reassessment of their working capacity in light of their condition. See: 35 bệnh nghề nghiệp được hưởng BHXH [35 occupational diseases are entitled to social insurance].

Asbestos Eradication Program Subsidies

Mar 17, 2023

On March 13, 2023, the authorities of Korea’s Suwon Special Administrative City announced the availability of funds of up to 2 million won (US$1540) to dismantle and remove asbestos-containing material from day care and senior citizen centers. Facility owners can download an application form from the Suwon Special City website and submit the completed form along with other relevant documents, including a copy of the asbestos investigation report, business registration certificate or corporate registration certificate, to officials at Suwon City Hall. See: 수원특례시, '석면 해체·제거 지원사업' 참여자 모집 [Suwon Special City, Recruitment of Participants in ‘Asbestos Dismantling and Removal Support Project’].

Asbestos Hazard Post-Earthquake

Mar 13, 2023

In the wake of the 5.6 earthquake which hit Cianjur, Indonesia on November 21, 2022 causing injuries, deaths and widespread destruction – 53,408 houses and 800+ public buildings, including schools, were damaged – emergency workers were observed handling broken asbestos-containing building material. Campaigners from the Indonesian Ban Asbestos Network and the OSH Network documented the situation and provided targeted training for humanitarian workers to raise awareness of the asbestos hazard and avoid exposures to the deadly fibers whilst responding to the disaster. See: Indonesian earthquake prompts asbestos hazards training.

Asbestos in Children’s Centers

Mar 13, 2023

A meeting to consider ways to address asbestos contamination of local children’s centers took place on March 7, 2023 in Korea’s National Assembly. Commenting on the event, Lee Hak-young, who co-hosted the meeting, said: “I hope that this meeting will once again awaken awareness of asbestos and contribute to solving the problem of improving the environment of local children's centers where children and adolescents spend a lot of time.” During the session, key stakeholders including government officials, reported the reality of the situation on the ground and made recommendations. See: 지역아동센터 석면진단 의무화 됐지만… [Asbestos diagnosis at local children's centers has become mandatory, but…].

New Asbestos Insurance Policy

Mar 10, 2023

A March 6, 2023 press release by AIG General, a global insurance organization, announced the introduction of “an industry first Asbestos Dispersion Accident Expense Rider” aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises in Japan which will cover expenses incurred when “asbestos is dispersed outside a construction site due to an unforeseen accident…” The policy will cover the costs for emergency measures to address the contamination as well as outreach work to business premises and homes within 50 meters of the site, including asbestos removal costs. See: AIG Upgrades Commercial General Liability and Business Expense Insurance: Offers industry’s first rider covering asbestos dispersion accidents.

Mesothelioma Rise in Women

Mar 8, 2023

According to a publication by researchers from the Faculty of Medicine of the Chinese University of Hong Kong and the Association of Pacific Rim Universities which appeared in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology, the incidence of the asbestos cancer mesothelioma is on the increase amongst some female cohorts. The authors reported a positive correlation of mesothelioma rates with per capita gross domestic product, human development index and levels of occupational asbestos exposures. See: 中大：罕見癌症「間皮瘤」與石棉暴露關連大女性發病率有上升跡象 [CUHK: The Rare Cancer “Mesothelioma” is Linked to Asbestos Exposure, and the Incidence Rate of Females Shows Signs of Rise].

Asbestos Exposure & Lung Cancer

Mar 8, 2023

A health alert was issued in Taiwan about the health consequences of exposures to asbestos and other carcinogens; such exposures can cause lung cancer even in non-smokers. According to the Department of Health, amongst the causes of lung cancer is “industrial and occupational exposure to certain chemicals or building materials (such as asbestos, nickel, uranium, chromium compounds, arsenic, polycyclic hydrocarbons, and chloromethyl ethers)…” See: 肺癌｜不吸煙全家4人患肺癌 7因素高危致命 2大家居風險易忽略 [Lung cancer: ... 7 factors are high-risk and fatal, 2 major household risks are easy to ignore].

Asbestos Eradication Plan

Mar 6, 2023

According to a February 27, 2023 press release from the Jeonbuk Office of Education, the municipality has approved a budget of 17.5 billion won (US$13.3m) to remove 82,000 square meters of asbestos material from schools in 2023. If this year's goal is achieved, only 55,000 square meters (1.1% of the total floor area) of asbestos material will remain schools. The deadline for eradicating this hazard in Jeonbuk is 2024, three years ahead of the deadline set by the Ministry of Education. See: 전북학교 석면 시설물 내년에 전부 없어진다 [All asbestos facilities in Jeonbuk schools will be removed next year].

Asbestos Eradication Program

Mar 3, 2023

On February 26, 2023, the authorities of Yeongcheon, a South Korean city in North Gyeongsang Province, announced that in the interests of public health it would be subsidizing the removal costs of asbestos roofing for property owners. Applications must be submitted before the end of March with 10 million won ($US7,600) per property available for a total of 200 houses and 34 other buildings. See: 영천시, 주택 지붕 등 슬레이트 철거비 지원...3월 말까지 접수 [Yeongcheon City, support for slate demolition costs such as roofs of houses...Available until the end of March].

Asbestos Controversy in Vietnam

Feb 28, 2023

A comprehensive article by Prof. Dr. Le Van Trinh, Chairman of the Vietnam Association of Science and Technology for Occupational Safety and Health and former member of the Presidium of the Vietnam General Confederation of Labor, on a news portal explained the hazard posed by human exposures to asbestos. The wide range of topics discussed included: the properties and uses of asbestos; the hazards of asbestos exposures; the types of diseases caused by toxic exposures; the presence of asbestos in talc-based baby powder; types of litigation arising due to asbestos exposures and the nature and extent of Vietnam’s asbestos sector. See: Amiang, những bệnh do amiang gây ra và tình hình sử dụng ở Việt Nam hiện nay [Asbestos, diseases caused by asbestos and current use in Vietnam].

Asbestos Eradication in Schools

Feb 28, 2023

On February 23, 2023, it was announced that the Department of Education of the Korean municipality of Guri Namyangju, had allocated 10.8 billion won (US8.2m) for 2023-2027 to remove asbestos from all the public schools in the Guri and Namyangju region by 2027. To protect students and teachers, the asbestos eradication work will be carried out during the winter school holidays. Off the 171 schools in Guri and Namyangju, 91 still contain asbestos material; 46 buildings have already been decontaminated. See: 구리남양주교육청, 2027년까지 108억 들여 석면 제거 [Guri Namyangju Office of Education, 10.8 billion won to remove asbestos by 2027].

Raising Asbestos Awareness

Feb 27, 2023

On February 23, 2023, a well-attended workshop, Protecting Public Health and Creating a Safe Living Environment, was held in Bac Kan City, Vietnam. The event was organized by the Women's Union of Bac Kan Province in collaboration with APHEDA – Australia’s Union Aid Abroad – and the Vietnam Association for Occupational Safety and Health. In Bac Kan Province asbestos-cement roofing is ubiquitous and almost 90% of new roofing is made with asbestos. According to speakers at this meeting, this material poses a health risk to the workers who install it as well as to the people who live under it. See: Hội thảo: "Bảo vệ sức khỏe cộng đồng và môi trường sống an toàn [Workshop: “Protecting public health and safe living environment”].

Rise in Asbestos Exports

Feb 24, 2023

New transport systems in China are being used to increase asbestos exports to Southeast Asia, Central Asia, and South Asia from Qinghai, a landlocked province in the northwest of China, according to a February 20th news report from the Qinghai Provincial Department of Commerce. In 2022, there were 111 international freight trains from Qinghai, more than ten times the number in 2021. Amongst the cargo on the trains were shipments of asbestos, soda ash, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and other goods. See: 青海：“青字号”产品借RCEP享优惠税率“出国” [Qinghai: “Qingzihao” products enjoy preferential tax rates “going abroad” through RCEP].

Asbestos Eradication: Update

Feb 22, 2023

Accepting that the cost for the removal of asbestos from domestic properties is beyond the reach of many households, the South Korean Government has, since 2011, been progressing an asbestos eradication program to protect public health. A scheme operated under the Ministry of the Environment allocated 3.52 million won (US$2,700) per building for asbestos decontamination; local governments provided additional sums for demolition and other work. New figures released by the authorities in Jeonbuk Province stated that as of 2021 there were still 85,000+ buildings with asbestos; at the current rate, the decontamination program in Jeonbuk will not be completed until 2038. See: 석면철거 마무리 계획 앞당겨야 [Asbestos removal plan to be completed].

Asbestos Health Alert

Feb 20, 2023

Although Vietnam had a policy calling for the removal of asbestos since 2014, no effective measures have been taken to achieve this objective. The fact that Vietnam imported 65,000 tons of asbestos every year exacerbated the population’s health burden due to the carcinogenic properties of asbestos. In addition to the hazards posed by new asbestos products being incorporated within the national infrastructure are the dangers posed by deteriorating asbestos material within the built and natural environment. Despite the ubiquity of these toxic products, there is a very low level of public awareness about the health hazards of human exposures to asbestos at work or at home. See: Hậu quả của việc tiếp xúc với amiăng không kém gì dioxin [The consequences of exposure to asbestos are no less than for dioxin].

Asbestos Alert!

Feb 17, 2023

An online article uploaded on February 15 to a Vietnamese news portal warned citizens of the multiple dangers posed by occupational asbestos exposures, pointing out that amongst those most at-risk were: welders, mechanics, bricklayers, welders, shipbuilders, carpenters, masons. plumbers, painters, demolition workers, drywallers, electricians, floor layers, furnace operators, enamellers, blacksmiths, insulators, glassmakers and maintenance workers. Citizens were advised that “reducing asbestos exposure is the best prevention.” See: Tìm hiểu về bệnh bụi phổi amiăng và cách phòng tránh [Learn about asbestosis and how to prevent it].

Asbestos Alert over Toxic Thermoses

Feb 16, 2023

A health alert was issued in Vietnam about the dangers posed by asbestos fibers contained in the linings of thermos flasks exported from China. As a result of research undertaken at the Institute of Research & Quality Control in Jiangsu Province, China, the Chinese government had previously warned consumers that the Chinese thermos flasks contained asbestos. Thermos use is quite high in Vietnam and good quality thermoses tend to be more expensive than Chinese exports. See: Mối nguy hại khôn lường từ bình giữ nhiệt có chứa amiăng của Trung Quốc [The incalculable danger from China's asbestos-containing thermos].

Asbestos in Schools

Feb 14, 2023

In a press conference at Incheon City Hall, the Incheon Environmental Movement Federation and campaigners from the National School Asbestos Parents Network, the Korea Asbestos Eradication Network, and the Environmental Health Citizens’ Center warned the city and the Office of Education about the dangers of asbestos removal in schools. Speakers at the event highlighted faulty regulation of the asbestos hazard during asbestos removal work at two schools during the winter school vacation. See: "인천 학교 석면 철거 엉터리... 민·관 감시단 구성해야” [“Incheon school asbestos removal is a sham... A private and public monitoring group needs to be formed”].

New Wave of Litigation

Feb 13, 2023

Whilst asbestos-injured construction workers in Japan can access government benefits for injuries they sustained from workplace asbestos exposures, ailing shipyard workers cannot. Eleven people are progressing lawsuits at the Osaka and Sapporo district courts, claiming that toxic occupational exposures to asbestos between 1953 and 2003 caused them to contract lung cancer or mesothelioma. According to one of the claimants’ lawyers: “The shipbuilding industry has been left out of the compensation framework. We have no choice but to file individual lawsuits.” See: 造船業の石綿被害、元労働者が国を提訴へ「救済から取り残さないで」 [Asbestos damage in the shipbuilding industry, former workers to sue the government “Don't be left out of relief'”].

Increase in Asbestos Removal Subsidies

Feb 8, 2023

From February 6, 2023, the budget allocated by South Korea’s Ministry of Environment to cover the costs of the demolition of asbestos roofing will be almost doubled to 7 million dong (US $5,550) per household. The expansion of funds is intended to speed up the eradication of the asbestos hazard from the built environment in line with the country’s deadline of 2033 for the removal of all asbestos roofing throughout South Korea. Key aspects of the Government’s detailed and timetabled road map for the elimination of asbestos have been allocated to multiple government departments and agencies. See: ‘석면 슬레이트 지붕’ 철거비 지원규모 2배로 확대 ['Asbestos slate roof' demolition cost support doubled].

Asbestos in Schools

Feb. 8, 2023

A January 30 press release by the Incheon Federation for Environmental Movement (IFEM) condemned simultaneous removal of asbestos from schools during the winter vacation saying: “Due to the nature of the risk of exposure to group 1 carcinogens… partial removal should be avoided as much as possible...The Incheon Metropolitan Office of Education should more thoroughly inspect schools undergoing asbestos removal work.” Due to failures to appropriately monitor the removal work, the IFEM plans to set up a monitoring group to inspect schools where asbestos removal is currently in progress. See: 인천 학교 32개 석면철거 대상...“부분 철거 위험 노출 키워[32 schools in Incheon subject to asbestos removal...“Increased exposure to partial demolition risks”].

Addressing a Toxic Legacy

Feb 6, 2023

Accepting that it is not possible to completely control toxic exposures to asbestos at work and at home, the Government of Vietnam took steps to protect the population by banning the use of amphiboles (1998) and making plans to end the use of chrysotile (white) asbestos in building products. In 2020, Vietnam’s Ministry of Health identified 210 cases of mesothelioma; many cases went undetected and experts believe that that there could be 11,500 cases of mesothelioma by 2030, if action is not taken. See: Thông tin về Amiang và bệnh ung thư [Information about Asbestos and Cancer].

Asbestos Sector Flourishing

Jan 31, 2023

The “article” cited below reads like a press release from the Kostanay Minerals JSC, Kazakhstan’s sole asbestos producer. Amongst the facts reported were: total output from the company was 17.5 million tonnes (t) of white asbestos; annual production was 250,000t; 95% of all products were sent to Uzbekistan, India, Tajikistan, Sri Lanka, China, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Vietnam, Thailand and Kyrgyzstan. The imposition by Western countries of sanctions on Russian trade, led Kostanay to replace Russian ports with ports in Georgia and Lithuania. The fact that asbestos causes cancer was not mentioned. See: Костанайские карьеры: как добывают асбест на одном из крупнейших месторождений в мире [Kostanay quarries: mining one of the largest deposits of asbestos in the world].

Asbestos Eradication Program

Jan 31, 2023

On January 28, 2023, the South Korean Province of Jeonbuk-do announced plans to address asbestos contamination in 90 daycare centers. The twenty-seven buildings worst affected – which have recorded high levels of airborne asbestos fibers – will be demolished this year. By the end of 2024, asbestos will be eradicated from the remaining properties. According to a provincial official: “We started the project to prevent exposure of sensitive infants and toddlers to harmful substances.” See: 전북도, 올해 어린이집 27개소 석면 자재 철거 지원 [Jeonbuk-do supports removal of asbestos materials from 27 daycare centers this year].

Asbestos Scandal Uncovered

Jan 23, 2023

On January 18, 2023, the Seoul Office of Education announced that it had lodged a complaint against companies which had filed erroneous reports relating to the presence of asbestos at 17 schools. The fraudulent activity had been discovered after on-site audits by the Seoul Office of Education which is now seeking to recover all monies paid to the negligent companies and to bring charges against the wrongdoers. New procedures were implemented as of January 10, 2023 to prevent a recurrence of these incidents. See: 학교 석면 검사 '부실'…서울교육청, 석면 잔해물 '허위조사' 업체 고발 [School asbestos inspection 'poor'… Seoul Office of Education files complaint against company for 'false investigation' of asbestos debris].

Eradicating Asbestos in Schools

Jan 13, 2023

Asbestos removal work is being carried out by contractors commissioned by the Ulsan Metropolitan Office of Education to eradicate the toxic substance from 16 schools in South Korea during the winter school vacation. After the work has been completed, the asbestos monitoring group – made up of parents, asbestos supervisors, external environmental experts, representatives of civil society and school staff – will conduct follow-up tests to measure the air quality inside affected classrooms. See: 울산교육청, 겨울방학 학교 60곳 교육환경개선 [Ulsan Office of Education, Improvement of educational environment in 60 winter vacation schools].

Low Level of Asbestos Awareness

Jan 11, 2023

On January 9, 2023, the results of a survey undertaken by personnel from the Citizens’ Center for Environmental Health, Korea were published. In the survey, more than half (56.7%) the people questioned didn’t know whether asbestos was present in the schools their children attended. In addition, 42.1% didn’t know whether their house, office or factory contained asbestos material. A not insignificant number of people (17.6%) also didn’t know that asbestos was classed as a group 1 carcinogen. See: 국민 절반 이상 자녀 학교건물의 ‘석면’ 사용 여부 모른다 [More than half of the population does not know whether ‘asbestos’ is used in school buildings for children].

National Asbestos Scandal

Jan 5, 2023

The stunning exposé cited below revealed the deadly consequences of the uncontrolled use of asbestos in India: “In 2021, India accounted for 44% of global [asbestos] imports, a 29% increase on 2020. Russia and Brazil are its key sources.” According to research published by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (Mumbai), in the coming decades more than 6 million people in India could contract an asbestos-related disease including 600,000+ cases of cancer. Those affected include not only asbestos workers and miners but family members and members of the public who lived near asbestos mines and/or asbestos-using factories. See: ‘We are all exposed to it’: the human face of India’s asbestos timebomb.

Asbestos Cancer Latency Study

Jan 4, 2023

An academic paper published in the December 2022 issue of the peer-reviewed International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, which examined the latency period of malignant mesothelioma and asbestos-related lung cancer in Korea, found that the latency periods for malignant mesothelioma and lung cancer were 33.7 and 40.1 years, respectively. The shortest latency periods were found in former asbestos factory workers; people who worked or lived near an asbestos mine had relatively long disease latency. See: Disease Latency according to Asbestos Exposure Characteristics among Malignant Mesothelioma and Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer Cases in South Korea.

Post-Disaster Asbestos Hazard

Jan 4, 2023

An interview on the Australian Broadcasting Channel with the Director of Shelter at Miyamoto Relief Dave Hodgkin, an Australian working in Indonesia to assess the damage from the November 21, 2022 5.6-magnitude earthquake in the town of Cianjur, highlighted the danger posed by the ubiquitous presence of asbestos throughout the region. Mr. Hodgkin said that continuing efforts to raise awareness of the asbestos hazard amongst government officials and the public are countered by intensive lobbying by asbestos vested interests determined to preserve the continued sale of asbestos in the country. See: Former Canberran assesses asbestos risk in earthquake damaged Indonesia.

Asbestos Use, Diseases and Compensation

Dec 9, 2022

In India, the use of asbestos remains legal. Measures to protect workers and members of the public from toxic exposures remain virtually unknown. As a result, there is a growing epidemic of asbestos-related diseases and deaths throughout the country. Compensation for these diseases is difficult to obtain. Three thousand asbestos-injured workers have collectively received 14 million pounds from a fund set up to pay compensation by the British company Turner & Newall, which built the first asbestos factory in India in the 1930s. Campaigners are calling on international and Indian-owned asbestos-using companies to make restitution to workers and communities which they have harmed. See: Raising awareness about asbestos pollution in India: Challenges ahead.

Asbestos Exposures at Military Bases

Dec 1, 2022

On November 16, 2022, speakers at a public meeting of the Association for Supporting Asbestos Victims, Families and Bereaved Families Related to the Military Stationed in Okinawa, provided updates for asbestos-exposed workers and family members regarding access to legal aid and medical care to pursue claims related to toxic exposures at US military bases in Japan. Hundreds of claims have been registered to date, with 12 lawsuits against the national government succeeding for people from Okinawa prefecture. See: 米軍基地アスベスト被害、遺族給付金の期限32年まで延長「被害者掘り起こしを」　支援の会が総会　沖縄・北谷 [U.S. military base asbestos damage, bereaved family benefits extended to 32 years. Victim support group general meeting Okinawa Chatan].

Total Asbestos Ban in 2023

Oct 31, 2022

From May 2023, there will be a total ban on the import of all goods containing asbestos to Taiwan; according to the Environmental Protection Agency, this measure was being taken to protect the health of citizens. Since 1999, regulations for importers bringing asbestos products into the country had grown increasingly stricter. Since January 1, 2018, all imports were banned except for asbestos products brought into the country for research, experimentation, and education. See: 《產業》石棉產品明年5月起全面禁止輸入違者最高罰30萬 [“Industry” asbestos products will be completely banned from being imported from May next year, and violators will be fined up to 300,000].

Understanding Pleural Cancer

Oct 31, 2022

An article by Vietnamese medical expert Dr. Nguyen Kinh Kha explained various types of pleural cancers, their symptoms, genesis of the diseases and various types of medical protocols used for diagnosing and treating patients. Under the section headed: What is lung cancer, the first cancer discussed was mesothelioma, the signature cancer associated with asbestos exposure. The first cause listed for mesothelioma was “long time direct exposure to asbestos,” a substance banned in 55+ countries around the world but still commonly used in Vietnam, especially amongst ethnic communities. See: Ung thư màng phổi: dấu hiệu, chẩn đoán và cách điều trị [Lung cancer: signs, diagnosis and treatment].

Poacher Turned Gamekeeper

Oct 31, 2022

In an ironic twist of fate, a conglomerate which had been a prolific user and promoter of asbestos building products in Europe, Latin America and around the world is now championing the use of sustainable and alternative technologies in Vietnam. For the eighth year, Saint-Gobain sponsored an award which recognized the work of property developers in Vietnam “dedicated to raising the standard of living for all walks of life, while satisfying extensive environmental friendliness criteria.” See: Saint-Gobain Việt Nam đồng hành cùng PropertyGuru Vietnam Property Awards lần thứ 8 [Saint-Gobain Vietnam accompanies the 8th PropertyGuru Vietnam Property Awards].

Asbestos Exposures at Construction Sites

Oct 28, 2022

Claimants who contracted asbestos-related diseases from toxic conditions at Japanese construction sites were joined by community activists, politicians and trade unionists at a meeting held in Tokyo on October 25, 2022. The event was preceded by a public rally in front of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare and the Ministry of the Environment. During the symposium which followed, speakers considered the progress being made in setting up a government relief fund and expanding benefits available for injured construction workers. Multiple legal actions are ongoing with a verdict expected on November 7 in the Mitsubishi-Nagasaki Shipbuilding Pneumoconiosis and Asbestos Lawsuit. See: ンネルじん肺救済法実現を [Implementation of Construction Pneumoconiosis Relief Law].

Asbestos Sector Update

Oct 26, 2022

According to an article from the China News Service, the asbestos mining sector in Qinghai Province, which accounts for one third of the country’s asbestos reserves and has a domestic market share of more than 60%, has “achieved a boom in production and sales.” The 64-year old conglomerate has experienced ups and downs during its history but industrial restructuring, market-oriented operation and mixed ownership reform have stimulated growth. Chrysotile production from January to September 2022 was 22% greater than the same period in 2021; sales also grew by 43%. See: 青海柴达木盆地老矿企三年改革实现“破冰” 产销两旺 [The old mining enterprises in the Qaidam Basin in Qinghai have achieved “breakthroughs” and both production and sales are booming].

Asbestos Alert in Amagasaki

Oct 24, 2022

Mayor Kazumi Inamura of Amagasaki City, a town at the heart of Japan’s asbestos epidemic, has asked the Minister of Environment Akihiro Nishimura and other members of the government to increase the resources and facilities provided for the support of victims of asbestos-related diseases who had been exposed to asbestos liberated by the operations of the Kubota company’s former Kanzaki Factory. See: アスベスト被害者への支援策、拡充求め緊急要望書　尼崎市長が環境相らに提出 [Mayor of Amagasaki Submits Urgent Request for Expansion of Support Measures for Asbestos Victims to Minister of the Environment].

Johnson & Johnson: Update

Oct 21, 2022

As a result of the fall in demand for Johnson & Johnson’s baby powder in India, the company’s largest factory in the country has been sold. In the past, J&J had controlled 70% market share in the baby powder segment in India. This year J&J announced that its talc-based baby powder, which has been found to contain asbestos fibers, will be withdrawal from all global markets in 2023. The factory in Maharashtra, which was completed in 2016, has been off-loaded in a fire sale to the Hetero company, which said it will upgrade the facility and eventually employ 2,000 workers on the site. See: Johnson & Johnson reportedly selling its biggest plant in India over low demand.

Asbestos Awareness and Expertise

Oct 19, 2022

Building capacity and ensuring compliance with stricter Japanese asbestos regulations that came into force in October 2022 are core goals of the Tokyo-based Nextage Group. The company will offer: the services of asbestos surveyors; study sessions on asbestos; and specialist training for operatives wishing to gain certification as asbestos surveyors. See: ネクステージグループ／調査受託から人材育成まで／アスベスト新規制対応の新サービス提供開始（2022年10月13日号） [Nextage Group / From Investigation Commission to Human Resource Development / Start of New Service Offerings in Response to New Regulations on Asbestos (October 13, 2022 issue)].

Roadmap to Asbestos Ban

Oct 14, 2022

During comments made to a meeting in the Cambodian capital on October 4, 2022 to launch the National Asbestos Profile, Labour Minister Ith Samheng confirmed his government’s intention to ban the use of asbestos to protect the health not only of workers but also members of the public. The Minister said that he was working with other ministries and stakeholders to end the use of asbestos at construction sites. Amongst the other speakers who addressed the delegates were medical expert Dr Quach Mengly and ILO National Coordinator in Cambodia Tun Sophoan. The event was co-organized by the Ministry, the ILO/OSH Japan Programme and Australia’s Union Aid Abroad (APHEDA). See: Government wants to end use of asbestos.

Impending Asbestos Ban

Oct 14, 2022

The Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) of Taiwan last week announced that the import of asbestos-containing products would be banned as of May 2023, as part of the Government’s efforts to protect the population from toxic exposures. As of now, asbestos material can only be used in Taiwan for educational, experimental and research purposes. In 2021, 0.11 kilograms of asbestos was imported; so far this year, 16.82 grams of asbestos material has been imported. See: Imports of products containing asbestos banned from May 2023: EPA.

Ending Asbestos Use

Oct 8, 2022

In order to protect public and workers’ health, regulations are being put in place in Vietnam to strictly control and minimize the use of chrysotile (white) asbestos in building products, with a view to adopting a comprehensive ban by 2030. Throughout Asia, asbestos use is decreasing, with national bans in Japan and Korea. In China, the use of asbestos-cement boards decreased by more than 70% between 2006 and 2021. According to a government spokesperson: “In the future, our country [Vietnam] must innovate technology, use fibers that are safe for human health to replace chrysotile fibers…” See: Hướng đến phát triển vật liệu lợp “nói không” với amiăng trắng [Towards the development of roofing materials that “say no” to chrysotile].

Recognition of Veteran’s Asbestos Death

Sep 30, 2022

In a legal breakthrough on September 26, 2022 Korean Judge Lee Tae-young of the Daejeon District Court 1st Administrative Unit reversed a decision which had barred the family of a 56-year-old military officer from receiving compensation for his death from the asbestos cancer mesothelioma and recognized that this disease had been directly caused by asbestos exposures which had taken place during his 30 years of military service. The Veterans Affairs Office did not appeal. Commenting on the outcome of the litigation, the family’s lawyer said that more cases of servicemen with asbestos cancer were likely to occur in the future. See: 석면 노출 30년 만에 숨진 장교, 법원 “공무상 재해” [Death of officer after 30 years of asbestos exposure, officially ruled as “accident” by court].

Asbestos Roofing and Water Collection

Sep 28, 2022

The lack of clean drinking water in coastal regions of Bangladesh is a serious problem. Local people often harvest rainwater from their asbestos-cement roofs for domestic use. The lung cancer contracted by a schoolteacher from Gabura, Bangladesh has been linked to her practice of drinking water collected by this method for more than 13 years. Climate change researchers have developed a technology to harvest the rainwater safely using a concrete base, a polyplastic tank with a low-cost cloth or other filtration device, and pipe fittings which are attached to the tank's roof. See: For safe consumption, rainwater needs proper harvesting.

Asbestos Ban: Update

Sep 28, 2022

As plans to outlaw asbestos use in Sri Lanka were advancing in 2017, the Russian Government announced it would ban imports of Sri Lanka tea. At that time, Russia was the largest importer of Ceylon tea – 48 and 36 million kilograms in 2011 and 2015, respectively; in 2016, Sri Lanka tea exports to Russia were valued at US$143 million. Most of the asbestos fiber in Sri Lanka comes from Russia. As a result of the threat, Sri Lanka postponed asbestos prohibitions. An article published last week, reported that the Sri Lanka had decided to stop using asbestos by 2029. No further information was available. See: Colombo ready to join Russian payment system.

J&J’s Baby Powder “Unsafe”

Sep 20, 2022

Last week, the Food & Drugs Administration in the Indian State of Maharashtra cancelled Johnson & Johnson’s (J&J) license for the manufacture of baby powder over safety concerns after samples from Pune and Nashik were declared not of standard quality by the government. In a clarification issued by J&J, the company reassured consumers that the baby powder was safe, did not contain asbestos and did not cause cancer. The firm plans to challenge the Maharashtra ruling in court. See: Johnson & Johnson Issues Clarification After Cancellation of Manufacturing License of Its Baby Powder, Says ‘It Is Safe and Does Not Contain Asbestos That Causes Cancer’.

Building Capacity for Asbestos Testing

Sep 20, 2022

Committed to protecting Cambodians from toxic asbestos exposures, on September 13, 2022 officials from the General Department of Consumer Protection, Competition and Fraud Prevention met with representatives of Australia’s Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency (ASEA) in Phnom Pen to discuss measures to build the country’s technical capacity in the fight for asbestos safety. In October, Australian analytical experts will train Cambodian technicians on the use of analytical methods for detecting asbestos fibers. On September 15, the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training ran a workshop to devise a roadmap for the eradication of asbestos-related diseases in Cambodia. See: Oz team offers CCF asbestos class.

Official Error in Mesothelioma Case

Sep 20, 2022

A lawsuit was launched by a bereaved Japanese family over the unauthorized disposal by the Labor Standards Inspection Office of vital documents required for a mesothelioma compensation case. Relatives of the construction worker, who died aged 54 in 2003 of an industrial accident, having been occupationally exposed to asbestos, needed the paperwork as evidence in a lawsuit against a building material manufacturer. Responding to a 2021 request by the family for documents about the case, officials admitted that records of interviews with colleagues had been mistakenly discarded. See: 労基署が『永久保存のはずの文書廃棄』[Labor Standards Office “disposes of documents that are supposed to be permanently preserved…”].

Asbestos on ILO Agenda

Sep 17, 2022

On September 6, 2022, the International Labour Organisation’s Project Advisory Committee on enhancing Occupational Safety and Health held a meeting in Phnom Penh about standards in the construction sector. According to Yan Thy – Secretary-General of the Building and Wood Workers Trade Union Federation of Cambodia who was at the meeting – subjects on the agenda included procedural matters such as regulations and policies adopted by the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training pertaining to the health and safety of construction workers as well as challenges associated with asbestos in products used by construction workers. See: ILO holds third meeting on Occupational Safety, Health in construction.

Questions over Sales of Toxic Baby Powder

Sep 17, 2022

India’s consumer market for infant products is dominated by Johnson & Johnson (J&J). According to one expert: “When you talk about the baby talcum product market in India, Johnson & Johnson still has the lion’s share in this portfolio. It has about 60 to 70% of market share in the country today.” In the face of a tidal wave of US litigation over the asbestos content of its iconic baby powder, J&J has maintained the product is safe. The recent announcement that this product would be withdrawn from sale in 2023 raises concerns amongst consumers, with people asking why the product was not withdrawn in India at the same time as it was withdrawn in the US and Canada. See: A look at Johnson & Johnson’s Presence In India And Discontinuation of Its Products Controversy.

Asbestos Litigation: Update

Sep 14, 2022

In their opening arguments on September 9, 2022, lawyers representing defendants in a case brought over the asbestos death of a construction worker argued that the building material manufacturer was not at fault, because “the workers should have used dust masks.” The case, which is being heard at the Takamatsu District Court, is over a lung cancer death in 2013; ten manufacturers of asbestos-cement building products are being sued for damages of 29.7 million yen (US$209,000). See: 全国一斉“建設アスベスト訴訟”　建材メーカー争う姿勢示す　高松地裁で初弁論【香川】 [Nationwide “Construction Asbestos Lawsuit” shows fighting stance of building material manufacturers. First argument at Takamatsu District Court [Kagawa]].

Asbestos Alert in Phnom Penh

Sep 12, 2022

On September 9, 2022, Deputy Director-General Dim Theng of Cambodia’s Ministry of Commerce's Consumer Protection, Competition and Fraud Department (CCF) met with Representatives of the European Chamber of Commerce (EuroCham) in Phnom Penh to discuss the health risks associated with exposures to asbestos, especially amongst construction workers. According to a news report about this meeting: “Cambodia is yet to implement a law banning the import of products containing asbestos, although the CCF expected the government to pass a law doing so in the near future. The government is currently drafting a roadmap to reduce the impact and risks of asbestos-related diseases in Cambodia.” See: EuroCham, CCF raise awareness of asbestos risks.

Asbestos & Natural Disasters

Sep 12, 2022

A symposium held in Nagano City, Japan on September 3, 2022, considered the state-of-the-art response to asbestos liberated during natural disasters such as Typhoon Number 19, an extremely violent and large tropical cyclone that caused widespread destruction in Japan in October 2019. Sixty participants heard presentations from technical and medical experts in the session run by the Municipal Asbestos Countermeasures Center and the NGO Tokyo Occupational Safety and Health Center. See: 災害時におけるアスベスト対策の教訓を学び合う…市行政、専門家交えシンポジウム [Mutual learning of lessons learned from asbestos countermeasures in the event of a disaster…Symposium of city administrators and experts].

Asbestos Education Program

Sep 7, 2022

On September 5, 2022, the Korean Association for Asbestos Safety and Health held an intensive workshop to raise asbestos awareness amongst public officials and civil servants under a program developed in partnership with the Ministry of Justice. Topics covered included the asbestos safety management law, guidelines and regulations pertaining to asbestos inspections of buildings, and case studies for civil servants in local governments. See: 한국석면안전보건연대, 법무부 석면안전지킴이와 함께한 ‘석면안전관리 심화예방교육’ [‘Intensive Asbestos Safety Management Training’ with Korea Asbestos Safety and Health Association and Ministry of Justice asbestos Safety Keepers].

Asbestos Alert!

Sep 5, 2022

The international scandal over Johnson & Johnson’s asbestos-contaminated talc-based baby powder and the company’s announcement that it would withdraw this toxic product from sale in 2023 in all global markets was the starting point for an article about the hazard posed to people in Thailand from the country’s ongoing use of asbestos-containing building, automotive and other products. According to medical expert Dr. Somkiat Siriruttanapruk “We’ve found that about 80% of people with mesothelioma [the signature cancer associated with asbestos exposure] have been exposed to asbestos… You should avoid using products that contain asbestos, so we can bring a halt to asbestos-related diseases. Safer alternatives to asbestos are now available.” See: Hidden danger: how asbestos can harm our health.

Import Ban on Toxic Baby Powder

Sep 3, 2022

On August 20, 2022, Cambodia’s directorate-general of Consumer Protection, Competition and Fraud Repression (CCF) temporarily halted the import and distribution of several brands of talc baby powder after asbestos contamination had been found. Explaining the reason for this action, an official spokesperson said: “Asbestos must not be present in cosmetic products because it can cause severe danger to consumers' health, especially as it can cause cancer.” Amongst the banned products were Johnson & Johnson’s iconic baby powder and Johnson & Johnson's blossoms baby powder. See: DKSH recall baby powder after CCF detects asbestos.

Faster Asbestos Exports to Vietnam

Sep 3, 2022

On August 23, 2022, a new rail link was inaugurated that connected the Chinese city of Nanchang to Vietnam; as a result of this new service, the time for transport of cargo from China to Vietnam will be reduced from 20 days by sea and rail to 8 days by rail. The inaugural train on this service was used to forward 41 carriages of asbestos fiber to Vietnam that had been sent to the city of Xi'an in central China from Kazakhstan. Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Kazakh asbestos exporters have been looking for new routes for cargoes which had formerly been transited via Russian ports. See: Trung Quốc khai trương chuyến tàu hàng từ Tây An sang Việt Nam [China opens freight train [link] from Xi'an to Vietnam].

Asbestos Outreach Project

Sep 3, 2022

Asbestos telephone hotlines were operated on August 27 & 28, 2022 by the non-governmental organizations Asbestos Victims Relief Fund (Kobe) and the Pneumoconiosis/Asbestos Victims Relief Fund (Kanagawa Prefecture) to provide legal, medical and administrative information to people concerned about asbestos exposures and their family members. Members of the public were able to call on a toll-free number from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. See: アスベスト被害、全国一斉の電話相談実施へ　２７、２８日　神戸のＮＰＯ法人 [Asbestos damage, nationwide simultaneous telephone counseling on 27th and 28th. NGO cooporation in Kobe].

Victims’ Victory in Osaka!

Aug 30, 2022

On August 23, 2022, for the first time in Japan a settlement was agreed between the bereaved family of a construction worker who died from an asbestos-related disease and a manufacturer of asbestos-containing building material. According to the agreement submitted to the Osaka District Court, the plaintiffs will receive compensation of 12.87 million yen (US$ 93,500), The company Nippon Insulation also apologized for the demise of the subcontractor from Nara in western Japan who died from lung cancer in 1999, aged 74. See: First Asbestos Settlement with Manufacturer in Japan [ニュース速報: メーカーとの最初のアスベスト和解が日本で達成されました].

Controversy over J &J Marketing Strategy

Aug 30, 2022

Following the announcement by the US pharmaceutical giant Johnson and Johnson (J&J) on August 11, 2022 that it would cease selling its iconic talc-based baby powder in all global markets in 2023, an Indian journalist asked why Indian babies would still be exposed to a product which had been found to contain asbestos fibers whilst those in the U.S. and Canada were not. J&J, which has a 60%+ market share of all baby powder sales in India, will not take the product off shelves in 2022 but will phase out sales next year, a decision which a J&J spokesperson confirmed. See: Johnson & Johnson won’t take controversial baby powder off shelves in India.

Urgent Action on Toxic Talc

Aug 30, 2022

Cambodia’s Directorate General for Consumer Protection, Competition and Fraud Control last week banned from sale 12 types of imported baby powder from Thailand and Malaysia which had been found to contain asbestos fibers. Amongst the products which were ordered to be withdraw from Cambodian markets were: Johnson & Johnson’s (J&J’s) 380g talc and J&J’s Blossoms talc 380g. On August 11, 2022 J&J announced that it would withdraw its iconic talc-based baby powder from all global markets in 2023, 2 years after sales of this product were ended in North America. See: Des talcs pour bébé retirés de la vente au Cambodge pour cause d'amiante [Baby talcum powder withdrawn from sale in Cambodia due to asbestos].

Sale of Toxic Baby Powder to End

Aug 25, 2022

In a statement made on August 19, 2022 in Quezon City, civil society groups from the Philippines – including the EcoWaste Coalition, Associated Labor Unions-TUCP and Arugaan – welcomed the news that Johnson & Johnson would be ending the sale of its talc-based baby powder in all its markets, including the Philippines, having withdrawn it from sale in North America in 2020. Commenting on this development, Gerard R. Seno, National Executive Vice President of the ALU-TUCP said: “Other baby powder manufacturers should follow suit and replace talc with alternatives that will not pose asbestos-related risk.” See: Groups Welcome Company’s Decision to Stop Selling Talc-Based Baby Powder Worldwide.

Raising Asbestos Awareness

Aug 10, 2022

Rapid industrialization, the retirement of experienced workers and a lack of training in occupational health and safety (OHS) for current staff have resulted in a perfect storm in Laos which ensured that hazardous workplace conditions, including exposures to asbestos, remained a fact of life. A 3-day course was held this summer in Vang Vieng, Vientiane Province by the Laos Federation of Trade Unions (LFTU) and Australia’s Union Aid Abroad – APEHDA to train junior union officials in asbestos eradication and workplace safety. The objectives of the sessions included building OHS capacity of LFTU members who, in turn, would be able to raise grassroots awareness of the asbestos hazard. See: Junior union officials trained on asbestos safety.

Cancer Hotspots from Toxic Rainwater

Aug 10, 2022

An elevated incidence of cancer has been reported in villages near Bangladesh coast, with experts explaining that the rise in cases was the result of drinking rainwater collected on asbestos-cement roofs. Saiful Islam from the locality of Shyamnagar in the North Indian State of West Bengal told a journalist that most of the local homes were covered with asbestos roofing: “People know its adverse impact on the human body but they ignore the consequences,” he said. Muhammad Nazmul Hasan, from the village of Chandmukhi, said his family stopped using rainwater collected on the asbestos roof after his father Abdul Sattar died from cancer in February 2022. See: Growing asbestos use causing deadly diseases in coastal Bangladesh.

Asbestos Hazard at Fukushima

Aug 10, 2022

According to an August 4, 2022 news report, large amounts of asbestos material used in the construction of Units 1 to 6 of the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant remain in place even though the plant is being decommissioned as a consequence of the 2011 nuclear accident. Because of the radioactive contamination of the reactor building, the removal of the asbestos is even more complicated than usual: “There are about 1,700 cubic meters of asbestos insulation wrapped around pipes, but only 90 cubic meters (about 5%) have been removed.” See: 福島第1原発に残り続けるもう一つの「危険物」とは [What is another “dangerous material” that continues to remain at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant?].

Working to Eradicate the Asbestos Hazard

Aug 8, 2022

Plans have been announced by representatives of the Kyushu-Okinawa region and Yamaguchi Prefecture to work with a specialist company that conducts surveys and provides advice on how to prevent asbestos exposures during work on damaged buildings in the aftermath of disasters. According to Governor Kabashima: “Kumamoto Prefecture has experienced major disasters such as earthquakes and heavy rains, and has recognized the importance of initial responses to prevent scattering of asbestos.” See: 九州沖縄各県と山口県アスベストの調査行う２団体と協定 [Kyushu Okinawa Prefecture and Yamaguchi Prefecture Agreements with two organizations that conduct asbestos surveys].

Asbestos Marketing Drive in Thailand

Aug 2, 2022

According to the article cited below, a spokesperson for the largest asbestos conglomerate in Thailand believed that local building material producers were looking to increase asbestos imports from Russia from 40,000 tons per year to 200,000 tons per year. Three thousand Thai workers are currently employed by asbestos companies; this figure could increase to 5,000, the company spokesperson predicted. Thailand could, he said “become a kind of regional hub for the production of asbestos products in Southeast Asia. ‘Currently, we are exporting finished asbestos products to neighboring countries’”. See: Производители в Таиланде заинтересованы в наращивании объемов поставок асбеста из России [Producers in Thailand are interested in increasing the volume of asbestos supplies from Russia].

New Asbestos Link to Asia

Jul 29, 2022

On July 24, 2022, for the first time, a new rail-sea link was used for the export of asbestos mined in China. This link will, it was claimed, streamline the movement of goods, reduce costs and shipping times. The initial shipment of Chinese asbestos was composed of four containers of 80 tonnes. The goods will go by train to Qinzhou Port, Beibu Gulf, Guangxi; from there, the cargo will go to Indonesia. In 2019 and 2020, Indonesia was, respectively, the 4th and 5th biggest asbestos-consuming nation in Asia. See: 肅敦煌首次通過西部陸海新通道鐵海聯運列車出口石棉 [Dunhuang, Gansu exports asbestos for the first time through the rail-sea combined transport using the new western land-sea passage].

Living and Dying from Asbestos Diseases

Jul 21, 2022

A book published in July had contributions from 26 authors, each of whom had first-hand knowledge of the disastrous consequences of Japan’s use of asbestos. The texts were written from two perspectives, 12 from the experiences of sufferers and 14 from carers; subjects discussed included the tortuous process to obtain a diagnosis and the effects of the disease on marital relationships and family dynamics. The editor was Professor Sumiko Oshima of Hokusei Gakuen University. Between commissioning the book and publication three of the 12 patients had died. See: 中皮腫の告知、受け止め前へ　患者・家族26人の体験記を出版 [Publication of the experiences of 26 patients and their families prior to receiving and accepting mesothelioma diagnoses].

Asbestos in Incheon Schools

Jul 14, 2022

At a morning press conference on July 14, 2022 in Incheon, Korea members of a coalition of campaigners, parents and technicians announced the results of their 2022 survey of Incheon schools. According to the data collected, one third (280) of all the elementary, middle and high schools (968) still contain asbestos material. A spokesperson of the Incheon Federation of Environmental Movements Shim Hyung-jin told the meeting: “In order to make an asbestos-free school [system] by 2027, we need to establish a monitoring system and transparently monitor the demolition process.” See: 인천 유초중고 중 1/3은 석면학교…“대책 마련 돼야" [One-third of Incheon elementary, middle and high schools are asbestos schools… “Measures must be taken”].

Eradication of Toxic Landscaping

Jul 14, 2022

On July 13, 2022, environmental and consumers’ groups welcomed news of the removal of two huge landscaping boulders from the grounds of Incheon Grand Park. The work was undertaken by city authorities after a successful campaign raised public awareness that the stones contained deadly asbestos fibers. The work had been carried out on July 12. According to a press spokesperson for Incheon Grand Park: “The removed asbestos landscape stone was safely disposed of by a professional asbestos treatment company.” See: 인천 환경단체 "인천대공원 석면 조경석 철거 환영" [Incheon environmental group “Welcome to the removal of asbestos landscaping stone at Incheon Grand Park”].

Transitioning to Asbestos-Free Material

Jul 8, 2022

The article cited below about the use of green technology for construction of housing in Vietnam highlighted the long-term hazard posed by asbestos-containing building products which not only had “a direct effect on construction workers but also … a negative impact on the health of people living in the house after completion.” When inhaled, chrysotile (white) asbestos fibers “can cause serious diseases such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, asbestosis and lead to death.” Safer products are available such as PVA roofing sheets, corrugated iron sheets, plastic corrugated sheets and unbaked tiles which do not endanger health or the environment. See: Giải pháp sử dụng vật liệu an toàn cho sức khỏe khi xây nhà [Solutions to use safe materials for health when building houses].

Grassroots Initiative in Matsumoto

Jul 8, 2022

At a press conference in Matsumoto City, Japan on July 7, 2022, representatives of the Nagano Prefecture Asbestos Countermeasure Center – a coalition of trade unions and non-governmental organizations – highlighted the hazard posed to health by the presence of asbestos remaining within the national infrastructure. An outreach initiative scheduled to take place on July 17 will facilitate free telephone consultations between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. for people concerned about toxic exposures. Individuals seeking face-to-face appointments with the legal and medical experts at Matsumoto City Labor Hall will need to pre-book. See: 今月１７日にアスベスト相談会を開催主催団体が利用呼びかけ [Asbestos counselling session will be held on the 17th of this month].

Civil Society Campaign for UN Action

Jul 1, 2022

The experiences of Indonesian ban asbestos campaigners who took part in the June 2022 meeting of the Rotterdam Convention (RC) in Geneva strengthened their resolve to continue efforts to protect vulnerable populations from the deadly dangers of asbestos exposures. In the article cited below, asbestosis sufferer Mr Sriyono and activist Ajat Sudrajat reported that asbestos stakeholders had, once again, blocked United Nations progress on regulating the global trade in asbestos, an acknowledged carcinogen. At a plenary session, Mr Sriyono urged RC delegates to take action to prevent more people, like himself and his co-workers at an asbestos textile factory, from contracting asbestos-related diseases. See: “We will not stop raising our voices” – Indonesian delegates defiant at Rotterdam asbestos conference.

Asbestos Compensation Scheme: Update

Jun 15, 2022

On June 13, 2022, the upper house of the National Diet of Japan unanimously approved an amendment to the Asbestos Health Damage Relief Law which reinstated the rights of families who had suffered asbestos bereavements to claim special survivor benefits, by extending a deadline of March 27, 2022 for a further ten years. The deadline had been extended twice before and there was a national outcry when the Government had allowed the scheme to lapse. See: 改正アスベスト健康被害救済法参院本会議で可決・成立 [Amendment of Asbestos Health Damage Relief Law Passed and enacted at the Upper House plenary session].

Pro-Asbestos Bias Denounced

Jun 15, 2022

Within the Indian Government there is a disconnect on the human and environmental health risks posed by exposures to asbestos. Asbestos mining has been banned throughout the country, likewise the trade in asbestos waste, and work is ongoing to remove asbestos from 7,000 railway stations. Nevertheless, the Ministry of Chemicals continues to rely on an out-dated study co-sponsored by the asbestos industry which downplayed the toxic effects of asbestos exposures on workers to block the United Nations’ Rotterdam Convention from taking action to protect global populations from toxic exposures. See: Chrysotile asbestos: Chemicals Ministry hostage to NIOH's old, ‘discredited’ study.

Asbestos Outreach Care

Jun 10, 2022

On June 9, 2022, a new asbestos outreach program was announced by officials from the Korean city of Sacheon, Gyeongnam. Anyone who believed that he/she was exposed to asbestos can obtain a free health checkup for asbestos injuries without booking by attending clinics between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the Hyangchon-dong Administrative Welfare Center (June 25) and the Sacheon-eup Administrative Welfare Center (June 26). During these sessions, individuals will consult a doctor, have an X-ray taken and fill out an asbestos exposure history questionnaire. See: 사천시, 찾아가는 석면피해 무료 건강검진 [Free health checkup [facility] for asbestos damage visiting Sacheon City].

Denounced for Blocking UN Progress

Jun 10, 202

The commentary cited below reviewed the inglorious role India has played in preventing the United Nations from taking action on the global asbestos scourge by listing chrysotile (white) asbestos as a hazardous substance on Annex III of the Rotterdam Convention. The global trade in materials on that list is subject to regulations to provide prior-informed-consent to importing countries so that dangerous products are not brought into nations unable to protect populations from toxic exposures. India has, with asbestos stakeholders from Russia and Kazakhstan, been instrumental in frustrating the will of the majority of parties to the RC who support listing of chrysotile asbestos. See: India May Disagree – but UN Should List Chrysotile Asbestos as ‘Hazardous’.

Tidal Wave of Asbestos Claims

Jun 8, 2022

On June 7, 2022, nearly 200 new claims were lodged against 20+ companies that had manufactured asbestos building materials by workers and bereaved relatives at district courts in Sapporo, Sendai, Saitama, Tokyo, Yokohama, Kyoto, Osaka, Okayama, Takamatsu, and Fukuoka. Additional legal actions are planned in Tokyo, Nagoya and Fukuoka. The plaintiffs are angry that, while the Government accepted liability for damage done by its failures to protect workers from toxic exposures, negligent manufacturers refuse to pay compensation or contribute funds to a National Asbestos Compensation Scheme. See: 建設アスベスト、新たに190人がメーカー提訴　全国10地裁に [190 construction asbestos cases filed with manufacturers in 10 district courts nationwide].

Eradicating the Asbestos Hazard

Jun 8, 2022

A donation of US$40,000 from the NGO Habitat For Humanity International to the Phu Vang District People's Committee, Vietnam will be used to support the removal of asbestos roofing from 60 homes in the Thua Thien Hue province. The asbestos eradication program is part of ongoing efforts to improve living conditions and public health, and reduce the presence of asbestos in the Phu Vang district. See: HFHI tài trợ hơn 900 triệu đồng giúp cải thiện điều kiện sống, sức khỏe cho người dân Huế [HFHI sponsors more than 900 million VND to help improve living conditions and health for Hue people].

Victory for Construction Workers

Jun 8, 2022

On June 3, 2022, a settlement was approved in the Osaka District Court for construction workers in an action against the Japanese Government. The claimants sought damages for occupational asbestos exposures against the Government and the manufacturers of asbestos building materials. One of the successful claims was over the death of a truck driver who had delivered asbestos building materials to a construction site; this is the first time that a claim against the Government by a worker not engaged in construction had succeeded. No settlement was reached with the manufacturers; proceedings continue. See: 建設アスベスト訴訟、トラック運転手の遺族と和解　大阪地裁 [Construction asbestos action settled with truck driver’s bereaved family at Osaka District Court].

Spreading Awareness and Good Practice

Jun 3, 2022

An asbestos program for officials in the South Korean City of Busan whose duties might bring them into contact with asbestos has been announced. The training program for the civil servants will be compiled and delivered by staff from the Korean Association for Asbestos Safety and Health. Amongst the topics which will be covered are: asbestos removal guidelines, techniques for preventing toxic exposures of removal operatives, and asbestos safety management inspection protocols. See: 한국석면안전보건연대, 2022 첫 '찾아가는 석면안전관리 심화교육' 부산시 공무원 대상 개시 [Korea Association for Asbestos Safety and Health, 2022 first ‘visiting asbestos safety management in-depth education’ for public officials in Busan].

Holding Guilty Companies to Account!

Jun 1, 2022

On May 30, 2022, members of the National Liaison Committee for Construction Asbestos Litigation met with Japanese Communist Party Diet members to express concern over the continued refusal by building material manufacturers to contribute to the National Asbestos Compensation Fund and to apologize to workers injured by exposure to their toxic products. Members of the House of Representatives who attended the meeting included: Tomo Iwabuchi, Akira Kasai, and Toru Miyamoto. Speaking on their behalf, Mr. Kasai said that: “The fundamental issues of corporate social responsibility and the responsibility of the government are being questioned, and we need political action.” See: 建設アスベスト補償基金 [Construction asbestos compensation fund].

Asbestos in Schools

May 27, 2022

At a Seoul press conference on May 25, 2022, researchers from the Citizen's Center for Environment and Health and the National School Asbestos Parents Network, informed journalists that “4-5 out of 10 elementary, middle and high schools nationwide are still ‘asbestos schools’.” Campaigners called on the government to prioritize the removal of asbestos from schools as a matter of urgency. The news was widely reported by the media. At one-time, the use of asbestos material in schools had been mandatory; asbestos was banned in Korea in 2009. See: 환경단체 "전국 초중고교 절반은 여전히 '석면 학교'" [Environmental group “About half of elementary, middle and high schools nationwide are still ‘asbestos schools’”].

Tokyo Rally Calls for Asbestos Justice

May 25, 2022

To mark the first anniversary of the historic Supreme Court ruling for construction workers injured by asbestos exposures, on May 20, 2022 a public rally was held in Tokyo by construction workers and groups representing them. Speakers at the event called on the Japanese Government to apologize for failing to protect workers from hazardous occupational exposures and ensure that manufacturers recompense individuals injured by using their asbestos products. At the meeting, at Hibiya Open Air Concert Hall, attended by 1500+ people, it was announced that on June 7, a new asbestos class action would be launched in seven district courts against building materials manufacturers. See: メーカーの謝罪・補償基金求め [Manufacturer's apology / compensation fund request].

Demolition of “Outdated” Asbestos Houses

May 25, 2022

Officials in Xiqiao Town, a municipality in the Nanhai District, Foshan, Guangdong, China announced last week that, pursuant to new ordinances, they were progressing efforts to improve the management of urban and rural areas by demolishing properties including houses roofed with asbestos material. The cleared sites will be redeveloped by public-private partnerships and will include the construction of a modern industrial park and other facilities to encourage economic growth in the district. See: 南海逐步消除石棉瓦房铁皮锈屋扎实完成“两违”治理工作任务 [South China Sea gradually [region] eliminates asbestos, tile houses, iron rust houses, and solidly completes the task of “two violations” governance].

Asbestos Alert in China

May 23, 2022

Scientific findings published online on May 19, 2022 by researchers from China and Australia highlighted the dreadful consequences of toxic exposures in these countries, noting that asbestos caused the largest number of work-related lung cancer deaths in both. The co-authors of the paper cited below warned that: “the continued use of certain types of asbestos [in China] and the lack of health education on occupational carcinogen may further increase LCM [lung cancer mortality] burden attributable to occupational exposure. See: Age-period-cohort analysis of lung cancer mortality in China and Australia from 1990 to 2019.

Asbestos in Schools

May 18, 2022

Officials in the Department of Education in South Korea’s Gyeongbuk Province announced on May 17, 2022 that work to remove asbestos from schools in the district will be completed in 2025; the original deadline had been 2027, but due to the danger to students and staff posed by the presence of asbestos material in the schools, remediation work had been made a priority. In 2022, decontamination work is being carried out in 112 schools; to minimize toxic exposures to the children, the work will be undertaken during the summer and winter vacations. See: 경북교육청, 학교 석면 제거 2년 앞당겨 완료 예정 [Gyeongbuk Office of Education to complete school asbestos removal two years earlier].

Support for At-Risk Populations

May 18, 2022

Changes were announced this week in the management of an asbestos outreach project in South Korea’s Chungnam Province. The formerly privately-run project – called the asbestos victims’ health care initiative – has been put into the hands of a public institution: the Hongseong Medical Center. Services available to participants and their families include: home visits, health check-ups, psychological counselling and symptom management training. Asbestos, a known carcinogen, was widely used in Korea in building products, soundproofing material, textiles, automotive parts and shipbuilding. See: 충남 석면피해자, 홍성의료원서 집중 관리 [Intensive management of asbestos victims in Chungcheongnam-do, Hongseong Medical Center].

Moving Towards an Asbestos Ban in Asia!

May 13, 2022

The Good Practice Guidance for the Management and Control of Asbestos: Protecting Workplaces and Communities from Asbestos Exposure Risks released by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) is widely regarded as confirmation of the Bank’s commitment to honoring its promise to outlaw the use of asbestos in all projects funded by the ABD. During the launch of the document last month (April 2022), the ADB Director of Safeguards Bruce Dunn indicated that the ban would be announced in March 2023. Until then, the ADB has warned staff to avoid the use of asbestos-containing materials in existing and new procurement. See: Asia Development Bank one step closer to asbestos ban.

Holding Asbestos Defendants to Account

May 11, 2022

At a May 9 Tokyo press conference, it was announced that a group of asbestos-injured construction workers are launching a class action lawsuit in June 2022 against manufacturers of asbestos-containing building products. In May 2021, the Supreme Court had ordered that the Japanese Government pay compensation for having failed to act, as a result of which construction workers were hazardously exposed to asbestos; the Government has set up a scheme to pay compensation. Although, courts have ruled that manufacturers were also negligent, these defendants have yet to pay compensation to the injured. See: 建設アスベスト被害建材メーカーに賠償求め各地で一斉提訴へ [Construction workers seek compensation from building material manufacturers].

Expansion of Asbestos Production

May 9, 2022

On May 5, 2022, a new assembly line for asbestos-cement building products became operational at a factory owned by Visaka Industries – one of India’s largest asbestos-cement conglomerates – in Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh, India. The company is one of the major players in the country’s asbestos-cement industrial sector. India is the world’s largest importer of asbestos fiber, most of which is used for the manufacture of building products such as roofing sheets and tiles and sewage and water pipes. See: Visaka Industries Ltd commissions new line at Asbestos Cement division.

Government U-Turn on Deadline

May 9, 2022

Public outrage over the expiration on March 27, 2022 of a deadline for asbestos victims to submit claims for benefits under a special government scheme has been acknowledged by the Liberal Democratic Party and the Komeito Party which have proposed an amendment to the Asbestos Health Damage Relief Act to extend the deadline for claiming benefits by 10 years. Their amendment will be presented to the Japanese Diet during the current session. See: “石綿特別遺族給付金期限延長を” 自・公が野党に呼びかけ [“Extending the deadline for asbestos special survivor benefits” The public calls on the opposition].

Asbestos Industry Offensive

Apr 29, 2022

In a Russian language article uploaded on April 26, 2022, activities held by Kazakhstan’s only asbestos-producing company, Kostanay Minerals, to mark International Chrysotile (Asbestos) day on April 16, 2022 were reported. On that day a public rally was held to mobilize the support of local people for the asbestos industry, with company officials denouncing ban asbestos campaigners as “environmental extremists.” A representative of the Chrysotile trade union, which is supported by the company, parroted industry propaganda that “chrysotile is safe used under controlled conditions.” See: В Казахстане стартовала эстафета эко-субботников в защиту хризотила [Relay race of eco-subbotniks in defense of chrysotile has started in Kazakhstan].

Medical Surveillance of At-Risk Populations

Apr 29, 2022

Medical screening sessions carried out by staff at Soonchunhyang University Cheonan Hospital, under the auspices of the Korean Ministry of Environment in accordance with the Asbestos Damages Relief Act, will take place between April 25 and November 2022, to assess the health impact on residents in asbestos hotspots in North Jeolla Province, South and North Chungcheong Provinces, North Gyeongsang Province, Ulsan City etc. The health impact survey is free of charge for patients. See: 순천향대 천안병원 석면피해 우려지역 주민 건강영향조사 [Soonchunhyang University Cheonan Hospital Health Impact Survey for Residents in Areas of Concern for Asbestos Damage].

Calls for More Help for Asbestos Victims

Apr 25, 2022

On April 20, 2022, the Ministry of Environment released data showing that asbestos-related diseases contracted by 166 people (119 with asbestos damage, 69 with asbestos-related lung disease and 34 people with mesothelioma) in Incheon, South Korea had been officially recognized between 2011 and 2021. Campaigners are calling for more financial provision and increased medical capacity for supporting asbestos victims. Rep. Hong Moon-Pyo has submitted two amendments to the Asbestos Damage Relief Act which would boost health management and preventative measures for local residents. See: 인천서 석면 노출 피해 인원 연 15명..피해 예방 시급 [15 asbestos exposure victims per year in Incheon. Immediate damage prevention [needed]].

Extension of Asbestos Relief Scheme

Apr 22, 2022

On April 21, 2022, at a joint meeting of Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare and the Liberal Democratic Party, it was announced that a 10-year extension had been agreed to a government “special survivors benefits” relief scheme for bereaved relatives of workers who had died from the asbestos cancer mesothelioma. Under the previous scheme, March 27, 2022 had been the deadline for the submission of claims. As a result of nationwide protests by asbestos victims’ groups and supporting organizations, the Government agreed to extend the scheme. See: アスベスト被害の救済延長へ　自公部会が改正法案了承 [LDP-NKP approves amendment bill to extend relief for asbestos damages].

New Rail Link: Faster Asbestos Shipments

Apr 22, 2022

On April 21, 2022, the inaugural trip of a new railway service linking China to Laos and Southeast Asia was featured in news released by the Chinese Government. According to information provided, cargo dispatched from Dunhuang, Gansu Province in 20 containers included 530 tonnes of Chinese asbestos. The exported goods were destined for Vientiane, Laos from where they will be transported by road to Bangkok, Thailand. The new railway link will shorten the delivery time to Bangkok by 12 days. See: 甘肃开通首列中老铁路国际货运列车 [Gansu opens first China-Laos railway international freight train].

Second Claim Succeeds for Asbestos Injury

Apr 21, 2022

On April 20, 2022, the widow of a factory worker who had contracted asbestos-related lung cancer and obtained 8.4 million yen (US$65,800) compensation from the Japanese Government, succeeded in another claim against the Government. In a settlement, the Government paid her 3.1 million yen (US$24,270) for the untimely death caused by her husband’s exposure to asbestos at the Hashima City factory where he had worked for the Nichias company. See: アスベスト訴訟で国と和解　死亡で国と再び和解が成立 [Settlement with the country in asbestos proceedings. Another settlement reached due to death [of victim]].

Toxic Environment in West Singhbhum

Apr 21, 2022

Inhabitants of a tribal village in the Indian State of Jharkhand continue to suffer from diseases caused by exposure to asbestos fibers and waste material scattered throughout the region as a consequence of decades of asbestos mining. Huge mountains of chrysotile (white) asbestos tailings dominate the landscape of local villages and lung complaints and breathing difficulties are very common. Due to a lack of medical capacity, patients are forced to travel far afield – to Ranchi, Hyderabad, Delhi – to access medical treatment. See: Asbestos mining health hazards continues to plague this tribal village in Jharkhand.

Jharkhand’s Asbestos Legacy

Apr 19. 2022

Decades of asbestos mining in the Roro hills of the Indian State of Jharkhand have left their mark on the landscape as well as the people. According to the article cited below, many elderly people in a dozen local villages believe that their lung conditions and breathing difficulties are a direct result of their environmental exposures to asbestos. Although asbestos mining in Jharkhand ended in 1983, no efforts have been made to remediate the mines or areas surrounding them. In 2019, the National Green Tribunal ordered Jharkhand officials to remove the toxic waste; up to now, no decontamination work has been undertaken. See: The ghost of asbestos mining continues to haunt this tribal village in Jharkhand.

Initiative to Support Asbestos Victims

Apr 19, 202

On April 24, 2022 a meeting is being held in Maebashi, a city in the Kanto region of central Japan, by the Mesothelioma and Asbestos Disease Patients and Family Association (Kita-Kantou Branch) to identify and inform people at high-risk of contracting asbestos-related diseases (ARDs). Speakers will include people who have been diagnosed with ARDs and bereaved family members who will share their experiences and explain issues, including how to access medical and financial support for the injured. See: 石綿被害を訴えて　24日に前橋で相談会　患者や遺族の講演も [Consultation meeting at Maebashi on the 24th to consider asbestos damage. Lectures by patients and bereaved families].

Operation of Compensation Scheme

Apr 13, 2022

The article cited below provided information on the operations of a new government entity set up by the Japanese Government to provide compensation to construction workers injured as a result of occupational exposures to asbestos. The establishment of the administrative scheme became necessary after a landmark decision was handed down by the Supreme Court in 2021 that found that the Government had been negligent in failing to take timely action in recognizing the human health hazard posed by exposures to asbestos. See: アスベストによる健康被害　給付金制度創設、救済に光 [Health damage caused by asbestos, establishing a benefit system].

Toxic Landscaping in Korean Park

Apr 11, 2022

At a press conference on April 7, 2022, Korean environmental groups – the Incheon-Gyeonggi Environmental Movement Federation, Environmental Health Citizens' Center, and Korea Asbestos Expulsion Network – lambasted the authorities for failing to act on the hazard posed by the presence of asbestos-contaminated ornamental stones landscaping Incheon Park, which has 4 million visitors every year. A spokesperson told journalists that the temporary measures taken to minimize the health hazard were unacceptable and that the contamination must be eradicated as a matter of priority. See: 시민건강 위협 인천대공원 석면조경석 철거해야 [People’s health threatened, Incheon Grand Park asbestos landscaping stone must be removed].

Victims’ Ruling by Kobe Court

Apr 4, 2022

On March 31, 2022, Judge Satoshi Saito of the Kobe District Court awarded compensation of 20.8 million yen (US$164,000) each to three men who had been employed at the Kobe docks unloading and handling asbestos cargo from the mid-1950s and, as a result, contracted asbestos-related lung cancer. The Judge ruled that according to Japanese law, the employers were required to have protected the workers from exposures to dangerous substances; they failed to do so. See: 神戸港貨物確認元従業員アスベストで肺がん法人に賠償命令 [Compensation awarded to former employees from Kobe Port who Contracted Lung Cancer after Unloading Asbestos Cargo].

Medical Outreach Initiative in Busan

Mar 28, 2022

On March 25, 2022, Busan City announced that it would be providing free medical check-ups for 1,000 people who had lived near asbestos mines, shipyards or asbestos-processing factories because of the environmental hazard posed by toxic fibers liberated from such locations. Busan was the first Korean city to pioneer such an outreach project, with the first screenings taking place in 2008. The examinations this year will, once again, be conducted by personnel from the Asbestos Environmental Health Center at Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital; to date, the Center has screened 21,092 people, of whom 624 had an asbestos-related disease. See: 부산시, 석면 피해 지역주민에 '찾아가는 건강검진' 실시 [‘Visiting health check-ups’ for residents affected by asbestos in Busan].

Local Elevation of Airborne Asbestos Levels

Mar 28, 2022

On March 23, 2022 information was released by Japan’s Ministry of Environment which confirmed that some of the data from routine testing for airborne asbestos levels at 40 locations throughout the country was disturbing. While asbestos concentration in the general environment has been decreasing in recent years, elevated levels continue to be found in areas where asbestos processing or mining had taken place. Investigations are ongoing and measures to protect at-risk citizens are being considered. See: 北海道ノザワ工場から「ほぼ毎年」アスベスト飛散か　最大で住宅地の150倍超　環境省・検討会で指摘 [Ministry of the Environment Study shows, levels of [airborne] asbestos from Hokkaido's Nozawa plant are up to 150 times [average] residential area values "almost every year"].

Asbestos Ruling in Fukuoka!

Mar 25, 2022

On March 24, 2022, the Fukuoka High Court dismissed an appeal by Kitakyushu City and a building maintenance company which had been found guilty by a lower court of having exposed a worker to asbestos at the Kitakyushu City Gymnasium in 1990; as a result of that exposure, he died aged 78. Judge Yoshiaki Moritomi upheld the verdict of the Fukuoka District Court ordering the defendants to pay the family 25.8 million yen (US$211,000). According to the claimant’s lawyer, the 2020 decision by the District Court was the first in Japan to recognize the responsibility of local governments for public facilities which contained asbestos. See: アスベスト訴訟控訴審も北九州市に賠償命令　福岡高裁 [Asbestos proceedings appeal also ordered compensation to Kitakyushu City Fukuoka High Court].

New Asbestos Benefits Law Payments

Mar 23, 2022

On March 18, 2022, Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare announced that it had paid compensation to the first tranche of applicants pursuant to the new Construction Asbestos Benefits Law. On March 2, 86 claims were approved from construction workers who had sprayed asbestos or worked at certain indoor workshops during specific time periods. The successful applicants included employees, self-employed workers and owners of small and medium-sized businesses, who had contracted asbestos-related illnesses. While compensation amounts vary, the maximum payout is 13 million yen (~US$107,500). See: 「建設アスベスト給付金法」に基づく給付金を初めて支給 [First payment of benefits based on the Construction Asbestos Benefits Law].

Help for Asbestos Victims

Mar 21, 2022

An asbestos victims’ group – the Mesothelioma and Asbestos Diseases Patients and Family Association – organized an emergency asbestos hotline on March 18 to 20, to answer questions from potential claimants with asbestos injuries so that they might submit applications for benefits from a Japanese Government scheme due to close on March 27, 2022. The Association estimated that there were at least 20,000 eligible claims which have not yet been submitted. See: 石綿被害の電話相談、全国一斉で18～20日実施　27日請求期限 [Telephone consultation for asbestos damage, carried out nationwide from March 18 to 20; March 27 deadline for submission of claims].

Korea’s Deadly Asbestos Mining Legacy

Mar 18, 2022

The effects of asbestos mining and processing in South Korea’s Chungnam Province continue to impact on local people. The extended article cited below contains interviews with asbestos victims whose exposures to fibers from the Gwangcheon Mine – once Asia's largest asbestos mine – and other mines led them to contract asbestos-related diseases such as asbestosis. Annual output from the Gwangcheon Mine, which operated from 1938 to 1986, was 190,000 tonnes. Because of its asbestos mines, the region of Chungnam is home to the largest number of Korea’s asbestos victims; between January 2011 and July 2021, 37% of Koreans recognized as asbestos victims came from Chungnam. See: Chungnam Province, the largest asbestos-damaged area in Korea...“Never-ending pain.”.

Preventing Asbestos Exposures

Mar 16, 2022

In order to publicize the introduction of stricter regulations under the revision of the Air Pollution Control Law (April 2021), officials from Kosai City are mounting an outreach program to educate duty-holders about new measures required to prevent the dissemination of asbestos fibers during refurbishment and demolition work. Contractors are now obliged to submit results of preliminary surveys to the prefecture prior to the commencement of work. See: 建物解体時の石綿飛散防止　法改正で県が啓発活動 [Prefecture government raises awareness by amending the Asbestos Scattering Prevention Law when dismantling buildings].

Progress on Asbestos Issues in Asia

Mar 11, 2022

In an annual review, the Australian campaigning group Union Aid Abroad – APHEDA detailed measures to raise the profile of the asbestos hazard throughout Asia during 2021. APHEDA partnered with NGOs, government ministries and civil society groups on initiatives in Laos, Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam and Pacific Island countries. “We are,” the review concluded “very encouraged by the progress made in 2021 under difficult circumstances. We can see that the asbestos industry is in decline, but thousands of tonnes of asbestos-containing materials still pour into these countries. A total ban is needed...” See: A year in review: Asbestos – Not Here, Not Anywhere campaign.

Building Material Manufacturers Sued

Mar 7, 2022

Last week, 21 construction workers from Osaka with asbestos-related diseases or surviving families sued 12 manufacturers of toxic building materials; in the past, such claimants issued joint proceedings against manufacturers and the Government. With the Japanese Government having been forced by a Supreme Cout ruling (2021) to acknowledge responsibility for the asbestos injuries sustained by construction workers, litigants are now targeting the manufacturers. The plaintiffs are seeking a sum of 357 million yen (US$3.1m). See: 全国初“建材メーカーのみの責任を問う”裁判　アスベスト被害受けた元作業員らが提訴 [For the first time in Japan former workers with asbestos diseases file a lawsuit to “hold building material manufacturers to account”].

Urgent Calls to Extend Claim Deadline

Mar 7, 2022

Campaigners are calling for urgent action by the Japanese Government to reconsider plans to stick to a March 28, 2022 deadline for the submission of claims by people suffering from asbestos-related diseases as a result of non-occupational exposures such as residents who lived near the asbestos-processing Kanzaki factory. Others who benefited from the scheme were people unable to claim workers’ accident compensation due to the expiration of the statute of limitations. Under a law enacted in 2006, these claimants or surviving family members were eligible for government benefits under the scheme set up by the Asbestos Health Damage Relief Act. See: 「静かな時限爆弾」アスベスト　古い被害、再び閉ざされる救済 [“Silent time bomb” asbestos damage relief [scheme] to shut].

Mesothelioma Victims: Update

Mar 4, 2022

The Japanese NGO Mesothelioma Support Caravan is calling on the Government to extend the March 27, 2022 deadline for the submission of asbestos claims. A subcommittee tasked with considering asbestos compensation awards has not met for five years. In 2021, the Ministry of Environment refused to clarify when the next meeting would take place. Anecdotal evidence collected by the NGO suggests that more patients are being diagnosed with mesothelioma in their 40s and 50s; 40% of victims experience financial hardship. See: 「“中皮腫”が治る時代に」闘病生活を送るアスベスト被害者の訴え [Complaints of asbestos victims struggling to survive [economically] because of their illness in an era when mesothelioma “is treatable”].

Quantifying India’s Asbestos Problem

Feb 22, 2022

According to Dr. Gopal Krishna, “no building or vehicle in India is free of carcinogenic asbestos mineral fibers.” Despite the fact that 70 countries have banned the use of asbestos around the world, India continues to import chrysotile (white) asbestos fiber from Russia, Brazil, and Kazakhstan to be used in the manufacture of household goods, automotive parts and building products. Data sourced from the Indian Minerals Year Book which was published in November 2021 indicated that 361,164 tonnes of asbestos fiber was imported in 2020 as well as 25,009 tonnes of asbestos-cement products. See: No building or vehicle in India 'is free of' carcinogenic asbestos mineral fibres.

Asbestos Victims’ Struggle

Feb 16, 2022

A survey of conditions endured by sufferers of asbestos-related diseases in Japan, carried out in 2019 and 2020 by the NGO Mesothelioma Support Caravan, revealed that many respondents were in financial distress: in 2019, 47% of people reported that their income had decreased by 2 million yen (US$17,300+) or more after their diagnosis even though they were in receipt of government benefits. Most of those affected are in their 50s and are paying for their children’s education. According to NGO Chairman Takao Umeda: “Patients and their families are in trouble. I want the Government to review the system as soon as possible so that it does not continue.” See: アスベストでの中皮腫患者 40％余が困窮 “国の支援策充実を” [More than 40% of patients with mesothelioma are in need].

Supreme Court Asbestos Victory!

Feb 15, 2022

A ruling by Japan’s Supreme Court on February 9, 2022 dismissed appeals of a verdict which had awarded 53 plaintiffs damages for asbestos-related injuries. The claimants, who were construction workers or surviving family members, had been awarded compensation of 125 million yen (US$1.1m) by the Fukuoka High Court against four companies which had manufactured asbestos-containing building products, with the Court ruling that the manufacturers had had a responsibility to warn the workers of the asbestos hazard but had failed to do so. See: メーカー４社の責任確定　建設石綿九州訴訟―最高裁 [Responsibility of 4 manufacturers confirmed by Supreme Court; asbestos proceedings for Kyushu plaintiffs].

Schools’ Asbestos Removal Program

Feb 15. 2022

On February 9, 2022, a spokesperson for Gyeonggi Province announced plans by the Provincial Office of Education to remove 500,000 square meters of asbestos from 151 schools and 7,570 classrooms by the end of this year (2022). If work goes according to plan, all schools in the Province will be asbestos-free by 2027. By 2021, half of all schools had been remediated. Asbestos was used as a ceiling material for classrooms in the 1970s and 1990s due to its insulating, thermal insulation, and noise blocking functions. See: 경기도, 올해 151개교 석면 제거…2027년까지 모든 학교 완료 [Gyeonggi-do to remove asbestos from 151 schools this year... All schools completed by 2027].

Condolences over Death of Korean Activist

Feb 7, 2022

Members of the Japan Association of Asbestos Victims and Their Families, Ban Asbestos Japan and other groups in Japan last week published their condolences over the sad news about Korean ban asbestos activist Jeong Ji-yeol who died from asbestos cancer on January 28. Jeong had played a pivotal role not only in the campaign for the rights of Korean asbestos victims but also in campaigns to raise awareness of the asbestos hazard and its impact on workers and members of the public during trips to Japan, Hong Kong, Cambodia, Indonesia, Thailand, Bangladesh, Vietnam, and Nepal. See: 석면추방 앞장 정지열 대표 타계에 일본인들도 애도 [Japanese people mourn the death of Jeong Ji-yeol, a ban-asbestos leading figure].

Remediation of Asbestos in Buildings

Feb 7, 2022

The South Korean City of Jeongeup is progressing efforts to remove and replace deteriorating asbestos-cement roofing to protect the population from exposures to a known cancer-causing fiber. “Aging roofing made with asbestos,” said a city official “contains a class 1 carcinogen, which can be fatal to health over a long period of exposure.” Since 2012, the City has spent a total of ₩ 4.83bn (US$403m) to remediate asbestos and demolish 227 buildings. A budget of ₩ 1.39bn (US$1.1m) has been allocated for the 2022 asbestos removal program. See: 정읍시, 발암물질 ‘석면 차단’ 안전하고 쾌적한 주거환경 개선 [Jeongeup City improves safe and comfortable living environment by blocking carcinogen ‘asbestos’].

An Asbestos Working Life

Feb 4, 2022

The interview cited below was with Balzhan Bisenkulova who works in the packaging department of Kostanai Minerals JSC, Kazakshtan’s only producer of chrysotile (white) asbestos. Born in Russia, Mrs. Bisenkulova had worked at Orenburg Minerals, a Russian asbestos mining conglomerate, before her marriage. She has worked for Kostanai Minerals for 18 years – sewing bags for 13 years and operating machines which pack chrysotile asbestos fiber into 50 kilo bags for five years. Running two machines at the same time, she can produce 60 bags an hour. See: 50 мешков в час [50 bags per hour].

One Nation’s Asbestos Tragedy

Jan 31, 2022

Failures by successive administrations in India are responsible for the continued use of a toxic material banned in scores of other countries: asbestos. Alhtough asbestos mining was prohibited in India in 2011, asbestos-containing products such as asbestos-cement tiles remain a popular choice for consumers because of their relatively low cost. Vested interests in the asbestos industrial sector have dispensed considerable funds to political candidates and decision makers in order to maintain the status quo despite the dangers to human beings exposed to asbestos material at work or at home. See: New Delhi still imports asbestos, risking 50,000 deaths a year.

Clash of Ministries on Asbestos Policy

Jan 28, 2022

An attempt by Vietnam’s Ministry of Construction to rename the project currently titled “Roadmap for ending the use of chrysotile asbestos for the production of asbestos roofing by 2023” to “Strengthening the management and use of chrysotile [asbestos] in the production of building materials” has been condemned by the Ministry of Health’s Institute of Occupational and Environmental Health in Official Letter No. 16/SKNN&MT V/v on multiple grounds including the overwhelming need to protect the population from toxic exposures to chrysotile asbestos. See: Kiến nghị giữ nguyên tên Đề án “Lộ trình dừng sử dụng amiang trắng để sản xuất tấm lợp amiang” [Proposal to keep the name of the Project “Road to stop using chrysotile for the production of asbestos roofing sheets”].

Improving Occupational Safety Protocols

Jan 28, 2022

A proposal to improve protection for Korea subcontractors dismantling and removing asbestos are under consideration by the National Assembly's Environment and Labor Committee. On January 24, 2022, draft legislation entitled the “Partial Amendment to the Occupational Safety and Health Act,” which aims to restrict those eligible to undertake asbestos remediation work to licensed personnel and companies was submitted by Lim Ja, the representative from Sangju, Mungyeong, Gyeongsangbuk-do. See: 임이자 의원 “석면해체·제거작업 근로자들의 처우 개선” [“Improving the treatment of asbestos dismantling and removal workers”].

Victory for Asbestos Victim

Jan 25, 2022

A lawsuit brought over the death in 2021 of a Japanese worker who had been employed for 30 years at a factory in Kitakyushu City manufacturing asbestos-cement roofing has been settled with the Government of Japan agreeing to accept liability and pay compensation of 11.5 million yen (US$101,000) to the deceased’s family. The claimants alleged that the worker had contracted lung cancer as a result of occupational exposures to asbestos which had resulted from the failure of the Government’s timely action to control the asbestos hazard. See: 北九州アスベスト訴訟　国が１１５０万円支払う和解成立 [Kitakyushu Asbestos Proceedings Settlement in which the country pays 11.5 million yen].

Asbestos Removal Program in Schools

Jan 24, 2022

The Department of Education in the Korean City of Ulsan announced on January 19, 2022 that asbestos remediation would take place in Pyeongsan Elementary School and Byeongyeong Elementary School (Annex) during the winter school vacation. After this work was completed, external experts would supervise air monitoring tests to ensure that the school was safe for use. According to an official, asbestos remediation work at eight other schools will be undertaken during the summer and winter vacations this year. See: 울산 학교 환경개선, 평산초·병영초 석면해체·제거 완료 [Ulsan school environment improvement, asbestos dismantling and removal completed at Pyeongsan Elementary School and Byeongyeong Elementary School].

Asbestos Hotline

Jan 24, 2022

On January 19 and 20, 2022, a free telephone hotline was set up in Osaka, Japan by legal advisors to inform potential applicants about the process for submitting claims to a government compensation scheme for construction workers who contracted various diseases as a result of occupational exposures to asbestos. The benefits’ scheme is operated by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare. See: 建設現場のアスベスト被害電話相談給付金受け付け開始で [Telephone consultation accompanies rollout of compensation [scheme] for those injured by asbestos at construction sites].

Asbestos Alert!

Jan 19, 2022

An article on a Vietnamese news portal highlighted the deadly danger posed by the popularity of asbestos-cement roofing material, exposure to which can cause a variety of cancers and diseases. The majority of the asbestos fiber used in the manufacture of 80 million m² of asbestos-cement roofing products in Vietnam every year comes from Russia. Medical and scientific experts are working in Vietnam to raise awareness of the availability of safer products and encourage consumers, especially lower income customers, to abandon toxic roofing. See: Chất Amiăng trong tấm lợp Fibro xi măng là “kẻ thù” gây hàng loạt ung thư nguy hiểm [Asbestos in Fibro-cement roofing is an “enemy” that causes a series of dangerous cancers].

Commencement of Benefits Program

Jan 19, 2022

A government scheme to provide financial support to asbestos-injured construction workers in Japan which will avoid the necessity of them bringing legal action to obtain compensation becomes operational on January 19, 2022 as per stipulations in the Construction Asbestos Benefits Law which was adopted by the Diet on June 9, 2021. The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has pledged to “make every possible effort to implement the benefit system based on this law,” including the distribution of information to potential applicants. See: 建設アスベスト給付金法が１月19日に施行されます [Construction Asbestos Benefits Act will come into effect on January 19].

Asbestos Concerns in Korean Cities

Jan 13, 2022

Campaigners from the Korean groups Environmental Health Civic Center and Incheon Environmental Movement Association revealed on January 12, 2022 the findings of tests which showed that landscaping boulders used at two landmark sites contained tremolite asbestos fibers. The toxic products were located at Incheon Grand Park and the Bucheon Shopping Mall in the cities of Seoul and Bucheon respectively. The use of asbestos has been banned in Korea since 2003. See: 환경단체 "인천대공원·부천 복합쇼핑몰서 석면 검출" [Environmental group “Detection of asbestos in Incheon Grand Park and Bucheon Shopping Mall”].

Asbestos Audits for Smaller Premises

Jan 11, 2022

New legislation – the Amendment to the Asbestos Safety Control Act – has been proposed by Korea’s National Assembly's Environment and Labor Committee intended to close loopholes which had allowed unsafe practices to continue by owners of buildings with a total floor space of less than 500 m² including administrative and public institutions, medical and cultural facilities and schools, all of which will now have to undertake asbestos audits to identify the presence and condition of asbestos-containing material on site. See: [e법안 프리즘]윤준병, ‘건축물 석면조사 사각지대 해소법’ 마련 [[e-Bill Prism] Jun-Byung Yoon, ‘A method for resolving the blind spots of asbestos investigation in buildings’].

Calls for Asbestos Ban!

Jan 7, 2022

On January 7, 2022, it was reported that civil society groups in the Philippines were reconfirming support for an immediate and comprehensive ban on the use of all asbestos-containing products on the grounds of public health and safety. In a January 6 statement, EcoWaste and the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) said that the Chemical Control Order (CCO) for Asbestos “needs serious enhancement” in order to stop the import of asbestos fiber and products containing asbestos. According to TUCP President Raymond Mendoza, the lack of asbestos warning labels on toxic material and a widespread complacency about asbestos exposures will lead to higher levels of disease in the future. See: EcoWaste, TUCP push for stronger anti-asbestos policy.

Phasing out Asbestos Use

Jan 5, 2022

A case study from the Tri Le commune in Vietnam’s Que Phong district was discussed in the article cited below which also recapped the health warnings given at a December 2021 asbestos awareness conference. The experience of the Thi Phuc family was related as an example of how disadvantaged people in the country’s mountainous areas might better safeguard their families’ well-being by replacing toxic asbestos-cement roofing tiles with environmentally friendly alternatives such as iron roofing sheets. See: Quế Phong, Nghệ An: Bỏ tấm lợp Fibro xi măng có nguy cơ nhiễm amiăng sang lợp mái tôn [Que Phong, Nghe An: Replacing the use of toxic asbestos-cement roofing sheets with corrugated iron roofs].

Provincial Backing for Asbestos Removal

Jan 5, 2022

From December 30, 2021 until February 25, 2022, economically challenged residents in Hampyeong County in Korea’s South Jeolla Province can apply for subsidies to remove toxic asbestos-cement roofing from domestic properties and non-residential buildings such as barns and warehouses; the budget allocated by the Provincial authorities for this phase of its “2022 slate treatment and roof improvement support project” totals 352 million won (US$~295,000). See: 전남 함평군,1급 발암물질 석면 '노후 슬레이트 처리 지원사업’ 접수 [The 'Aging slate Treatment Support Project' for asbestos, a class 1 carcinogen, implemented in Hampyeong-gun, Jeonnam].

Asbestos Alert in Vietnam

Jan 4, 2022

Vietnamese civil society groups in collaboration with Australian experts held a workshop on December 27, 2021 in the Que Phong district of Nghe An Province to raise awareness about the asbestos health hazard. The speakers detailed the consequences of occupational as well as environmental exposures to asbestos-containing roofing material, which remains a common choice for lower income families in some parts of the country. Calls for tax incentives to support the use of asbestos-free products were made. See: Tập huấn 'Nâng cao nhận thức về tác hại của amiăng đến sức khỏe đồng bào dân tộc thiểu số [Training on ‘Raising awareness about the harmful effects of asbestos on the health of ethnic minorities’].

Saga Court Settlement Update

Dec 24, 2021

On December 22, 2021, three asbestos cases brought against the Japanese government by bereaved family members were settled before trial proceedings commenced at the Saga District Court. The litigation related to toxic employment at a former asbestos product factory in Tosu City, on the island of Kyushu. These cases were the last of 123 similar claims listed for adjudication by judges at the Saga Court. See: 鳥栖アスベスト訴訟で新たに３人和解　佐賀地裁へ提訴の原告全員和解 [Three new settlements in Tosu asbestos proceedings. Reconciliation of all plaintiffs in Saga District Court].

Asbestos Removal in Schools

Dec 22, 2021

On December 21, 2021, the Department of Education of the South Korean Province of Chungnam announced that 92 billion won (US$ 78.3m) had been allocated for work to promote school safety in 2022. Amongst the projects being funded by these resources is work to dismantle and remove asbestos from schools – due to be completed by 2026, a year before the Ministry of Education target. Commenting on the raft of improvements which will be made next year, the Superintendent of Education Kim Ji-cheol said: “the health and growth of students and the safety of the educational community must be prioritized.” See: 충남교육청, 안전한 교육환경 조성에 920억원 투자 [The Chungnam Office of Education is investing 92 billion won in the creation of a safe educational environment].

Asbestos Data and Support for Victims

Dec 20, 2021

Following the release on December 15, 2021 by the Japan Ministry of Labor of asbestos disease data, civil society groups organized a telephone asbestos hot line on December 16 & 17 for people concerned about historic asbestos exposures at work or in the environment. According to government figures, 1,060 people with mesothelioma or asbestos-related lung cancer were eligible last year for benefits from the national scheme for occupational injuries and diseases. A Ministry official predicted that in years to come 1,000 people will be eligible for this asbestos disease compensation. See: Annual asbestos payouts likely for 1,000 people for years to come.

Victory for Kyushu Construction Workers

Dec 17, 2021

News of an agreement between the Japanese Government and 52 plaintiffs, most of whom were surviving family members of construction workers from the Kyushu region who had been affected by asbestos-related diseases, was announced at a Tokyo news conference on December 13, 2021. The central government, which after a ten-year legal battle apologized to the families, offered to pay each claimant about 10 million yen (US $88,900) depending on the severity of his health issues. A government fund to compensate construction workers injured by occupational asbestos exposures will become operational in June 2022. See: Court-mediated settlement on asbestos damage too late for many.

Experts Call for Benefits’ Review

Dec 14, 2021

An investigation undertaken by academics and medical experts into the benefits available in Japan for people with asbestos-related diseases has identified a “disparity in relief” between the amounts they receive and the amounts paid by the government to other claimants with occupationally-caused diseases. The recommendations made by the “Asbestos Damage Relief System Study Group,” which were announced on December 12 at a meeting in Tokyo, included an uplift in monthly payments and a national review of the ”entire national system to eliminate disparities and gaps." See: アスベスト被害救済で格差が学者らが制度見直し提言 [Disparity in asbestos damage relief; expert proposals to improve system].

Call for Asbestos Ban in Thailand

Dec 6, 2021

An article on the news portal of the Pattaya Mail highlighted the fact that despite a government commitment to ban asbestos in 2000, no action had been taken to implement prohibitions. In recognition of this lapse, a session entitled Asbestos-Free Thailand was held by the Public Relations Department of the Thai National Health Assembly to consider actions to progress this vital safeguard for Thai citizens. Speakers at the event included: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Health Anutin Charnvirakul, Public Relations Department Director-General Lt. Gen. Sansern Kaewkamnerd, and National Health Commission Office Deputy Secretary-General Prida Tae-arak. See: Forum held to realize ‘Asbestos-free Thailand’.

Banning Asbestos Use in Vietnam

Nov 24, 2021

A commentary by Associate Professor Dr. Bui Thi An, Director of the Institute of Natural Resources, cited below, elucidated the efforts of civil society activists, trade unionists, medical and scientific experts and politicians to protect Vietnamese people from toxic exposures to asbestos. As per a request by the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Construction drafted a Roadmap to End the Use of Chrysotile Asbestos by 2023 and a National Action Plan to Eliminate Asbestos-Related Diseases. Unfortunately, it looks like asbestos vested interests were able to forestall implementation of these protocols and so prolong the use of asbestos-containing construction material in Vietnam for the foreseeable future. See: Quá trình vận động dừng sử dụng Amiăng trắng ở Việt Nam [Campaign to stop the use of chrysotile in Vietnam].

Increase in Asbestos Output

Nov 18, 2021

A Russian language article uploaded on November 16, 2021 reported on current developments at the Kazakh company Kostanay Minerals JSC, one of the world’s biggest asbestos producers. According to a company spokesman, Kostanay is now working at full capacity and is on track to produce 248,000 tonnes of asbestos fiber in 2021. Almost all (98%) of the company’s output is exported to countries in Central and Southeast Asia. Plans to ban asbestos use by Ukraine – a current importer of Kazakh asbestos – are being countered at the very highest levels via communications and negotiations of Kazkh ministries, intergovernmental agencies and the Kazakh embassy with their counterparts in Ukraine. See: Из пике на пик [From peak to peak].

Asbestos Awareness Cooperative Project

Nov 17, 2021

On the morning of November 10, 2021 a signing ceremony took place, in Hanoi, of a Memorandum of Understanding by Australia’s Union Aid Abroad (APHEDA) and Vietnamese Groups: the Association for the Support of Mountainous Economic Development and the Human Rights Research Center in mountainous areas. The signatories pledged to cooperate on a project to raise awareness about the asbestos health hazard to ethnic minorities including people who live in the country’s mountainous region where asbestos roofing remains a popular choice for many householders. See: Lễ ký kết thỏa thuận hợp tác nâng cao nhận thức về mối nguy hại của amiăng [Signing ceremony of cooperation agreement to raise awareness about the dangers of asbestos].

Construction Workers Families' Settlement

Nov 17, 2021

On November 10, 2021, Judge Takeshi Tachikawa in Japan’s Fukuoka District Court agreed a settlement with the Government over claims by twenty bereaved families of construction workers from Fukuoka, Kumamoto Prefecture. The cases – known collectively as the Kyushu Construction Asbestos Proceedings – were over the continued failure by the authorities to protect workers from occupational exposures to asbestos. This was the first settlement in Kyushu after the May 2021 Supreme Court ruling which had acknowledged the negligence of the Government and building material manufacturers. See: アスベスト訴訟、九州初の和解…元労働者遺族ら２０人と国 [Asbestos proceedings, Kyushu's first settlement ... 20 former workers' bereaved families and the country].

Support for Asbestos Victims

Nov 12, 2021

On Saturday, November 20, 2021 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm a free, confidential emergency telephone hotline will be operational to take enquiries from Japanese people worried about asbestos exposures. The service is being offered by legal and medical experts in Nagoya City who will provide information about available benefits and treatment for the injured. See: アスベスト(石綿)による健康被害についての無料電話相談を実施 [Free telephone consultation on health hazards caused by asbestos].

Victory for Construction Workers

Nov 9, 2021

On November 4, 33 plaintiffs settled claims with the Japanese Government over outdoor occupational asbestos exposures at construction sites; the sum awarded was 435 million yen (US$3.8m). Prior to the settlement the lawsuit was scheduled to be heard by Judge Nohisa Honda at the Osaka District Court. Although the Government had agreed compensation terms for asbestos-injured construction workers previously, they had excluded from the settlement people who had worked outdoors. This development could be pivotal for future claims. See: 屋外作業員、国と初和解　建設アスベスト訴訟―大阪地裁 [Outdoor workers settle for the first time with the government in construction asbestos proceedings in Osaka District Court].

Calls for Government Support for Victims

Nov 8, 2021

At a November 4 press conference at Ulsan City Hall, members of the Ulsan branch of the National Plant Construction Labor Union called upon the Korean Government to support petrochemical workers who had contracted asbestos-related diseases as a result of workplace exposures at the Ulsan Petrochemical Plant. According to the union, in 2018, 14 out of 120 union members tested had contracted asbestos-related lung disease; in 2019, 9 out of 82 members examined were diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. See: 울산플랜트건설노조 “석면 피해 검진·조사 지원 조례 제정하라” [Ulsan Plant Construction Union “Enact ordinance to support asbestos damage inspection and investigation”].

Accepting China’s Asbestos Reality

Nov 4, 2021

In something of a remarkable turnaround, an article uploaded on November 1, 2021 to a Chinese website announced that a new treatment – based on the use of nivolumab combined with ipilimumab (CheckMate-743) – for the signature cancer associated with asbestos exposure, mesothelioma had been approved by the National Medical Products Administration of China. China is amongst the world’s largest producers and consumers of asbestos and information on the occurrence of asbestos-related diseases had been hard to access. See: 打破恶性胸膜间皮瘤治疗僵局，免疫“双子座”改写患者生存期 [Break the deadlock in the treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma, immune "Gemini" rewrites the survival period for patients].

Toxic Railway Imports into Vietnam

Oct 25, 2021

On October 24, 2021, an article was uploaded to a Vietnam news portal which raised the alert over the donation by Japan of 37 forty-year old railway carriages which could contain products made with asbestos. Although the Japanese carriages were more modern than the ones currently used in Vietnam, experts warned of environmental, health and economic issues posed by putting into service carriages known to be contaminated. If a specialist company in Vietnam were to remove the asbestos material, there is no service licensed to handle hazardous asbestos waste in Vietnam. See: Vụ 37 toa tàu Nhật Bản tặng, cần xem xét cẩn trọng vật liệu sản xuất [The case of 37 carriages donated by Japan, need to carefully consider production materials].

Outreach Initiative for Asbestos Victims

Oct 25, 2021

On October 21 & 22, 2021 a “Healing Camp” took place in Gongju, South Chungcheong Province, Korea to help bolster the psychological health of people suffering from asbestos-related diseases. The event, which has been held every year since 2015, was hosted by the Asbestos Environmental Health Center of Soonchunhyang University, and had a particular emphasis on the mental and physical stress caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. The participants benefited from time spent in the Magoksa forest, recreational activities and health information sessions. See: 충남, 석면 피해자 심리적 안정 돕는다 [Chungcheongnam-do helps asbestos victims to psychologically stabilize].

Asbestos Eradication in Schools

Oct 25, 2021

The removal of asbestos from schools in Korea is not being achieved at a uniform rate, with lower than average rates of eradication in Seoul, Gyeonggi and Daejeon. A document released on October 24, 2021 listed the asbestos removal rates from schools as reported by 17 metropolitan/provincial offices of education; nationwide, the average was 56.2% at the end of June, 2021. Better than average results were achieved in Sejong (99.9%), Jeonbuk and Gangwon (81.7%), and Jeju (71.0%). Korea’s Ministry of Education has set a deadline of 2027 for the complete elimination of asbestos from schools. See: 학교 석면 제거 지역별로 편차 커…서울·경기 절반 안 돼 [Asbestos removal in schools varies widely by region… Less than half for Seoul and Gyeonggi-do].

Asbestos Industry Growth Reported

Oct 22, 2021

During an interview, Kazakhstan asbestos entrepreneur Erbol Nurkhozhaev reported that chrysotile (white) asbestos fiber production at the mine owned by Kostanay Minerals JSC was reaching capacity levels. He predicted that production in 2021 would reach 250,000 tons(t), up from 227,000t in 2020. The company plans to add another shift to the work roster so that by 2024 production could reach 350,000t/year. Negotiations in Ukraine and Turkey were, he said, ongoing despite the fact that the former country plans to ban asbestos and the later banned it in 2010. Kostanay will be targeting markets in Central and Southeast Asia where demand for asbestos is growing. See: «Мы вышли на предел мощности», - Ербол НУРХОЖАЕВ [“We have reached the limit of capacity,” – Erbol Nurkhozhaev].

Post-Pandemic Calls to Ban Asbestos

Oct 20, 2021

Increasing mobilization of civil society groups in Asia has highlighted the human cost of asbestos use. According to the Regional Secretary of the Building and Wood Workers International Apolinar Tolentino: “This tragic death toll will in future, be avoidable, if countries stop importing asbestos. While global asbestos consumption has fallen by 75 percent in the last 40 years, this is not the case in Asia, where almost all exports are now landing. This is because the asbestos industry still has influence in many governments in Asia.” “There are,” said campaigner Phillip Hazelton “much safer, high quality and competitively priced alternative products for all those that currently are in use that contain asbestos.” See: Calls for asbestos bans across Asia and Pacific intensify.

New Data Identifies Asbestos Hotspots

Oct 20, 2021

Korean campaigners have, for the first time, been able to confirm the deadly repercussions for people living in houses with asbestos-cement roofing using official data. Information collected by officials in the South Korean City of Busan, who have been monitoring the incidence of asbestos cancer since 2011, showed an elevated incidence of asbestos-related disease (ARD) in 11 densely populated areas with asbestos roofing. In these areas, a total of 119 people have contracted ARD. Thirty thousand homes in Busan still have asbestos-containing roofing. See: [취재수첩]119명 석면 질환, 국내 첫 공식 수치 [Reporter's Handbook] Korea's First Official Statistics on 119 Asbestos Disease cases.

Online Rally Calls for Relief Reforms

Oct 15, 2021

An online rally, attended by eight members of the Diet, victims of asbestos-related diseases and relatives, was held on October 7, 2021 by a group representing asbestos cancer sufferers, to highlight the inadequacy of medical care and the paucity of treatment options for patients with mesothelioma, the signature cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. Discrepancies existing under the Asbestos Health Damage Relief Act which financially penalized sufferers were also examined. See: アスベスト被害者の救済制度　「抜本改正」求めオンライン集会 [Online rally for asbestos victim relief system “dramatic revision”].

Alert over Asbestos Use in Vietnam

Oct 12, 2021

The article cited below appeared on October 9, 2021 on a Vietnamese website and warned of the dangers posed by the continued use of a class 1 carcinogen in Vietnam. With a latency period measured in decades and the widespread presence of asbestos-containing material throughout the country, workers and consumers remain at risk of toxic exposures on a daily basis. Diseases linked with exposure to asbestos include several types of cancer. See: Bị hơn 60 quốc gia cấm, loại “chất độc” gây ung thư mà WHO khuyến cáo hóa ra đang rình rập ngay trong những đồ vật quen thuộc nhà bạn [Banned by more than 60 countries, the “poison” that the WHO tells us causes cancer turns out to be lurking within familiar objects].

New Asbestos Roofing Factory

Oct 12, 2021

On October 7, 2021, a new factory for the production of asbestos-cement roofing material was opened by the President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon in the city of Buston in the north of the country. The manufacturing equipment for the new plant was made in China, one of the world’s biggest producers and users of asbestos. The plant’s output will be sold domestically and will replace imported goods. President Rahmon urged factory owner Zarif Samadov to expand production levels and launch new product lines. See: Рахмон открыл новое промышленное предприятие в Бустоне [Rahmon opens new industrial plant in Buston].

Progress in Banning Asbestos: Update

Oct 12, 2021

Despite the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic in Vietnam, there has been substantial progress made by ban asbestos campaigners with a 50% drop in asbestos fiber imports in the last two years. The fall in imports has been due to increasing awareness of the asbestos hazard which has resulted from actions undertaken by the Vietnam OSH Association, the Institute for Resources, Environment and Community Development and their Vietnamese partners working in collaboration with the Australian organization Union Aid Abroad, the German Catholic Bishops’ Organization for Development Cooperation, the Asian Ban Asbestos Network and others. See: Vietnam Eliminating Asbestos Disease Campaign Update.

Secondary Occupational Exposure Case

Oct 12, 2021

On October 6, 2021, a settlement was reached by lawyers representing the Japanese Government with the family of a woman who died from asbestos cancer. Although the deceased had not worked with asbestos herself, she had been employed from 1953-1954 and 1957-1960 in a factory in Amagaski City where the processing of asbestos had taken place. A payment of ¥14 million (US$125,200) compensation was made. See: アスベスト扱わない作業で死亡の女性…国が賠償金１４００万円の支払いで遺族と和解 [A woman who died from secondary occupational asbestos exposure... The government settled with the bereaved family by paying compensation of 14 million yen].

Calls to Ban Asbestos in Asia!

Oct 7, 2021

An article on the website of the Building and Woodworkers International (BWI) reported the ongoing mobilization by BWI affiliates, asbestos victims’ groups and partnering organizations which are calling for asbestos to be outlawed by Asian governments in order to protect the health of workers and members of the public. A Joint Communiqué issued at the end of a three-day online conference last month said that “asbestos, which is still being consumed in many countries, is a time bomb that can explode at any moment with deadly consequences.” See: Asia: Advocates push for a total ban of asbestos trade.

Asbestos Hotlines

Oct 7, 2021

From 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. on October 5 & 6, 2021, citizens concerned about workplace asbestos exposures in Japan, past and present, were able to access to a range of specialists in Sendai on an asbestos hotline set up by trade unions, medical institutions and legal professionals. Whilst the aim was to spread awareness of the rights of construction workers injured by occupational asbestos exposures, callers throughout Japan were also able to consult on issues relating to other diseases caused by toxic exposures at workplaces. See: 建設アスベスト被害　電話相談会 [Construction asbestos damage telephone counselling].

Korean Asbestos Hotspots

Oct 4, 2021

The South Korea city of Busan has the second highest number of asbestos patients (16.1%) in the country after Chungnam (36%), according to an analysis undertaken by the Environmental Health Civic Center and Korea Ban Asbestos Network. On October 3, 2021, they announced that, according to government data, 5,295 people received asbestos benefits in Korea between 2011 and 2021. There are 10 abandoned mines in Chungnam which are, it is believed, contaminated with asbestos. Asbestos factories were operational in Busan between the 1970s and 1990s. See: 전국 석면환자 부산 2위…경기·서울보다 많아 [Busan ranked second in the nation for asbestos patients… More than Gyeonggi and Seoul].

Government Failing Asbestos Victims

Oct 1, 2021

At an event at the Press Center of the Chungnam Provincial Office on September 30, 2021, Korean asbestosis victim Nam-eok Lee joined other speakers in calling for new government measures to recognize asbestos victims, improve compensation payments and provide better treatment for victims. Lee told the meeting: “I never worked in an asbestos mine… I lived right next to Gwangcheon Station, and at that time, there was a mountain of asbestos piled up like a mountain. I used to paint on the ground with asbestos.” The Government was not, he said, managing asbestos properly. See: “석면 방치한 정부 책임 커... 차등 없이 지원해야” [The government is responsible for neglecting asbestos… We need support without discrimination.”

Record Number of Mesothelioma Deaths

Sep 23, 2021

Data revealed on September 10, 2021 by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare documented a record number of deaths in 2020 from mesothelioma, the signature cancer associated with asbestos exposure. Fatalities were concentrated in the areas of Tokyo, Osaka, Yokohama, Sapporo, Nagoya and Amagasaki, with the number of deaths amongst males (1,337) nearly five times that of females (268). Epidemiologists predict that between 2000 and 2040, the Japanese mesothelioma epidemic could claim a further 103,000 lives. See: 昨年の中皮腫死1600人超で最多　ワースト3は東京・大阪・神奈川　アスベスト曝露と連動 [Last year's mesothelioma deaths exceeded 1,600, the worst 3 linked to Tokyo / Osaka / Kanagawa asbestos exposure].

Justice for Power Station Worker

Sep 21, 2021

On September 15, 2021, a victim’s judgment handed down last month by a district court in the Japanese city of Yokosuka was finalized when neither party lodged a motion to appeal. The plaintiff Haruo Koyama had been awarded ¥22 million (US$201,000) by the court for having been negligently exposed to asbestos over a period of 40 years by his employer at the Hitachi Power Station. As a result of that exposure, Koyama contracted the asbestos cancer mesothelioma. See: アスベストで中皮腫発症　会社に２０００万円支払いの地裁判決が確定 [Mesothelioma caused by asbestos. A district court decision for company to pay 20 million yen is confirmed].

Widespread Flouting of Asbestos Regs

Sep 15, 2021

For the first time since the Air Pollution Control Act was revised in April 2021, the results of spot checks – in June 2021 at 227 demolition and renovation sites – by the authorities in Osaka Prefecture were announced. Forty percent of the premises inspected were not complying with regulations that mandated obligations to prepare and display asbestos site audits prior to the commencement of work and prevent the liberation of asbestos fibers into the air. See: アスベスト規制違反法改正後も約4割　大阪府内のパトロールで発覚 [Violation of asbestos regulations Approximately 40% noncompliance was discovered by patrol in Osaka Prefecture after revision of law].

Asbestos Eradication in South Korea

Sep 14, 2021

An update on an eradication program of asbestos-cement roofing in North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea confirmed that by September 10, toxic roofing had been removed from 3,970 houses and 600+ other structures. Work will be carried out on 2,328 additional properties by the end of the year. The annual budget for this work was increased by 18% in 2021 compared to 2020. The majority of the work is subsidized by the Province as a matter of public and environmental health. Asbestos monitoring and fact-finding by officials continue to be a priority matter for the Province. See: “석면슬레이트 제거로 도민 건강하고 보다나은 환경 조성!” [“Creating a healthier and better environment for residents by removing asbestos slate!”].

Bad News, Good News

Sep 8 2021

Despite findings by India’s Supreme and High Courts supporting the need to protect human beings from exposures to asbestos, neither the central nor state governments have taken action to enforce these pronouncements. The exception is the State of Bihar which is the first State to forbid the setting up of asbestos factories. As a result, the owner of 22 such factories – CK Birla Hyderabad Industries Ltd. – is transitioning its asbestos technology to a safer, eco-friendly production process using asbestos-free materials. India is one of the top asbestos-using countries in the world and the foremost importer of raw asbestos fiber. See: Why no ban on asbestos?

Promise to Raise Asbestos Awareness

Sep 6, 2021

During a virtual meeting on August 31, 2021 of Cambodia’s Labour Minister Ith Sam Heng and technical specialist on occupational safety and health Yuka Ujita from the International Labor Organization (ILO), the Minister committed his Government to undertaking programs to raise raising awareness of the asbestos hazard throughout the country. The Minister confirmed plans to work in collaboration with the ILO as well as the Australian body: Union Aid Abroad – APHEDA on this initiative. See: Phnom Penh Post – Ministry launches review of asbestos status in Kingdom.

Asbestos Victims’ Benefits Uplift

Sep 3, 2021

From January 1, 2022, South Korea’s Ministry of Environment (MoE) will increase benefits to asbestos victims by 5.6% in line with other Government benefit increases; it has been providing benefits such as long-term care allowances (monthly payments for treatment, care and living expenses), funeral expenses, and condolence money, for sufferers of asbestos-related diseases or family members since 2011. Park Yong-gyu, director of the Environment and Health Department of the MoE promised to diversify efforts to find asbestos victims and “continue to expand support for people who have suffered health damage from asbestos.” See: 내년부터 석면피해 구제급여 지급액 5.6% 인상 [Asbestos damage relief benefits will increase by 5.6% from next year].

Compensation for Power Plant Worker

Sep 3, 2021

On August 30, 2021, the district court of Yokosuka, Japan issued a victim’s verdict when it ordered the owners of the Hitachi Taura Plant (now renamed Hitachi Power Solutions) to pay Haruo Koyama ¥ 22 million (US$199,000) for occupational exposures to asbestos which resulted in him contracting the asbestos cancer mesothelioma. Mr. Koyama had worked as a welder at the plant from September 1961 until March 1999. Welcoming the resolution of the case, Mr. Koyama urged the company to institute a compensation scheme for asbestos victims without the need for legal proceedings. See: アスベスト訴訟、元従業員勝訴　会社に2200万円支払い命令 [Asbestos proceedings, company ordered to pay ex-employee 22 million yen].

Asbestos Roof Removal Subsidies

Sep 3, 2021

The latest phase of a US$300,000 (344 million won) program being run by the authorities on the South Korean island of Jeju which subsidizes the removal of asbestos-cement roofing will close to applicants on November 30, 2021. Until then, homeowners can obtain grants of up to US$3,000 to remove asbestos roofing with larger subsidies available to low income households. Between 2011 and 2021, toxic roofing was removed from 7,878 buildings on Jeju Island. The next phase of this program will commence in February, 2022. See: 제주도 '발암물질 석면' 슬레이트 철거 지붕개량 추진 [Jeju Island’s ‘carcinogenic asbestos’ slate removal and roof improvement promotion].

Grassroots Support for Victims

Aug 20, 2021

From 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on August 21 and 22, 2021, a national telephone hotline service will be operational at the toll-free number 0120/349/931 to provide information to people who were occupationally or environmentally exposed to asbestos in Japan. The service is being administered by the Asbestos Victim Relief Fund NGO from Kobe, the Pneumoconiosis and Asbestos Victims Relief Fund from Kanagawa Prefecture and partnering organizations. Information on workers' accident compensation, the intricacies of the benefit system, health measures and other relevant matters will be available. See: 石綿健康被害ホットライン開設　2１、２２日全国一斉実施 [Asbestos health damage hotline opened 21st and 22nd nationwide].

Environmental Survey in Asbestos Hotspot

Aug 17, 2021

This month (August, 2021), Korea’s Chungnam-do Health and Environment Research Institute announced plans to conduct an asbestos survey in Gobuk-myeon, Seosan-si. In the Chungnam region, 76% of the country is made up of rocks that are highly likely to contain asbestos, and abandoned asbestos mines account for 25 out of 38 (66%) of Korea’s derelict asbestos mines. The objective of this project is to prevent damage to the environment and protect the health of residents by controlling regional development activities that could liberate toxic fibers. See: 충남도 보건환경연구원, 서산 고북 일원서 석면 실태조사 [Chungnam-do Health and Environment Research Institute, asbestos survey in Gobuk, Seosan].

Mesothelioma Trends 1990 to 2017

Aug 17, 2021

A new study by a coalition of scientists, the majority of whom were based in China, examined the global incidence of mesothelioma – the signature cancer associated with asbestos exposure. The authors reported a substantial rise in the number of cases of mesothelioma and mortality rates worldwide, and concluded that a “complete and immediate ban on asbestos use may be warranted.” The nationality of 18 of the 20 authors is noteworthy as China has, for years, been one of the world’s biggest consumers and producers of chrysotile asbestos. See: Assessment of Global Trends in the Diagnosis of Mesothelioma From 1990 to 2017.

Going Asbestos Free in India!

Aug 16, 2021

HIL Ltd., formerly Hindustan Asbestos, has announced its intention to abandon toxic asbestos technology as it transitions to “an integrated green building materials company.” In a press interview, CEO Dhirup Roy Choudhary said that: “The Asbestos business, which was contributing 80 per cent of revenue has now come down to 30 per cent, with rest of the 70 per cent from non-asbestos business.” The company has 22 factories in India, and 2 in Germany and Austria; it plays a leading role in India’s building products’ sector and it can be certain that where HIL goes, others will follow. See: HIL eyes $1b revenues as it transforms to an integrated green building materials company.

Asbestos Products’ Companies Denounced

Aug 13, 2021

Japanese construction workers and bereaved family members expressed growing frustration by the failures of building materials manufacturers, who were found guilty of using asbestos in their products, to negotiate and support a national compensation scheme as ordered by the Supreme Court in May 2021 following years of litigation in multiple jurisdictions. Speaking at a public rally in Tokyo on June 16, asbestos cancer widow Ryoko Akechi deplored the intransigence of the building material companies calling them the “the number one perpetrator” of the asbestos epidemic. See: 建設石綿の被害者ら、依然動かぬメーカーにいらだち募る [Construction Asbestos Victims Grow Frustrated with Manufacturers Who Fail to Act].

Victory for Hokkaido Plaintiffs!

Aug 10, 2021

On August 5, 2021 a settlement was reached in a lawsuit brought by asbestos-injured construction workers and bereaved relatives from Hokkaido against the Japanese State and building material manufacturers. Litigation proceedings began in April 2011 at the Sapporo District Court; in 2017, the Government’s negligence was acknowledged but not that of the manufacturers. An appeal was lodged. This month a settlement was reached following the landmark Supreme Court ruling in May 2021 which had supported the rights of the asbestos-injured. See: 国と初の集団和解成立北海道建設アスベスト訴訟札幌高裁 [First Class Settlement Reached with the State in Hokkaido Construction Asbestos Lawsuit, Sapporo High Court].

Asbestos Support: Update

Aug 10, 2021

On August 6, 2021, it was reported that Akashi City had set up an advice center – the Asbestos General Counselling Service – for people who had contracted asbestos-related diseases in Japan. The center has seven members of staff and lawyers and provides “a one-stop consultation service” for the injured and their family members. It is open from 9 a.m. till 5 p.m. every weekday and can be accessed by calling: 078-918-5002. See: 明石市がアスベストの健康被害の相談にあたる総合窓口開設 [Akashi City opens a general contact point for consultation on asbestos health hazards].

Political Dispute Cancels Asbestos Program

Aug 4, 2021

The commencement of asbestos remediation work at a daycare center in Busan was postponed indefinitely on July 26, 2021 due to a lack of funds. Although forty million won (US$35,000) had been earmarked for the work, a dispute in the Nam-gu Council prevented the funds from being released. Parents expressed anger over the cancellation because of the continued hazard the asbestos posed to children, saying both the Congress and Council had evaded their responsibilities. An official from Nam-gu said: “We cannot know whether the construction will be done until the parliament passes the supplementary budget bill.” See: 기초의회 다툼에 어린이집 석면 철거공사 무기 연기 [Asbestos demolition work at daycare center postponed due to dispute in local council].

Government Settles Asbestos Claim

Jul 29, 2021

The case brought by the wife and two sons of a plasterer from Shizuoka City, Japan who died in 2004 aged 56 of asbestos-related lung cancer was settled on July 26, 2021 in the Tokyo High Court. The Government agreed to pay compensation of more than 16.56 million yen (US$150,000) for having failed to protect construction workers from the asbestos hazard. This is the second settlement reached since the landmark Supreme Court verdict (May 2021) recognizing the responsibility of the Government and building material manufacturers for asbestos disease in construction workers. See: 静岡石綿訴訟で和解成立　肺がんで死亡・左官業男性の遺族が国訴えた裁判 [Settlement in Shizuoka asbestos trial for bereaved family of a plasterer who died of lung cancer].

Protecting Asbestos Markets

Jul 29, 2021

A July 2021 blog by Karuna Vikram drew on an internal corporate memo from 1982 to reveal how the asbestos company Eternit-Manila successfully circumvented a surprise ban on asbestos-cement (A/C) pipes announced by President Ferdinand Marcos in 1982. Although Eternit publicly welcomed the investigation the President called for, in reality the company was were furiously working to have the ban suspended until conclusive evidence was amassed proving the that A/C pipes were a health hazard. Under the section headed “Staff Analysis,” Eternit admitted it was aware of the occupational and public health dangers posed by its A/C pipes. See: What Corporations Know and What They Claim to Know: Eternit and Asbestos Cement Pipes.

Asbestos Remediation of Schools

Jul 22, 2021

During the 2021 summer holidays, asbestos safety surveys and remediation work are being carried out in 19 elementary, middle, and high schools in Seoul, under the supervision of personnel from the Seoul Institute of Health and Environment and representatives of the Department of Education. Samples taken after the asbestos removal work has been completed will be examined with state-of-the-art laboratory equipment to ensure the work has been carried out correctly and that the premises are fit for purpose. Any adverse findings will be the cause for follow-up cleaning measures and further tests. See: 서울시, 유·초·중·고 석면 안전성 조사 실시[Seoul conducts asbestos safety survey for elementary, middle, and high schools].

Asbestos and Gastric Cancer

July 19, 2021

A study undertaken by researchers in Taiwan investigated the gastric cancer risk of workers exposed to asbestos. Compared with the general population, the standardized incidence ratios of the asbestos occupational cohort for gastric cancer increased both in males and females. Individuals who had been employed at 123 worksites where cases of malignant mesothelioma had been identified were found to have an increased risk for gastric cancer. The authors of this paper concluded that: “This 35-year retrospective cohort study of asbestos-exposed workers in Taiwan may provide support for an association between occupational exposure to asbestos and gastric cancer.” See: Cancer in Asbestos-Exposed Workers: A Retrospective Cohort Study Based on Taiwan Cancer Registry 1980–2015.

Korean Asbestos Training: Update

Jul 16, 2021

On July 13, 2021, the Korean Association for Asbestos Safety and Health announced that it would support “Intensive Asbestos Safety Management Training'” for municipal workers in 17 local governments across the country who deal with asbestos issues; educating officials in city halls, provincial, county and ward offices. While the main focus of the case-oriented education is practical measures for minimizing hazards in asbestos remediation operations, and asbestos safety management inspections, also covered are updates on asbestos management laws and safety protocols. See: 석면연대, 17개 지자체 대상 석면안전관리 심화 예방교육 지원 [Asbestos Coalition supports in-depth prevention education on asbestos safety management for 17 local governments].

Local Government’s New Victims’ Scheme

Jul 14, 2021

On July 12, 2021, Akashi City announced the launch of a consultation service for asbestos victims amid concerns about the repercussions of toxic exposures during the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake and the subsequent clean-up operations. The local government’s initiative will offer occupational and environmental victims a one-stop consultation service to facilitate their access to medical, social and legal services. See: 明石市がアスベスト相談窓口を開設　石綿の健康被害者を支援 [Akashi City Opens Asbestos Consultation Service Supporting Asbestos Victims].

Mission: Asbestos Bans in Asia

Jul 12, 2021

On its fortieth anniversary, Australia’s Union Aid Abroad (APHEDA) has recommitted itself to the campaign to ban asbestos in Asia: APHEDA’s campaign Asbestos. not here. not anywhere, its flagship concern for the next four years, “aims to ban Asbestos in Vietnam, Indonesia, Laos and Cambodia, while also aiding and abetting the global movement for a total ban on Asbestos.” Over recent years, APHEDA’s work has been crucial in raising awareness of the asbestos hazard in these countries and in building capacity for outreach work to empower workers and the public to demand protection from the deadly carcinogen which is still being used in their countries. See: Drive for social justice sparks almost 40 years of supporting workers’ rights globally.

Asbestos Management Training

Jul 12, 2021

On July 9, 2021, the The Jeollabuk-do Office of Education conducted training regarding protocols for the safe management of asbestos in schools. The program, entitled 2021 Summer Vacation Asbestos Dismantling and Removal School Team Training, began at 2 p.m. and was held at the Jeonbuk Education and Culture Center Assembly Hall. Amongst those eligible to attend this session were: staff from 48 schools in the province, officials from the Education Support Office, parents participating in the monitoring group and representatives of private companies engaged in asbestos removal work. See: 석면 모니터단 교육… 안전성·신뢰도 높인다 [Asbestos monitoring team training … Increase safety and reliability].

Legal Victory in Osaka

Jul 10, 2021

On July 8, 2021, the Osaka High Court issued a victim’s verdict in a case brought by the family of a 70-year old construction worker Mr. Iwao Kawahara who died from the cancer mesothelioma as a result of occupational asbestos exposures. The government agreed to pay his widow Chizuruko Kawahara the sum of ¥13.36 million (US$ 121,600). Commenting on the outcome of the case, Mrs. Kawahara said: “It was a long trial, but I am relieved that a settlement has been reached.” See: 建設石綿訴訟、作業員側と国が和解　最高裁判決後で初 [Construction asbestos proceedings, workers and country settled for the first time after Supreme Court decision].

Asbestos Remediation in Tamil Nadu

Jul 10, 2021

Work to replace aging asbestos-cement water pipes in the Indian city of Coimbatore is to be resumed after a hiatus caused by the coronavirus pandemic. The replacement iron pipeline will make water delivery safer and more reliable to customers on the State Bank Road. This initiative is indicative of a change in custom and use in the country which is the world’s biggest importer of asbestos fiber. According to asbestos experts in India, States like Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Maharashtra “are setting examples” by replacing asbestos material with safer alternatives. See: Work to lay drinking water pipeline to resume soon.

Hazard of Asbestos-Cement Roofing

Jul 5, 2021

A paper published by Korean researchers on June 28, 2021, which was part of a special issue on Asbestos and Cancer: Exposure from Neighboring Factories and Mines, Contaminated Soil, and Slate Roofs, examined the effects on human health of residential asbestos-cement slate-related exposure. Although the exposure was found to be of medium risk, as there was no threshold for carcinogenicity related to asbestos, this finding was something which needed further consideration, the authors concluded. See: Asbestos Exposure Level and the Carcinogenic Risk Due to Corrugated Asbestos-Cement Slate Roofs in Korea.

Asbestos Ban in Asia!

Jul 3, 2021

A new prohibition excluding the use of asbestos from projects funded by the Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is being lauded as a huge victory by ban asbestos campaigners in Asia, the region which accounts for the majority of annual global asbestos consumption. Whereas some use of chrysotile (white) asbestos had been allowed previously, according to new AIIB regulations absolutely no use will be permitted as per revisions of the Environmental and Social Framework which forbids “Production of, trade in, or use of asbestos fibres, whether or not bonded.” See: Asbestos industry takes a big hit in Asia.

New Asbestos Management Ordinance

Jul 3, 2021

A new bill – “Ordinance on Asbestos Safety Management and Support of Busan Metropolitan City” – sponsored by Busan City councillor Jae-young Kim was adopted by Busan Metropolitan City Council on June 30. According to Representative Kim, after the promulgation of the ordinance, councillors will cooperate with the relevant departments of Busan City so that the current asbestos-cement dismantling and disposal project can be carried out without any setback and a fact-finding survey be set up that can comprehensively monitor both the condition of material and fiber levels in the surrounding environment. See: “김재영 시의원, 석면안전관리 및 지원에 관한 조례 추진” [“City councilor Jae-young Kim, promotion of ordinance on asbestos safety management and support”].

Government Asbestos Disease Data

Jun 28, 2021

Data released by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare for 2020 revealed that the government had recognized as occupational injuries 1,059 cases of construction workers injured through asbestos exposures. In 2022, a government scheme to pay compensation to asbestos-injured construction workers and bereaved families will become operational. The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has set up a telephone consultation service to provide information: the phone number is 0570-006031. See: アスベスト吸い込み肺がんなど昨年度の労災認定1059人厚労省 [Asbestos inhalation Lung cancer, etc. Last year's occupational accident certification for 1059 people].

Asbestos Found at Site of Building Collapse

Jun 21, 2021

On June 17, 2021, staff from the Gwangju Environmental Movement Association and the Environmental Health and Citizens Center in the South Korean city of Gwangju, the 6th largest city in South Korea, held a press conference at the site of the collapse of a five-story building to announce that asbestos-cement fragments mixed with debris such as concrete had been collected that morning from the site. A week earlier, the Center had warned that asbestos was present at the site of the redevelopment area where the collapse of the building had occurred. See: 환경단체 “광주 철거건물 붕괴 현장에 발암물질 석면 방치돼” [Environmental group: “Carcinogenic asbestos left at the site of the collapse of the demolished building in Gwangju”].

Rally for Asbestos Victims

Jun 18, 2021

On June 16, 2021 at Tokyo’s Hibiya Open Air Theater, a rally was held by trade unionists and asbestos victims’ campaigners. Because of Covid restrictions, only 800 people were allowed to attend; these rallies generally attract thousands of attendees. Speakers at the event included representatives from all Japan’s political parties as well as from Zenkensoren – the National Federation of Construction Workers’ Unions) and Ban Asbestos Japan. Speakers addressed strategies for achieving justice for construction workers and ensuring that all asbestos-injured would benefit from a new government scheme. See: 建設アスベスト訴訟全国総決起集会　日比谷野外音楽堂 National general rally at Hibiya Open Air Concert Hall on behalf of asbestos-injured construction workers].

Municipal Asbestos Eradication

Jun 16, 2021

Gwangju Metropolitan City – the sixth largest city in South Korea – has embarked upon an ambitious and progressive program to eradicate the asbestos hazard including support for the: demolition of asbestos-containing buildings, removal of asbestos products, compilation and updating of asbestos surveys, asbestos management programs in public buildings, etc. Businesses as well as private homeowners were eligible to apply for funds to finance eligible projects under a number of municipal schemes. See: 광주시 석면 슬레이트 철거·처리 지원 [Gwangju City asbestos slate removal and treatment support].

Asian Bank Bans Asbestos Use in Projects

Jun 14, 2021

A document circulated last week solidified the indication previously given that the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) would ban asbestos use in all its projects. On pages 77 & 78 of the AIIB’s Environmental and Social Framework under the heading: Environmental and Social Exclusion List, the text of point 9 excluded from eligibility projects involving: “Production of, trade in, or use of asbestos fibers, whether or not bonded.” In a footnote, it was explained that: “Projects involving disposal of asbestos are not prohibited, provided a suitable asbestos management plan is adopted for such disposal.” See: Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. Environmental and Social Framework.

Asbestos Scheme for Construction Workers

Jun 10, 2021

The Japanese Government announced that a law had been passed at a plenary session of the upper house of the National Diet on June 9, 2021 under which a scheme to compensate asbestos-injured construction workers would be established without the need for victims or their families to take legal action. The government will pay between 5 and 13 million yen (~US$45,660-119,000) per victim and the scheme is due to become operational in 2022. Although self-employed workers are eligible for compensation under this scheme, construction workers who worked outdoors will not be able to bring a claim. See: 建設アスベスト給付金法が成立…１人あたり最大１３００万円補償 [Construction asbestos benefit law passed ... Up to 13 million yen compensation per person].

Chrysotile Sales during the Pandemic

Jun 10, 2021

An upbeat article about the financial outlook of the sole producer of chrysotile asbestos fiber in Kazakhstan, Kostanay Minerals JSC, reported that the company had increased production and exports by, respectively, nearly 20% and 40% in the first quarter of 2021. Growth in usage from Asian countries and increases in the price of metal tiles and sheets were expected to create increased and sustained demand for chrysotile fiber and products. The company’s innovation in production techniques and the adoption of ecological and environmentally-friendly policies were extolled by Erbol Nurkhozhaev, Kostanay’s Chairman of the Board. See: Спрос на хризотил-асбест будет устойчивым в период коронакризиса [Chrysotile Asbestos Demand Will Be Sustainable During The Corona Crisis].

Dying for Justice in Japan

Jun 7, 2021

A commentary in the June 5, 2021 issue of the Japan Times reflected on the implications of the May 2021 Supreme Court (SC) judgment which confirmed the negligence of the Japanese Government and building materials manufacturers for, respectively, failing to address the asbestos hazard in a timely fashion and for failing to put warning labels on asbestos-containing products. Due to the tortuous legal process required to obtain this decision, 70% of the plaintiffs who brought the lawsuit had died of their asbestos injuries before the SC had ruled. The author condemned the mindset of government officials which was one of continued denial and obfuscation. See: The damage done by a lengthy appeals process.

Government Acts on Asbestos Inequity!

Jun 4, 2021

On June 3, 2021, a bill to provide compensation to Japanese construction workers was passed in the House of Representatives. The legislation has been sent to the House of Councillors. It is expected that the new law will be enacted on June 11, 2021 and a national asbestos compensation scheme for construction workers will become operational on April 1, 2022. Under the terms of the draft bill, some asbestos-injured construction workers and bereaved relatives will be able to access up to ¥ 13 million (US$118,100) from the government-funded scheme. Workers who were employed in the open air at construction sites will not be eligible. See: 建設アスベスト集団訴訟救済法案が衆院で可決 [Construction workers asbestos relief bill passed by House of Representatives].

Supreme Court Asbestos Ruling

Jun 2, 2021

Legal developments in Japan last month were reviewed in the article cited below. The author explained the background to a unified Supreme Court claimants’ verdict for asbestos-injured construction workers from Kanagawa, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, 70% of whom had died during the 13 years that the litigation had been proceeding through the courts. The Japanese Government and manufacturers of asbestos-containing building products were held liable for failing to prevent toxic exposures. Claims brought by workers who had been employed out of doors were rejected. See: 建設アスベスト集団訴訟、最高裁で原告勝訴も屋外労働は救済対象外 [Construction asbestos class proceedings, plaintiffs win in Supreme Court, but outdoor labor is not covered by relief].

Act Now, Defendants Told

Jun 2, 2021

An editorial in The Asahi Shimbun, one of the four largest newspapers in Japan, called for a fully-funded compensation scheme for those who had been injured by workplace asbestos exposures in the construction industry in the aftermath of a landmark Supreme Court ruling against the Government and private corporations on May 17, 2021. Highlighting the ongoing failures of manufacturers to agree the terms of their contribution to the scheme, the editorial urged the defendants to cooperate in the process of allocating financial responsibility for the injuries sustained by the plaintiffs. See: EDITORIAL: Government must act quickly to compensate all asbestos victims.

Asbestos Alert

Jun 1, 2021

Highlighting the asbestos hazard in Vietnam, the author of the article cited below stated: “Asbestos is a toxic and dangerous mineral. Asbestos in all natural forms, including chrysotile asbestos, is a substance with proven carcinogenic activity in animals and humans…” Explaining the uses and hazards of this class 1 carcinogen, the author warned about the need for toxic exposures to be prevented: “When asbestos-containing material is damaged, activities around it should be kept to a minimum. Take all precautions to avoid damage to the asbestos material.” See: Cách an toàn khi chung sống với vật liệu chứa amiăng [How to be safe when living with asbestos-containing materials].

Trade Union Rally

Jun 1, 2021

Trade unionists from the Zenkyotokenchiku Labor Union and other labor groups took to the streets in Kyoto, Japan to show support for all construction workers injured by occupational asbestos exposures, including “outside workers” excluded from recent landmark court rulings upholding the responsibility of the Government and building materials manufacturers for deadly asbestos exposures. Spokesperson Yukio Hirayama, called for the establishment of a fund, financed by the government and the manufacturers, to compensate all asbestos-injured construction workers. See: すべての被害者救済へ運動強める　建設アスベスト訴訟最高裁判決受け、京建労が街頭訴え [Kyoto protest against aspects of supreme court ruling in asbestos case].

Screening for Asbestos-Related Diseases

May 28, 2021

On May 29 and 30 from 9 a.m. till 4 p.m., asbestos-exposed individuals from the South Korean City of Busan will undergo medical screening by staff from the Asbestos Environmental Health Center based at the Yangsan Pusan National University Hospital, as part of a municipal program to achieve earlier diagnoses of asbestos-related diseases. Alternatively, patients can make appointments to be seen on June 26 and 27. If any symptoms are found, patients will be referred for a follow-up examination at the Busan National University Hospital in Yangsan. See: 부산시, 석면피해 주민 건강영향조사 주말 검진 실시 [Health impact survey, Busan City conducts weekend check-ups for asbestos-damaged residents].

Asbestos Litigation: Update

May 26, 2021

Reviewing developments in Japan which saw the Supreme Court on May 17 recognize the rights of asbestos-injured construction workers to be compensated by the Government and the manufacturers of asbestos-containing building materials and the Prime Minister apologize to the claimants for the Government’s negligence, the author of the article cited below called for an immediate recognition of the rights of asbestos-injured construction workers excluded from the new scheme and for the manufacturers of the toxic products to be obligated to contribute to the national compensation fund. See: 建設石綿の被害一人も取り残さぬ救済制度を.[Construction asbestos damages. A relief system that leaves no one behind].

Japan’s Asbestos Legacy

May 25, 2021

An article which considered the seismic legal developments in May 2021 that overturned years’ of neglect of Japan’s asbestos victims reviewed data regarding national asbestos consumption and the incidence of asbestos-related disease and mortality over recent decades. The author estimated that to date, 10,000 people had been injured by occupational exposures to asbestos at construction sites, and that the final number of those affected could be in the tens of thousands. See: アスベスト被害訴訟（1）最高裁が判決で国の責任認める、補償制度新設へ [Asbestos Victim Proceedings (1) Supreme Court Recognizes National Responsibility in Judgment, To Establish Compensation System].

Legal Support for AsbestosVictims

May 24, 2021

One of the legal teams – “the Osaka Defense Team” –which represented plaintiffs whose claims for asbestos exposures against the Japanese Government and building material manufacturers were recognized on May 17, 2021 by the Supreme Court, held telephone consultation sessions last week to provide information to potential litigants from Osaka and elsewhere concerned about historic occupational asbestos exposures. Information was provided by the lawyers on the subject of the asbestos health hazard and compensation procedures. See: アスベストによる健康被害　無料の電話相談 [Health damage caused by asbestos. Free telephone consultation].

Update: Asbestos Claims Settlement

May 21, 2021

Following the massive coverage of a May 17, 2021 Supreme Court ruling in Japan supporting claims by asbestos-injured construction workers against the Government and building materials manufacturers, more details are emerging. Although the judgment by Presiding Justice Takuya Miyama found that the state’s liability dated from 1975 and included damage sustained by freelance and self-employed workers, claims from construction industry workers who had worked outside – such as roofers – were rejected. A bill to establish a relief system for an estimated 10,000 victims nationwide will be submitted by the Government during the current Diet session. See: Asbestos victims win relief funds after decade-long court battle.

Supreme Court Backs Asbestos Victims

May 18, 2021

On May 17, 2021, Japan’s Supreme Court issued a plaintiff’s verdict in its first unified asbestos judgment. The ruling found for the claimants in class action lawsuits brought by asbestos-injured construction workers or family members at district courts in in Tokyo, Yokohama, Osaka and Kyoto. The Supreme Court confirmed that the Government of Japan had been negligent in delaying action on the asbestos hazard and that manufacturers of building products were also liable for damage done by occupational exposure to their asbestos-containing products. On May 18, 2021, Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga planned to meet the plaintiffs to issue an apology on behalf of the Government for their injuries. See: Japan's top court holds state liable for asbestos diseases in workers.

Asbestos Hazard at Apartment Complex

May 18, 2021

On May 14, 2021, at a Seoul press conference, representatives of the Incheon Environmental Movement Association announced that ornamental stones used for landscaping an apartment complex in Songdo International City, Incheon contained tremolite asbestos. Environmental groups accused the construction company of the complex of violating the Asbestos Safety Management Act; a complaint has been filed with the police denouncing the company. See: 환경단체, '석면 검출' 인천 송도 아파트 건설사 대표 고발 [Environmental group accuses representative of construction company in Songdo, Incheon over ‘detection of asbestos’].

Toxic Legacy of Asbestos Mining

May 17, 2021

A new paper by Korean researchers – part of a Special Issue on Asbestos and Cancers: Exposure from Neighboring Factories and Mines, Contaminated Soil and Slate Roofs of the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health – reported that people living in close proximity to some abandoned asbestos mines had experienced health damage from toxic exposures to naturally occurring asbestos. The researchers recommended that the asbestos contamination be remediated. See: Activity-Based Exposure Levels and Cancer Risk Assessment Due to Naturally Occurring Asbestos for the Residents Near Abandoned Asbestos Mines in South Korea.

Supreme Court Asbestos Ruling

May 17, 2021

On May 17, 2021, the Japan Supreme Court will issue its ruling explaining the verdict handed down previously which had found the Japanese Government negligent for asbestos injuries sustained by construction workers. This is the first such ruling by the Supreme Court over the asbestos health hazard posed by the use of toxic construction material; the contents of the ruling could affect the level of compensation awards to plaintiffs. Since 2006, when asbestos use in building materials was banned in Japan, 1,200 workers and bereaved families have filed 33 lawsuits for asbestos damages. See: 建設石綿被害、賠償認める理由は?　最高裁が17日判決 [What is the reason for accepting compensation for construction asbestos damage? Supreme Court ruling on the 17th].

Nearly All Asbestos Exported!

May 17, 2021

Data released in an article on May 13, 2021, revealed that due to a collapse in the domestic chrysotile (white) asbestos market, nearly all the asbestos mined and processed in Kazakhstan by Kostanay Minerals JSC, the country’s sole asbestos fiber producer, is being exported; in other words, whilst 220,000 tonnes (t) of asbestos is exported annually, only 7,000-8,000t are used at home. In its efforts to diversify, the asbestos company is looking at the use of asbestos in fertilizers. See: Житикаринское градообразующее предприятие на волне ковидного кризиса показало рост по всем показателям [In the wake of the crisis, the Zhitikarinskoye city-forming enterprise showed growth in all respects].

Asbestos Eradication Program

May 10, 2021

On May 7, 2021, the Busan Environment Corporation in the South Korean City of Busan held a ceremony to herald the start of a project to eradicate asbestos roofing present in the municipality. The first action of the decontamination program was the removal of toxic roofing containing up to 15% asbestos from 12 buildings in Maji Village. Commenting on this initiative, Chairman of the Corporation Bae Kwang-hyo said: “Starting with Maji Village, the Corporation is planning to expand the asbestos roof improvement pilot village development project…. Removing and improving the old asbestos roofing is best for citizens to live in a safer and more comfortable environment.” See: 부산환경공단 "석면 슬레이트 없는 마을 만든다" [Busan Environment Corporation “Making a village free of asbestos roofing tiles”].

New Health Assessment Program

May 5, 2021

On April 30, 2021, the South Korea City of Busan announced that a program would be launched to provide health assessments for former pupils, staff and local people who had attended Yeonsin Elementary school or lived near the school from 1985 to 1998. The school, which was opened in 1984, was 10 meters away from an asbestos textile factory owned by the Jeil Chemical company. The program – which would provide free assessments and check-ups – would be conducted by staff from the Asbestos Environmental Health Center at the Busan National University Hospital in Yangsan. See: 석면공장 옆 부산 연신초 졸업생·가족 건강영향 조사 [Health impact survey for graduates and families in Yeonsin-cho, Busan, next to the asbestos plant].

Campaigning during Covid!

May 4, 2021

Grassroots groups in Indonesia, which remain committed to banning asbestos despite the COVID-19 pandemic, include Union Aid Abroad-APHEDA (Australia), the Local Initiative for Occupational Safety and Health Network (LION), and Indonesia’s Ban Asbestos Network. Work continues on consolidating the ban introduced in Bandung City in 2020 as well as on campaigning for additional regional and national regulations to protect workers, consumers and post-disaster communities from toxic exposures. LION will continue outreach work to support asbestos victims and raise awareness of the need for a ban to protect the population from avoidable deaths caused by asbestos exposure. See: The fight to ban asbestos continues as Indonesia responds to COVID-19.

Chungnam’s Deadly Asbestos Legacy

Apr 29, 2021

On April 28, 2021, the Yesan Hongseong Environmental Movement Association, the Korea Asbestos Removal Network and the Environmental Health Citizens’ Center held a community discussion in Hongseong, capital of Chungnam Province, to consider the achievements and limitations of the Asbestos Damage Relief Act, operational since 2011. Chungnam is an asbestos hotspot due to the presence of naturally occurring asbestos at multiple locations. According to speaker Yeyong Choi: “Only 5002 asbestos victims have been recognized and compensated for their illnesses in the last 10 years;” [of these] 1,900 (38%) had experienced asbestos exposures in Chungnam.” See: 석면 피해자가 충남에 가장 많은 이유는? [Why are the most asbestos victims in Chungnam?].

Support for Construction Workers Lawsuit

Apr 29, 2021

A rally was organized in Kasuya Town, Fukuoka Prefecture on April 25, 2021 by Japanese unions, to express solidarity with claimants in litigation brought by construction workers over occupational asbestos exposures. Speakers who addressed the gathering included politicians from the ruling and opposition parties as well as Toshimichi Ishimoto, General Manager of the Construction Workers Struggle Campaign, who was optimistic about the outcome in light of the recent Supreme Court verdict favoring asbestos-injured construction workers. See: 全ての被害者救済を建設アスベスト　九州訴訟で総決起集会 [Rally to Save All Victims of Construction Asbestos in Kyushu].

Asian Asbestos Shipbreaking Hazard

Apr 29, 2021

Three of the 12 pages of the text in an update issued on April 28, 2021 about the health emergency at South Asian shipbreaking beaching facilities dealt with the hazard posed by asbestos contamination on ships being scrapped in Bangladesh and India. The publication by the NGO Shipbreaking Platform noted the ubiquity of asbestos-containing material on board ships, the hazards posed by asbestos exposures to workers and local communities, the lack of capacity to safely handle this material at the shipbreaking yards, the incidence of asbestos-related diseases amongst shipbreaking workers and how weak national systems allow scrappers to exploit regulatory loopholes. See: South Asia Quarterly Update Number 25.

A Decade of the Asbestos Damage Relief Act

Apr 26, 2021

On April 28, 2021, the Korea Asbestos Removal Network will hold a community discussion in Hongseong, the capital city of South Korea’s Chungnam Province, to consider the achievements and limitations of the Asbestos Damage Relief Act, operational since 2011. Chungnam is an asbestos hotspot due to the presence of naturally occurring asbestos at multiple locations. Speakers at the meeting will include: Ye-Yong Choi, director of the Environmental Health Citizen Center, Akira Suzuki, executive chairman of the Korea Asbestos Removal Network, and activist and asbestos cancer sufferer Lee Seong-jin. See: 석면피해구제법 시행 10년 성과와 문제점은? [What are the achievements and problems in 10 years of the enforcement of the Asbestos Damage Relief Act].

Increase in Chrysotile Sales

Apr 21, 2021

Kazakhstan’s only asbestos producer Kostanay Minerals reported increased chrysotile fiber sales in the first quarter of 2021 from 50,100 tonnes in 2020 to 67,400 tonnes. Exports increased by 38.6% with shipments going to China, India, Sri Lanka, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Ukraine and Turkmenistan. Chrysotile asbestos-containing products are also sold in Kazakhstan. According to the company, production output in 2021 was predicted to reach 230,000 tonnes, 97% of which was for export. See: В первом квартале на треть вырос объем отгрузки хризотила и составил 67,4 тыс тонн [Demand for Kazakh chrysotile in the first quarter has grown significantly].

Asbestos in Schools

Apr 15, 2021

From April 16 until May 4, 2021, the Education Department of the South Korean Province of Gyeonggi-do will conduct an asbestos outreach project to educate teachers, school support staff, students, and parents about the nature of asbestos and the implications of asbestos material present in Gyeonggi-do’s schools. This training program has been operational since 2019. Asbestos eradication work, which began in Gyeonggi-do schools in 2016, has to date, remediated 1,614 schools. See: 발암물질 석면...경기도교육청 '석면 이해 교육'진행페이스북트위터공유하기추천댓글0원고료로 응원원고료로 응원 [Asbestos, a carcinogen...Proceed with Gyeonggi-do Office of Education ‘Asbestos Understanding Education’].

Appeal of Victim’s Verdict

Apr 14, 2021

On April 9, it was announced that a decision by the Osaka High Court – acknowledging the 2013 asbestos cancer (mesothelioma) death of Kazunori Shimatani had been caused by asbestos exposure during clean-up operations after the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake – was being appealed by the Local Government Employees Accident Compensation Fund. Commenting on this development, a family member said: “I am angry that the agency for the relief of the victims did not take the court's decision seriously…” See: 震災がれき回収でアスベスト被害基金が判決不服として控訴 [Asbestos damage fund appeals against judgment due to earthquake debris collection].

Free Asbestos Medical Care

Apr 12, 2021

A new healthcare program which will start treating patients at high risk of contracting diseases from toxic exposures in asbestos hotspots – near asbestos factories, mines, development sites, or areas with a high density of asbestos roofing – was announced this month by the Asbestos Environmental Health Center at Cheonan Hospital. As of November 8, 2021, members of the public from the South Korean areas of Anyang, Gyeonggi-do, Ulsan Ulju-gun, Cheongju-si, Chungbuk, Pyeongtaek-si, Gyeonggi-do and Nowon-gu (Seoul) will be eligible for free medical check-ups and support. See: 순천향대천안병원, 석면피해우려 지역 실태 조사 [Sooncheonhyang University Cheonan Hospital surveys the actual condition of areas concerned with asbestos damage].

Memorial to Asbestos & Other Victims

Apr 9, 2021

Since 2016, the Environmental Health Citizen Center in South Korea has marked Arbor Day with an activity to honor environmental victims with a tree-planting ceremony. The Center’s efforts on April 5, 2021 were reported on the front-page of two newspapers along with photographs of participants digging holes and planting saplings in Noeul Park, Seoul. The victims being remembered included people who had died of exposures to asbestos and radon as well as those who had been fatally injured through their use of humidifier disinfectants. See: 식목일, 환경피해자 ‘추모의 숲’ 나무심기 [Arbor Day, planting trees in the ‘memorial forest’ for environmental victims].

Asbestos Remediation and Compensation

Mar 31, 2021

Since 2013, Uijeongbu City, Gyeonggi Province has continued to progress efforts to protect the environmental rights of Korean citizens by adopting state-of-the-art management and demolition practices to minimize asbestos exposures. As a result of sustained and proactive efforts to identify asbestos victims, many injured people have received relief benefits and treatment for their injuries. Last year (2020), the asbestos illnesses of 13 people were recognized as a result of which 175 million won (US $155,000) compensation was paid. See: 의정부시, 안전한 석면관리로 쾌적한 생활환경 조성 [Uijeongbu City creates a pleasant living environment through safe asbestos management].

Legal Victory for Bereaved Family

Mar 30, 2021

On March 26, 2021, Judge Kaoru Izumi of the Kobe District Court recognized as occupationally-caused the 2013 death from mesothelioma – the signature asbestos cancer – of municipal worker Kazunori Shimatani, a resident of Akashi City, Hyogo Prefecture, who had been involved in the clean-up effort after the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji earthquake. As a result of this verdict, compensation will be paid to Shimatani’s family under the local government employee accident compensation fund. See: 死亡した市職員の労災認める　震災処理でアスベスト扱う [Recognition of occupational death of municipal employee caused by asbestos exposure during post-earthquake clean-up].

Asbestos Eradication Program

Mar 26, 2021

On March 24, 2021, the Council of Jeonnam Province, South Korea approved the asbestos safety management ordinance bill to facilitate the decontamination of daycare centers, child welfare facilities, and youth welfare facilities units. Funds allocated under this scheme will be made available to remove asbestos-containing roofing and building products and establish mandatory asbestos management programs to prevent children and young people from receiving toxic exposures. See: 전남도, 석면건축자재 사용 어린이집 등에 처리비용 지원한다 [Support for treatment costs in Jeonnam-do and daycare centers using asbestos construction materials.].

Supporting Injured Construction Workers

Mar 26, 2021

A symposium was held in Tokyo on March 23, 2021 to consider options for establishing a national compensation fund for construction workers injured by asbestos exposures, following a Supreme Court ruling which found the Government and building material manufacturers liable for having failed to take steps to protect workers from asbestos. The administrative scheme, funded by the government and manufacturers, would be intended to provide timely relief for the injured without recourse to protracted litigation. See: 建設アスベスト被害政治責任で救済早く補償基金創設へシンポ [Construction asbestos damage political responsibility. Symposium to establish compensation fund].

Government Apologies!

Mar 24, 2021

On March 21, 2021, representatives of the Japanese government – Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Norihisa Tamura and Deputy Minister Takaaki Kobayashi – apologized to construction workers in Kansai and Osaka for the government’s failures to control the asbestos hazard. As a result of the Government’s inertia, the workers were occupationally exposed to asbestos and contracted debilitating and deadly diseases. A recent ruling by the Supreme Court found the Government guilty of negligence and awarded compensation to thousands of construction workers for their asbestos injuries. See: 田村厚労相が原告に謝罪 [Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Tamura apologizes to plaintiffs].

Regional Asbestos Center

Mar 22, 2021

On March 16, 2021, an official ceremony marked the Ministry of Environment’s rededication of The Asbestos Environmental Health Center at Cheonan Hospital in South Chungcheong, South Korea. The Center has been operating for thirteen years during which time is has actively worked to improve the quality of life for people with asbestos-related lung diseases. Outreach work by the Center’s staff has examined 6,000 people at high risk of contracting asbestos-related diseases (ARDs) of whom 3,200 were found to have ARDs. See: 순천향대 천안병원, 환경부 지정 석면·권역환경보건센터 현판식 [Signing ceremony for Soonchunhyang University Cheonan Hospital, asbestos-regional environmental health center designated by the Ministry of Environment].

Regulatory Confusion over Asbestos Waste

Mar 18, 2021

In an attempt to increase protection from occupational asbestos exposures in Japan, a new law – the revised Air Pollution Control Act (Great Defense Act) – will come into effect on April 1, 2021. Critics say that far from strengthening the regulatory regime, the new law will lead to confusion and non-compliance with laws related to asbestos waste. Regulations concerning two types of asbestos waste – “waste asbestos, etc.” and “asbestos-containing waste” – vary in their specifications for management and disposal protocols. See: 大防法改正でアスベストの廃棄物規制「緩和」へ　国のずさん対応が現場の上乗せ安全対策つぶす可能性 [Asbestos waste regulation “relaxation” due to amendment of the Great Defense Law].

Beginning of Asbestos Phase-out

Mar 17, 2021

In 2018, an asbestos ban in Sri Lanka was overturned due to economic sanctions and political threats from Russia (see: Blackmail of Sri Lanka re Asbestos Ban). The Ministry of Environment has announced its intention to protect citizens by implementing a phase-out on asbestos use starting with a mandatory end to the use of asbestos-containing material on government buildings by the end of 2021. Asbestos material will also be banned for use in the construction of pre-school and school buildings. See: Ministry of Environment plan to set up another roofing tile industrial park associated with the huge clay deposit of Yan Oya reservoir.

Environmental Asbestos Exposure Research

Mar 16, 2021

The first two chapters of a special issue of the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health entitled Asbestos and Cancers: Exposure from Neighboring Factories and Mines, Contaminated Soil, and Slate Roofs have now been uploaded. The peer-reviewed papers evaluated excess lifetime cancer risk due to historic asbestos exposures in Korea and the consequences for residents of having lived near Korean asbestos mines. Nine other papers by authors in Korea and Taiwan will be uploaded in due course. See: Asbestos_CancersAsbestos and Cancers: Exposure from Neighboring Factories and Mines, Contaminated Soil, and Slate Roofs.

Asbestos in Schools

Mar 11, 2021

On March 9, 2021, results of asbestos air concentration tests in 14 classrooms in Seoul which are being remediated confirmed that work was being conducted safely as per specification of the Asbestos Safety Management Act of the Ministry of Environment. The Korean Government asbestos program has a 2027 deadline to remove asbestos from all schools in order to create a “safe educational environment.” To protect school users from possible exposures, all asbestos remediation work is carried out during school vacations. See: 전국 학교 '석면' 제거 공사 진행은 잘되가나? [Is the national school 'asbestos' removal work going well?].

Construction Workers Outreach Program

Mar 9, 2021

On March 6, 2021, there was a free phone consultation service for Japanese construction workers who had been occupationally exposed to asbestos. The service was offered by legal advisors in the aftermath of a recent Supreme Court decision denouncing the Japanese Government’s culpability for failing to act on the asbestos hazard in a timely manner. Commenting on this outreach initiative, lawyer Toshihiko Tsukuda explained that many construction workers who got sick did not understand that their condition might have been caused by workplace exposures to asbestos materials. See: 建設現場でのアスベスト健康被害無料の電話相談 [Free telephone consultation for asbestos health hazards at construction sites].

Investigation of Talc Testing Methods

Mar 8, 2021

On March 4, 2021, India’s National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) issued a summons to the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) and the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) over the lack of uniformity and standardization in testing for the presence of asbestos and formaldehyde in Johnson & Johnson’s talcum powder and baby shampoo respectively. The NCPCR, a statutory body under the Ministry of Women and Child Development, ordered the DCGI to appear before it on March 12 to explain why the CDSCO has not regulated the standards and uniformity in the testing methods used by accredited laboratories in India. See: “No uniform test for cancer-causing substances in J&J baby products” – drug regulator summoned.

Asbestos Medical Program

Mar 8, 2021

As of March, 2021, free medical check-ups for 650 individuals who had lived near the asbestos factory in Busan City will be available to ensure detection of abnormalities or diseases related to environmental asbestos exposures at a cost to the City of 136 million won ($US121,000). Its acting mayor Lee Byeong-jin says: “we plan to actively expand health impact investigations targeting local residents who are concerned about asbestos damage so that asbestos disease can be quickly discovered and treated.” Previously, the City had provided free medical screening for residents in other municipal asbestos hotspots. See: 산시, 석면피해 의심 주민 대상 ‘찾아가는 무료건강검진’ 실시 [Free health check-ups for residents suspected of asbestos exposures in Busan].

Protecting Minors from the Asbestos Hazard

Mar 5, 2021

On March 15, 2021, Vietnamese Circular 09/2020 / TT-BLDTBXH updating the Labor Code on young workers will come into effect. The new guidelines – which are designed to protect people under 18 from detrimental exposures that could affect their physical, mental and personality development – bans minors from employment in hazardous workplaces, including those at which asbestos is handled or processed. See: 6 nơi làm việc gây hại cho sự phát triển của người dưới 18 tuổi [6 workplaces that are detrimental to the development of people under the age of 18].

Construction Workers’ Victory

Feb 25, 2021

On February 22, 2021, Judge Takuya Fukayama of the Japanese Supreme Court dismissed most of the appeals by the government and building material manufacturers against a 2018 Osaka High Court plaintiffs’ verdict which awarded compensation to construction workers from the Kansai region who had contracted asbestos-related diseases as a result of failures by the defendants to safeguard occupational health. On February 25, the Court held hearings on claims by Tokyo construction workers; in March and April hearings will be held for Kyoto and Osaka workers, respectively. See: 建設アスベスト大阪訴訟国とメーカーの賠償責任確定最高裁 [Construction Asbestos Proceedings, National and Manufacturer Liability Confirmation in Supreme Court].

Progress: Ending Investment in Asbestos

Feb 24, 2021

The text of a Decree adopted earlier this month (February 2021) by the Government of Vietnam can be accessed at the online link noted below. While the bulk of the text related to improving the quality of materials and practices for the construction industry, key provisions will adversely impact on the functioning of the country’s asbestos sector. The Prime Minister stipulated plans to transition from asbestos-based to asbestos-free technology, and encouraged the limitation of investment in the expansion of the asbestos industry. In addition, the Decree lowered permissible levels of occupational asbestos exposures. See: Nghị định 09/2021/NĐ-CP về quản lý vật liệu xây dựng [Decree 09/2021 / ND-CP on management of building materials].

Decree Introduces Asbestos Restrictions

Feb 23, 2021

An article from a Vietnamese website detailed the release by the Government of Decree 09/2021/ND-CP on the management of building materials. Under provisions which regulated the use and quality of construction materials, the Decree introduced new mandatory provisions phasing-out the use of chrysotile (white) asbestos for roofing and tightening occupational asbestos exposure levels. In addition, new measures will be implemented that could affect the asbestos industrial sector, such as controls on the reuse and dumping of toxic waste. The Prime Minister stipulated that a roadmap to limit new investment and prevent expansion of asbestos roofing manufacturing be developed. See: Quy định về chất lượng vật liệu xây dựng [Regulations on quality of building materials].

Relief for Construction Workers

Feb 23, 2021

In the aftermath of several court decisions, including two by the Supreme Court, the Japanese Government has announced plans to set up a compensation scheme for construction workers with asbestos-related illnesses to enable them to obtain vital support without recourse to protracted legal proceedings. The details of the fund were discussed at a meeting on February 18th which was organized by officials from The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare. Claimants are lobbying for the establishment of a system funded by contributions from the government and building material manufacturers. See: 建設アスベスト　被害者救済へ　厚労省が補償制度の創設検討着手 [Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare to consider a compensation system for victims of construction asbestos].

Progress: Asbestos Update

Feb 22, 2021

Decree No. 09/2021 / ND-CP On building materials management was issued on February 9, 2021 by the Government of Vietnam. The Decree encouraged “the use of fibers to replace asbestos in roofing production” and – by an order of the Prime Minister – stipulated that “a roadmap to limit new investment or expand asbestos roofing manufacturing facilities” be developed. As the vast majority of asbestos fiber imported to Vietnam is used for the manufacture of asbestos roofing, this decree is a clear indication of the Government’s intention to end asbestos use in the near future. See: Tăng cường quản lý chất lượng vật liệu xây dựng [Strengthen quality management of building materials].

Asbestos Health Warnings

Feb 22, 2021

At a February 18 conference in the capital city of Laos to discuss the National Strategy for the Elimination of Asbestos-Related Diseases (2018-2030) and National Action Plan (2018-2022), Minister of Health Associate Prof. Dr Bounkong Syhavong, issued a warning regarding the public health danger posed by 16 asbestos factories currently operating in the country. Dr Bounkong said: “I think the best way to eliminate the risk of asbestos-related diseases is to stop the use of asbestos in these 16 factories. Other materials can be used instead, such as polyurethane foam, flour fillers, cellulose fibres, thermoset plastic flour and amorphous silica.” The objective of the meeting was to build capacity to implement a plan to eradicate asbestos-related diseases in Laos. See: Over 500 workers at risk of asbestos-related diseases.

No toxic talc in Kazakhstan?

Feb 22, 2021

A commentary by toxicologist Dr. Lavrenty Aizvert from a Ministry of Health Department of the Government of Kazakhstan – one of the world’s biggest producers of chsyrotile (white) asbestos – about the safety of cosmetics decried the hazard posed by the use of talc-based baby powder saying there was no “serious research.” Citing research from the Dzhetygarinsky asbestos mining and processing plant and the Karaganda Institute of Occupational Hygiene and Occupational Diseases, he said that as “not a single case of lung cancer or mesothelium [sic] has been registered there for 50 years,” the harm posed by asbestos in baby powder was “not clear.” See: Правда и мифы о косметике [Truth and myths about cosmetics].

Asbestos Propaganda Offensive

Feb 18, 2021

An informercial, masquerading as reportage, extolled the virtues of chrysotile (white) asbestos roofing – calling it a “vital component of Sri Lanka’s construction industry” – and denying any links between exposure to chrysotile and the causation of deadly diseases: “there is no evidence to conclusively establish a significant correlation between health deterioration, particularly cancer, and exposure to chrysotile among the chrysotile cement roofing sheet users in Sri Lanka.” Bemoaning the attacks on the industry, the author noted: “regardless of the importance of chrysotile roofing sheets, the industry has faced constant backlash and baseless allegations claiming that these sheets pose a threat to the health of our society.” See: Chrysotile cement roofing sheets; a misunderstood yet vital component of Sri Lanka’s construction industry.

Update: Asbestos Data in Hyogo Prefecture

Feb 15, 2021

According to the latest data released by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, in 2020 Hyogo Prefecture had the fifth largest cohort of people in the country whose diseases were recognized as having been contracted as a result of workplace exposures to asbestos. Per the Ministry’s new figures, 1,145 cases of asbestos-related cancer were recognized in Japan last year; the number for Hyogo Prefecture was 73. Nationwide, 992 workplaces were named at which the injured had been employed, of which 58 were in Hyogo Prefecture. See: アスベスト昨年度７３人労災認定 [Asbestos: last year 73 workers certified].

Justice for Asbestos Victims

Feb 15, 2021

In the wake of yet another Supreme Court ruling supporting claims by asbestos-injured construction workers, a Japanese editorial has endorsed calls for “the government and manufacturers [to] set up a fund to create a system to compensate victims” which would be proportionately funded by the companies according to their market share of asbestos-containing building materials. Although Japan’s Health minister Norihisa Tamura recently indicated that the government was willing to embark upon discussions regarding this issue, “no concrete actions have been taken.” See: Editorial: Japan must secure financial help for asbestos victims without delay.

Asbestos Death: Government Compensation

Feb 12, 2021

On February 10, 2021 Yoshiho Asano, the son of the late Miyoko Asano – a temporary worker in the 1960s at the Hashima building materials factory owned by the Nichias Corporation – has received a settlement of 14.3 million yen (US$136,600) from the Government of Japan as a result of a lawsuit begun in 2019 and progressed at the Gifu District Court. Miyoko Asana died from asbestosis, having been exposed to asbestos at the factory during the six months he worked there. See: 「ニチアス」羽島工場アスベスト　元従業員の遺族と国、和解成立 [“NICHIAS” Hashima Factory Asbestos Bereaved family and country of former employee, reconciliation concluded].

Minister’s Apology

Feb 8, 2021

On February 2, 2021, Japan’s Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Norihisa Tamura apologized at a press conference after a January 28, 2021 Supreme Court verdict supported asbestos injury claims against the Government brought by lawyers working for former construction workers from Kyoto Prefecture. Although the Minister said that he felt “responsible” and deeply apologized, he did not mention any future measures that might be implemented to support victims of asbestos-related diseases. See: 建設アスベスト訴訟. 国の敗訴確定2例目で田村厚労大臣謝罪だけ [Construction asbestos proceedings: Only an apology from Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Tamura as second government defeat confirmed].

Asbestos Remediation: Update

Feb 4, 2021

As of February 8, 2021, 705 applications for the removal of asbestos roofing have been approved under a program sponsored by Suncheon City, in the South Korean Province of South Jeolla. Subsidized work will be carried out at hundreds of properties at a total cost to the municipal budget of 2.3 billion won (US$2 million) in order to protect citizens from toxic exposures to asbestos roofing. The 2021 asbestos removal program – which is 43% bigger than the one in 2020 – will facilitate remediation of 435 houses, 235 non domestic properties such as warehouses and agricultural buildings, and 35 properties housing vulnerable people. See: 순천시, 1급 발암물질 ‘석면 슬레이트’ 철거에 박차 [Suncheon City accelerates the demolition of ‘Asbestos Slate,’ a first-class carcinogen].

Sale of Illegal Consumer Goods

Feb 3, 2021

The discovery of asbestos in bath mats and other household goods widely distributed in Japan was, according to a new article, just the tip of the iceberg. Consumers in Japan are concerned about the possibility of buying toxic products despite the fact that the country has prohibited all uses of asbestos. Over the last few years, Cainz – a popular hardware chain of stores – and furniture maker Nitori have both recalled products believed to have contained asbestos. Asbestos-contaminated goods were also distributed via dollar stores and other outlets around Japan. See: Asbestos-laced products continue to haunt consumers in Japan.

Supreme Court Upholds Workers’ Verdict

Feb 1, 2021

On January 28, 2021, Japan’s Supreme Court upheld a ruling by the Osaka High Court which had found the government and manufacturers of construction materials responsible for asbestos-related diseases contracted by former construction workers from the western prefecture of Kyoto. This is the first time that the Supreme Court has recognized the responsibility of construction materials manufacturers for asbestos-related injuries sustained by a a large group claimants. The defendants were ordered to pay compensation of 280 million yen (~US$ 2.7m) to 24 former workers. This ruling is widely regarded as a precedent which will benefit many injured workers. See: Court Holds Japan Govt, Firms Responsible for Asbestos Problems

Asbestos Monitoring and Safety

Feb 1, 2021

To protect inhabitants of Seoul from toxic exposures to asbestos, the Seoul Institute for Health and Environment – a specialized asbestos analysis organization certified by the Ministry of Environment and Ministry of Employment and Labor – is tightening up on inspections at sites, such as underground stations, regional children's centers, and private academies, where there is a high risk of asbestos exposures in 2021. Results of tests to measure airborne asbestos fiber levels are uploaded to websites run by local as well as municipal authorities. See: 서울시, 지하역사와 학원 등 공기 중 석면 조사 확대 [Expanded investigation of asbestos in air such as that found Seoul, underground stations and academies].

Toxic Talc

Jan 26, 2021

As a result of lobbying by civil society organizations in Nepal concerned about the marketing in Nepal of asbestos-contaminated baby powder withdrawn from North American markets, Nepal’s Department of Commerce, Supply and Consumer Protection has collected samples of Johnson & Johnson’s talc-based baby powder made in the USA, Canada and India and Himalayan baby powder and submitted them for testing. If the results show the J&J product to be contaminated, the Government will ban its sale and use in Nepal. The results are expected in February, 2021. See: Cancer-Causing Baby Powders Continue Circulating in The Nepali Market.

Shipbreaking Exposé

Jan 18, 2021

Two articles published in December 2020 highlighted the deadly consequences of unregulated and uncontrolled conditions at Bangladesh shipbreaking yards where exposures to toxic substances, including asbestos, on ships sent for scrapping have injured generations of workers. The vessels, many of which are registered under flags of convenience and owned by off-shore companies, flout laws and provide neither warnings nor protection to workers (see: Toxic ships sail in on false papers), with Ministerial officials admitting the complete lack of government supervision and capacity to test ships for the presence of toxic substances.
See: How offshore companies import deadly asbestos into Bangladesh.

Asbestos Removal Project

Jan 14, 2021

A scheme to provide financial support for homeowners to remove asbestos roofing from 225 properties has been announced by authorities in Yeonggwang-gun, a county in South Korea’s South Jeolla Province. The 2021 allocation for the project made by the county was 90 million won (US$82,000); all applications must be made to the Urban Environment Division between January 12 and February 26, 2021. Priority will be given to applications for remediation work on vacant and dilapidated houses. See: 영광군, 석면 슬레이트지붕 철거 지원사업 추진 [ Yeonggwang-gun, asbestos roof demolition support project].

National Award for Asbestos Mine?!

Jan 12, 2021

In what seems to be a rather bizarre pronouncement, on December 30, 2020 Chinese authorities recognized the Mangya chrysotile (white) asbestos mine as the first national industrial heritage project in Qinghai Province, in the northwest of China. The mine, which was founded in the 1950s, is operated by the country’s largest asbestos mining and processing enterprise and supplies asbestos fiber to 40% of the domestic asbestos market. In the article about this award, there is no mention of the occupational or environmental hazard posed by the commercial exploitation of asbestos. See: 青海茫崖石棉矿成青海首个国家级工业遗产项目 [Qinghai Mangya asbestos mine became the first national industrial heritage project in Qinghai].

Asbestos Recall of Toxic Items

Jan 11, 2021

Over three million items sold by the Japanese Nitori company have been recalled from sale due to asbestos contamination of between 0.2 and 1.5%. Amongst the toxic products sold by Nitori between December 4, 2016 and December 16, 2020 were bath mats, containing up to 15 times the allowable concentration of asbestos, and coasters manufactured by the Japanese company Horiki Kosakusho. On December 28, 2020 a spokesperson for the Chemical Substances Control Division of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, confirmed that asbestos had been detected in 18 types of Nitori products. See: ＜速報＞ニトリ販売のバスマットから基準15倍のアスベスト検出 [Breaking news: Asbestos detection of 15 times the standard from bath mats sold by Nitori].

Asbestos Remediation of Schools

Jan 4, 2021

The Department of Education of the South Korean Province of Gyeongbuk has set a 2027 deadline for the removal of asbestos from all its schools; the annual budget allocated for this work is 18 billion won/year (~US$16.6m/yr). Under this program, asbestos remediation at 91 schools was accomplished in 2020, with work due to be undertaken in 2021 at 79 schools. Progress is monitored by a collation of groups including school officials, parents, experts and representatives of civil society groups. See: 경북교육청, 2027년까지 학교 건축물 석면 제거...매년 180억 이상 투자 [Gyeongbuk Office of Education to remove asbestos from school buildings by 2027, investing more than 18 billion won annually].

Government Apology!

Dec 30, 2020

On December 23, 2020, Japan’s Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare Norihisa Tamura met with plaintiffs in a landmark Supreme Court class action mounted by asbestos-injured construction workers to apologize to them on behalf of the Japanese Government. The Minister said: “We take the judgment seriously and will take appropriate measures.” He promised to facilitate a forum to consider how best to support victims who had been injured as a result of the Government’s failures; injured workers had called for a national fund so that victims would not have to endure protracted legal battles to obtain compensation. See: アスベスト裁判原告らに謝罪協議の場設ける考え示す厚労相 [Asbestos Trial, Apology to plaintiffs by Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare].

Asbestos Product Recall

Dec 29, 2020

On December 22, 2020, it was announced that Nitori, a Japanese home furnishing chain of stores, had recalled over 2 million items which could contain asbestos fibers. The nine affected products, which had been made in China, were bath mats and coasters. Asbestos use has been banned in Japan for a number of years and the sale of these products was illegal. It is not yet clear if the contamination was caused by intentional inclusion of fibers in the products. Customers who purchased the products were advised to return them to a Nitori store for a full refund, with or without the receipt. See: Japanese home furnishing chain issues massive recall for asbestos-heavy bath mats and coasters.

Asbestos Removal in Schools

Dec 29, 2020

On December 24, 2020, the Ulsan City Office of Education in Ulsan, South Korea announced that during the winter vacation replacement of asbestos ceilings would be undertaken in 11 schools. The schools where remediation work was scheduled included 3 elementary, 6 middle and 2 high schools. Briefing sessions for parents, students, and faculty had been held before the work was begun during which the state-of-the-art techniques which would be used were explained. See: 울산시교육청, 코로나19에도 차질없이 학교 석면천장 교체 [Ulsan City Office of Education replaces school's asbestos ceiling without disruption even with Covid-19].

Union Action on Asbestos

Dec 21, 2020

A labor federation from the Philippines – the Associated Labor Unions-Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (ALU-TUCP) – publicly questioned whether a new $123 million project announced by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in the capital will, as per ADB guidelines, be constructed free from asbestos-containing material. In a press release issued last week, Gerard Seno, National Executive Vice President of the ALU-TUCP, reminded the ADB of its commitment to zero asbestos and asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) “in all its funded projects beginning with this EDSA Greenways Project.” See: ADB reminded on asbestos-free vow.

Government Apology for Asbestos Crimes

Dec 21, 2020

Norihisa Tamura, Japan’s Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare, held a press conference after a Cabinet meeting on December 18th during which a recent decision by the Supreme Court was discussed. The Court had issued a ruling on behalf of asbestos-exposed construction workers which recognized the responsibility of the Government for neglecting to prevent toxic exposures at work. The Minister apologized, saying: “I feel responsible and deeply apologize to the plaintiffs.” This week he will meet representatives of the claimants to apologize to them in person. See: 建設石綿訴訟で厚労相謝罪国責任の司法判断確定 [Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare apologizes for construction asbestos proceedings].

Toxic Ships, Deadly Practices

Dec 21, 2020

The health consequences of working in Bangladesh’s ship-breaking yards scrapping foreign ships full of contaminants like asbestos are discussed in an article which featured the case of a 45-year-old worker Mazidul Haque who had been diagnosed with asbestosis after working at the shipbreaking yards in Chattogram for most of his adult life. Having never received training to work at the yards, he had no knowledge of the risks he was taking. He had never been provided with equipment or clothing to prevent the inhalation of asbestos fibers and had never been warned about the hazard. A typical merchant vessel could contain around 10 tonnes of asbestos-containing material. See: Toxic ships sail in on false papers.

Supreme Court Verdict!

Dec 18, 2020

On December 14, 2020, Japan’s Supreme Court issued a plaintiffs’ verdict – which dismissed an appeal brought by the Government; the Court ordered the Japanese Government to pay compensation of US$22 million to 350 asbestos-injured construction workers – or surviving family members – from Tokyo, Saitama and elsewhere, as per a 2018 order by the Tokyo High Court. The ruling, which acknowledged the Government’s responsibility for the illnesses of both employed and self-employed workers, was the first to hold the Government responsible for asbestos injuries to construction workers. The Court found that the Government had not acted in a timely manner to prevent toxic asbestos exposures. See: Court finalizes state payment to asbestos victims.

No Asbestos in Schools

Dec 18, 2020

The Seoul Institute of Health and Environment (SIHE) and the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education have agreed to create a safe school environment free from asbestos contamination. During school vacations, SIHE operatives will conduct surveys to measure the concentration of asbestos in the indoor air of kindergartens, elementary, middle, and high schools where asbestos demolition and removal work had been completed to verify that the schools were fit for use. State-of-the-art equipment will be used for the analysis and testing, including transmission and scanning electron microscopes. See: 서울시보건환경연구원-시교육청 협력해 학교 석면 안전관리 강화 [Strengthening safety management of school asbestos in cooperation with SIHE and City Office of Education].

Lawsuit for Construction Workers

Dec 15, 2020

On December 3, 2020, the first arguments were held in the Sendai District Court in a legal action on behalf of ten former workers or their bereaved family members regarding asbestos-related deaths caused by occupational exposures at construction sites in Japan. The claimants are seeking total damages of 269.5 million yen ($US 2.6m) from the Japanese government and 12 manufacturers of building materials. See: 国、建材メーカー争う姿勢　東北アスベスト訴訟初弁論 [National government and building material manufacturers contest asbestos claims, first arguments].

Asbestos in Schools

Dec 14, 2020

Despite efforts to remediate schools in the South Korean city of Anyang, in Gyeonggi Province, asbestos contamination remains in the majority of elementary, middle and high schools. Removal work at the city’s schools has been ongoing since 2017 with funding from the Provincial Office of Education; budgets for this program were as follows: (~US$3.7 million) 4 billion won (bw) in 2017, 4.1 bw in 2018, 3 bw in 2019 and 1.2 bw in 2020. The deadline set by the Provincial Office of Education for the completion of the asbestos decontamination program is 2027. See: 안양지역 각급 학교 석면제거율 38%…“조속 처리”vs“점진 처리” [38% of asbestos removed at schools in Anyang area... “Rapid processing” vs. “Progressive processing”].

Supporting the Asbestos-Exposed

Dec 7, 2020

An asbestos outreach phone clinic was held in the Japanese city of Nagoya on December 5, 2020 for people who had worked at asbestos factories or in the construction industry and members of their families. On hand to answer questions were legal and medical professionals. The Japanese Government was relatively slow in restricting and banning the use of asbestos compared to other industrialized countries, having prohibited the use of amosite (brown) and crocidolite (blue) asbestos as recently as 1995 and achieving a total ban on all asbestos by 2012. See: アスベスト被害の無料電話相談会　５日、東海弁護団 [Free telephone counseling for asbestos damage, December 5, 2020].

Toxic Give-Aways by Local Council

Nov 30, 2020

On November 27, 2020, Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare announced that gifts distributed by Kaizuka City, Osaka Prefecture to taxpayers was contaminated with asbestos. The bath mats and coasters were made from diatomaceous earth – a naturally occurring, soft, siliceous sedimentary rock that is crumbled into a fine white to off-white powder. The products were marketed under the brand name “Caraco” and were made by the Horiki Kosakusho company in Kaizuka City; they were found to contain up to 0.61% asbestos. See: 返礼品にアスベスト含有、製造元が回収　大阪・貝塚市ふるさと納税 [Asbestos containing goods, distributed by Kaizuka City in return for local tax payment to be collected by the manufacturer].

Raising Asbestos Awareness

Nov 24, 2020

Efforts continue in Vietnam to address low levels of asbestos awareness via outreach projects and information sessions such as one held on November 20 in Bac Kan province, in the northeast of the country. The event was organized by the Institute of Natural Resources, Environment and Community Development in coordination with the Committee for Ethnic Minorities of Bac Kan province; it was entitled: Include Chrysotile [Asbestos] on the List of Hazardous Waste Materials and Require Warning Labels on Asbestos-containing Products. Having delineated the ubiquity and toxicity of asbestos-containing material, speakers proposed that delegates be proactive in preventing toxic exposures and not use or reuse any asbestos material. See: Đưa Amiăng trắng vào danh sách chất độc hại [Put chrysotile on the list of toxic substances].

Asbestos and Urban Development

Nov 24, 2020

The need to safely dispose of asbestos waste produced during development work was highlighted last week in a press release by the workers' group Associated Labor Unions-Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (ALU-TUCP) which urged the SM Development Corporation to take care in its handling of asbestos stripped from a multi-story iconic structure in Manila called the Philamlife building. The ALU-TUCP document was the basis of an article published on November 23, 2020. The toxic Philamlife asbestos waste – containing a large amount of ceiling boards and wall insulation – was produced during months of renovation work and is currently stored in the building. See: Dispose Philamlife cancerous asbestos now!

Asbestos at Home!

Nov 13, 2020

An article documenting the prevalence of asbestos in everyday items highlighted the hazard posed to people in Vietnam of domestic exposures to products as diverse as roofing sheets, water pipes, cement, flooring, insulation, water tanks and thermos flasks. The author reviewed findings by the World Health Organization regarding the carcinogenicity of asbestos and reiterated the advice that “the most effective way to prevent these diseases is to stop using all forms of asbestos to prevent exposure.” See: Chất độc mà WHO xếp đầu danh sách những chất gây ung thư nội tạng, hóa ra luôn hiện diện ở những vật dụng quen thuộc trong ngôi nhà bạn [The poison that WHO ranks at the top of the list of carcinogens turns out to be always present in familiar objects in your home].

Asbestos in Schools Remediation: Too Slow

Nov 13, 2020

South Korean politician Lee Kwang-il representing Yeosu City has criticized the Jeonnam Provincial Office of Education for the slow pace with which it has progressed the decontamination of schools in Yeosu City. To date, only 36% of the affected buildings have been remediated and, he said, at this rate it will be impossible to comply with the 2027 deadline set for the completion of the schools’ asbestos removal program by the Ministry of Education. See: 이광일 전남도의원, 학교 석면제거 부진 해소방안 마련 촉구 [Jeonnam Provincial Clinic urges Lee Kwang-il to come up with measures to resolve the sluggish removal of asbestos in schools].

Mobilization on Asbestos Hazard

Nov 10, 2020

Work to protect people in Vietnam from the asbestos hazard continued this month with a workshop on November 6 in Lang Son city entitled: Include Chrysotile (Asbestos) on the List of Hazardous Waste Materials and Require Warning Labels on Asbestos-containing Products. The event was organized by the Institute of Natural Resources, Environment and Community Development in collaboration with the Committee for Ethnic Minorities of Lang Son province. Vietnam currently imports 60,000 tonnes of asbestos per year; the vast majority of asbestos roofing sheets made in Vietnam are used in mountainous areas inhabited by ethnic minorities. See: Vận động đưa Amiăng trắng vào danh sách chất thải độc hại [Advocacy to put chrysotile on the list of hazardous waste].

Asbestos Mortality: Documentation

Nov 10, 2020

A group representing Japanese patients with asbestos-related diseases has welcomed moves by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW) to mandate the long-term retention of death certificates for asbestos-caused deaths; in Tokyo, Yokohama, Chiba, Mito, Maebashi, Nagano, Kanazawa, Hiroshima and Tokushima and elsewhere these documents are routinely destroyed five years after the deaths occurred. Acting upon the MHLW’s request, the Ministry of Justice required 50 Legal Affairs Bureaus to retain these death certificates for 27 years. See: アスベスト労災の死亡診断書、法務省が27年間保存要請　患者団体「大きな進展」 [Death certificate for asbestos work accidents, Ministry of Justice requests preservation for 27 years Patient group “Major progress”].

Asbestos Hot Potato

Nov 10, 2020

The legacy of an abandoned village in Busan, South Korea has been an environmental nightmare for local people. Residents who deserted the locale left behind toxic waste including asbestos-cement building material which continues to litter the site, according to a recent newspaper exposé which identified asbestos fibers in the rubble. Municipal buildings such as a daycare facility, social welfare center, high school and residential housing are within close proximity of the site. Authorities contacted by the reporter refused to accept responsibility for the situation. See: [취재후] 어린이집 옆 야산의 비밀…10년째 발암물질 ‘석면’ 방치 [After coverage. The secret of the hillside next to the daycare center… Carcinogenic substance, asbestos neglected for 10 years].

National Asbestos Death Toll

Nov 4, 2020

A Japanese language article highlighted findings published by the Global Burden of Disease report which suggested that asbestos mortality in Japan (20,267), was the 3rd highest in the world, after the US (40,000) and China (26,000) in 2019. According to campaigner Sugio Furuya: “the actual scope of asbestos harm in Japan is unknown. This estimate reiterates that the current compensation and relief cannot save the victims.” Japan used asbestos long after other industrialized countries had banned it; prohibition of use started in 1995 with bans on amosite and crocidolite and was completed with a ban on all types in 2012. See: 日本の19年石綿関連死者数、推計2万人超　研究機関調査 [Japan's 19-year asbestos-related deaths, estimated to exceed 20,000 in Research institute survey].

Provincial Asbestos Action Plan

Nov 3, 2020

A substantial allocation of funding for the removal of asbestos from schools throughout the Korea Province of Gyeonggi has been included in the 2021 budget of the Gyeonggi Province Office of Education which was published on October 28, 2020. Out of a total of 131.4 billion won (~US$116m), 24.9 billion won (~US$22m) was ring-fenced for asbestos removal and remediation of 40 Gyeonggi school buildings and 2,505 classrooms in 2021. See: "무상교복·석면제거 등"… 경기도·도교육청·시군, 내년 3천500억 투입한다 [“Free school uniform, asbestos removal, etc.”... Gyeonggi-do, Provincial Office of Education, Si-Gun, will invest 350 billion won next year].

Toxic Talc in Taiwan

Oct 30, 2020

Johnson and Johnson’s baby powder – called “Jiaosheng Baby Powder” in Taiwan – is the subject of a feature length Chinese article. The author explained that Jiaosheng Baby Powder was still being sold in Taiwan despite the fact that it had been withdrawn from North American markets; examining the reasons for the company’s change in marketing policy, the author postulated that the 20,000 lawsuits over cancers caused by exposures to asbestos contained in the powder could have been the reason. See: 嬌生百年經典危機（上）：訴訟戰20年...嬰兒爽身粉的致癌風暴 [Jiaosheng's 100-year classic crisis (part 1): 20 years of litigation... the carcinogenic storm of baby powder].

Asbestos in Castle

Oct 28, 2020

On October 27, 2020 it was announced that sprayed asbestos material had been discovered in September on the indoor staircase of Okayama Castle, a 16th century structure in Okayama City on the west of Honshū Island. The city-owned building, which is now a museum, will remain open for the time being as no airborne fibers had been detected. Remediation work is scheduled to be undertaken in 2021, during which time the asbestos-containing paint identified in the castle’s tower will be removed. See: 岡山城にアスベスト　来年度の改修工事で撤去へ [Asbestos in Okayama Castle to be removed in next year's renovation work].

Asbestos Appeal at Supreme Court

Oct 26, 2020

On the afternoon of October 22, 2020, the first hearing took place before Judge Takuya Fukayama at the Japanese Supreme Court in an appeal by 80 asbestos-injured construction workers and surviving family members from Kanagawa Prefecture. The plaintiffs, who are seeking damages from the Japanese government and manufacturers of building materials, argued that from at least 1975 there was knowledge of the harmful effects of asbestos exposures and measures should have been implemented to protect workers. See: 建設アスベスト訴訟、最高裁で弁論　同種上告審で初 [Construction asbestos proceedings, argument at the Supreme Court for the first time in a similar appeal!].

Asbestos and Cancer in China

Oct 20, 2020

According to the Beijing Municipal Health Commission (the Commission) lung cancer “is one of the most threatening malignant tumors to the health and life of the population.” In a new upload entitled "Scientific Fight against Cancer: Early Understanding and Early Prevention of Lung Cancer" on its website, the Commission lists occupational exposures to asbestos as a significant factor in increasing the incidence of lung cancer, and pleural and peritoneal mesothelioma, explaining that there can be a latency of 20+ years between exposures and the manifestation of disease. See: 科学抗癌：早了解早预防肺癌 [Scientific Fight against Cancer: Early Understanding and Early Prevention of Lung Cancer].

Asbestos Propaganda

Oct 19, 2020

The benevolence of Kostanay Minerals JSC – one of the world’s largest producers of chrysotile asbestos fiber – is the focus of a piece by Evgeniya Ermakova, referenced below. The company’s mine and milling operations are centered in and around the town of Zhitikar in the Kostanay region of Kazakhstan. Of the 220,000+ tons of asbestos fiber mined every year in Kazakhstan, 95% is exported to India, Uzbekistan, China, Ukraine and other countries. The company has close ties to the government. See: Бизнес – это прежде всего люди [Business is primarily about people]. (P.S. In 2016, it was revealed that operatives employed by Kazakh asbestos interests had spied on ban asbestos campaigners.)

Raising Asbestos Awareness

Oct 19, 2020

An article uploaded to a Chinese language website on October 15, 2020 listed asbestos as the first of eight known causes of cancer and warned people to avoid exposure to products containing it. If occupational exposures cannot be avoided, then individuals should take precautionary measures such as changing work clothes before returning home. China is one of the world’s largest asbestos-producing and consuming countries. See: 原创随处可见这种物质，却是可怕的1类致癌物！为了健康，请远离这8种 [This kind of substance can be seen everywhere, but it is a terrible Class 1 carcinogen! For health reasons, please stay away from these 8].

Japan’s Mesothelioma Epidemic

Oct 16, 2020

According to Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare there have been 26,608 deaths since 1995 from the signature asbestos cancer, mesothelioma and the number of deaths “is expected to increase in the future,” due to the country’s widespread and heavy use of asbestos throughout the 20th century. A comparison between asbestos consumption data, asbestos regulations and incidences of disease from Japan and the UK supported the prediction that mesothelioma mortality in Japan will continue to increase for some years to come. See: アスベストの脅威続く　中皮腫死すでに2万6608人　被害予測は10万人超 [Asbestos threat continues, mesothelioma deaths already 26,608, damage forecast exceeds 100,000 people].

Another Mesothelioma Death in Japan

Oct 14, 2020

The mesothelioma death was reported on October 12, 2020 of 51-year old Eri Matsui, a Japanese mother of two who was exposed as a child to asbestos liberated by a water pipe factory near her home in Saitama City. Ms. Matsui endured a protracted battle for recognition and compensation against those she considered responsible for her disease and became a leading campaigner in the fight to raise awareness of the asbestos hazard. A documentary film entitled “Playing with the glowing sand as a child” about Japan’s toxic asbestos legacy in which she had a feature role was released a mere eight days before she died. See: アスベスト被害者松井絵里さん逝去 [Asbestos victim Eri Matsui passes away].

Asbestos Rally in Tokyo

Oct 12, 2020

On October 8, 2020 campaigners supporting the legal rights of construction workers to be compensated for asbestos-related diseases held an outdoor rally at the Hibiya Open Air Concert Hall in Tokyo, to highlight their demand in anticipation of an expected ruling by the Supreme Court. The demonstrators were calling for relief for all the victims and the establishment of a compensation fund. Mitsuo Yoshida, Chair of the trade union Zenken Soren, told the meeting that: “The responsibility of the government and building material manufacturers is clear. We should try to resolve them [these cases] during the lifetime of the plaintiffs.” See: 建設石綿訴訟全面解決を [Complete resolution of construction asbestos proceedings].

Mesothelioma in Hong Kong

Oct 9, 2020

A lengthy and informative Chinese feature article marked International Mesothelioma Day with an interview with 72-year old Huang Bo, who was employed at Hong Kong’s Taikoo Dockyard for 50 years. In 2019, Mr. Bo was diagnosed with the asbestos-related cancer, mesothelioma. At no time was he or his colleagues informed about the nature of the toxic product they worked with and they were never provided with protective equipment or clothing. There were 232 cases of mesothelioma diagnosed in Hong Kong between 2006 and 2015. The import, transshipment, supply and use of all types of asbestos and asbestos-containing materials are now banned in Hong Kong. See: 國際間皮瘤關注日 [International Mesothelioma Awareness Day].

Asbestos in Schools

Oct 8, 2020

Pursuant to a national project to make schools in Korea fit for purpose, asbestos contamination in half the country’s 10,000 elementary, middle and high schools has been remediated. According to Representative Kim Byung-wook of the National Assembly's Board of Education: "It is important to provide high-quality education to children, but it is also very important to create an environment in which children can live in a safe and comfortable environment. We need to secure it,” he said. See: 전국 초중고 석면 제거율 절반 [Half of asbestos removal in elementary, middle and high schools achieved nationwide].

Addressing Korea’s Asbestos Legacy

Oct 7, 2020

On September 28, 2020, it was announced that a business agreement had been signed by the Incheon Metropolitan City Corporation and the Asbestos Damage Prevention Center to reduce toxic asbestos exposures and raise asbestos awareness in Incheon via the introduction of new management supervision tools to prevent asbestos damage, training for operatives working in the field of asbestos and collaboration on projects to prevent asbestos damage. See: 인천도시공사, 석면피해예방 업무협약(MOU) 체결 [Incheon City Corporation, asbestos damage prevention business agreement (MOU) signed].

Mesothelioma Mortality: New Data

Oct 5, 2020

Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare expects the annual number of mesothelioma deaths to increase although figures just released showed a slight decline. There were 1,466 mesothelioma deaths in 2019 compared to 1,512 in 2018, with the highest incidence of mortality in Osaka (148), Tokyo (123) and Hyogo (107). Since 1995, there has been a total of 26,608 mesothelioma deaths in Japan. The Japanese government recognizes that most people who contract mesothelioma were exposed to asbestos. See: 昨年の中皮腫死1466人　ワースト3は大阪・東京・兵庫　推定原因はほぼアスベスト [Mesothelioma deaths in 2019 were 1466; worst affected areas were: Osaka, Tokyo, Hyogo. Probable cause of these deaths was almost certainly exposure to asbestos].

Poor Remediation Efforts

Oct 2, 2020

In a recent speech made to the National Assembly of South Korea, Representative Ja Lim, from the North Gyeongsang constituency, condemned Korea’s failure to expeditiously deal with the health hazards posed by the continuing presence of asbestos-containing products within the national infrastructure. Rep. Lim said: “The victims and their families are still suffering a lot from asbestos… It is urgent to improve the slow speed of [asbestos] remediation through expansion of the capacity to remove goods containing asbestos, a first-class carcinogen.” See: 임이자 의원, 석면 슬레이트 건축물 5년간 8.8% 처리불과 [Rep. Lim Isa, 8.8% of asbestos slate buildings remediated].

Schools’ Asbestos Eradication Program

Oct 1, 2020

Work was carried out – commissioned by the Seoul Metropolitan Government and the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education – during the Summer holidays of 2020 to remediate asbestos at 18 schools in the Korean capital. Follow-up investigations and testing revealed that the indoor air at 112 locations in the schools was within acceptable standards. This program was the first of its kind in Korea. See: 서울시내 석면 해체·제거 공사 학교 모두 석면으로부터 안전 [Asbestos demolition and removal construction schools in Seoul are all safe from asbestos].

Asbestos Crackdown

Sep 28, 2020

Investigators in Korea’s Gyeonggi Province who inspected 359 asbestos demolition sites between August 10 and 28, 2020 identified 27 incidents where amounts varying from 40 to 2,000 kilograms of asbestos-containing waste had been illegally collected, transported or dumped according to an announcement made on September 24, 2020 by the Gyeonggi Special Judicial Police Corps. Cases are being brought against all those companies responsible. See: 발암물질 폐석면 불법 처리 업체들 무더기 적발 [Illegal asbestos fly tipping company found].

NGOs’ Asbestos Alert

Sep 25, 2020

At a press conference in Seoul, Korea on September 21, 2020, spokepersons for the non-governmental organizations the Gwangju Environmental Movement Association and the Environmental Health Citizens’ Center announced that as a result of a 3-month investigation they could confirm the presence of tremolite asbestos fibers in cement and mortar products being sold in Korea. The NGOs urged the government to act not only on banning sales of these deadly products but also on identifying and protecting at-risk workers. See: 환경단체 “시판중인 백시멘트·황토모르타르에서 석면 검출” [Environmental organization “Detection of asbestos in commercially available white cement and loose mortar”].

Appeal by Asbestos Defendants

Sep 24, 2020

A decision handed down by the Tokyo District Court on September 4, 2020, against the Japanese Government and asbestos manufacturers, awarding compensation of 1.3 bn yen (US$12.2m) to 121 former workers who had contracted asbestos-related diseases has been appealed by three companies including the Nichias Corporation, a defendant in many Japanese asbestos lawsuits. In the Tokyo verdict, Judge Maezawa had been categorical about the guilt of the defendants: “Since 1975 at the latest, when dealing with asbestos, it has been obligatory to use warning signs and dust masks.” See: ニチアスら２社が控訴　石綿被害訴訟、東京 [Nichias and two other companies appeal asbestos damage lawsuit, Tokyo].

Building Diagnostic Capacity

Sep 22, 2020

On September 19, 2020, the Korean Environmental Industry and Technology Institute in collaboration with the Korean Radiological Society conducted an online training workshop for radiologists on the subject of: Reading Asbestos Disease Imaging. The initiative was part of national efforts to increase capacity and develop expertise so that earlier diagnoses of asbestos-related diseases are made. Successful participants will be eligible to work for the “Computed Tomography Photo Reading Advisory Group” that supports the Asbestos Damage Judgment Committee. See: 환경산업기술원, 석면질병 영상판독 교육 [Environmental Industry and Technology Institute, asbestos disease image reading education].

Victim’s Verdict in Fukuoka

Sep 21, 2020

On September 16, 2020, the Presiding Judge Atsushi Tokuchi of the Fukuoka District Court issued a ruling ordering the Kitakyushu Municipal Government and a building maintenance firm to pay compensation of ~26 million yen (US$246,000) to the family of a worker who died in 2013 aged 78 from asbestos-related lung cancer as a result of toxic workplace exposures at the Kitakyushu City General Gymnasium, a facility that was constructed using asbestos materials. This verdict is believed to be the first of its kind to recognize a municipal government's responsibility for asbestos management. See: Fukuoka court holds local gov't responsible for worker's asbestos exposure in Japan first.

Ending Asbestos Use in Asia

Sep 18, 2020

Campaigners are actively seeking reassurances from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) that it will honor promises made in 2019 to ban the use of asbestos in all of the projects it funds. The 2020 Annual Meeting of the ADB is taking place virtually this week and constitutes an opportunity for action to be taken to put this promise into policy say officials from Australia’s Union Aid Abroad (APHEDA). Current ADB Policy prohibits the use of raw asbestos in projects but allows the use of asbestos bonded cement sheets which are the most common asbestos-containing product used in Asia. See: Statement on Asian Development Bank Annual Meeting: ADB Must Clarify Asbestos Policy Now!

Court Order Behind State Action?

Sep 17, 2020

Contamination at sites where tonnes of asbestos-contaminated mining waste remain constitute a potent threat to the health of people in 14 villages in the East Indian State of Jharkhand. When asbestos mining ceased in 1983, the sites were abandoned. Following surveying by the non-governmental organization Environics Trust, a lawsuit was brought in 2012 at the National Green Tribunal (NGT), on behalf of people who had contracted asbestos-related diseases. In January 2020, the NGT ordered the state government to protect the villagers; in August, Jharkhand State submitted plans for rehabilitation of the mines and community health surveillance. See: In Jharkhand’s Asbestos Clean-up, Victim Compensation Remains Elusive.

Asbestos Remediation: Safe or Not?

Sep 16, 2020

Operations to remove asbestos from schools in the South Korean Province of Gyeongnam during the summer school holidays have been widely criticized by environmental groups, parents and concerned citizens who claim that operatives did not not minimize the release of asbestos fibers into the environment. On September 8, 2020, there was a demonstration in front of the Gyeongnam Provincial Office of Education over the unsafe practices. At the heart of the protest was dissatisfaction over the use of the contentious “asbestos glove bag method” to prevent atmospheric contamination. See: [사설] 끝없이 되풀이되는 학교석면 부실 철거 [Editorial: Endlessly recurring school asbestos demolition].

Deadly Asbestos Legacy

Sep 16, 2020

A recent feature article considers the nature of asbestos, its properties, uses and the dangers it continues to pose to people in Vietnam, a country where the consumption of chrysotile (white) asbestos remains legal. While acknowledging the serious consequences of exposure to the “silent killer” and the widespread failure to enforce health and safety protection for at-risk workers, the author highlighted multiple issues relating to the disposal of asbestos-contaminated waste and criticized current legislation and guidelines as too lax and confused to prevent toxic exposures. See: Cần loại bỏ có hệ thống và xử lý an toàn các sản phẩm chứa amiang [Products containing asbestos should be systematically disposed of and safely disposed of].

Calls for Asbestos Ban

Sep 14, 2020

In a recent statement, Prof. Dr. Le Van Trinh – Chairman of the Vietnam Association for Occupational Safety and Hygiene – warned about the serious health hazard posed by the laxity of the current regime dealing with the disposal of asbestos-containing waste. As a result of inadequate government policies, the production, use, demolition and dumping of billions of square meters of asbestos-containing roofing sheets have caused widespread environmental contamination. Vietnam is one of the world’s largest asbestos users, importing 60,000 tons of asbestos fiber per year, according to government data. See: Cần loại bỏ các sản phẩm có chứa amiăng [Products containing asbestos should be eliminated].

Toxic Talc

Sep 14, 2020

Experts in Bangladesh, who have criticized the double standards of the US multinational Johnson & Johnson for continuing sales of talc-based baby powder outside the US and Canada whilst withdrawing it from North American markets, have called on the Bangladeshi Government to commission laboratory tests of this suspect product as a matter of priority. This is unlikely to take place as facilities in Bangladesh, reportedly, do not have the expertise or capacity to perform the required analyses. See: Experts urge govt to test Johnson & Johnson baby powder.

Mitsubishi’s Asbestos Crimes

Sep 10, 2020

On September 2, 2020, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan announced that between October 2006 and July 2015 it had illegally sold and shipped asbestos-containing products for repairing engines used on ships, in power generation and for construction work, despite a national asbestos ban. The illegal parts had been made at the company’s plant in Sagamihara City. The company is in the process of setting up a call center to replace the toxic parts free of charge and facilitate the disposal of returned goods contaminated with asbestos. See: 三菱重工、建機エンジン部品でアスベスト含む製品販売 [Mitsubishi Heavy Industries sells products including asbestos for construction machinery engine parts].

Claimants’ Verdict in Tokyo

Sep 8, 2020

Another legal victory was achieved on September 4, 2020 when asbestos claimants won their case in the Tokyo District Court against the Japanese Government and five manufacturers of asbestos-containing building materials. The Court awarded compensation of 1.3 billion yen (US$12.2m) to 121 plaintiffs who had contracted asbestos-related illnesses as a result of toxic exposures at construction sites in the Tokyo area. In the verdict, Judge Tatsuro Maezawa said: “Since 1975 at the latest, when dealing with asbestos, it has been obligatory to use warning signs and dust masks.” See: アスベスト訴訟国とメーカーに13億円余の賠償命じる東京地裁 [Asbestos Litigation Tokyo District Court ordering state and manufacturer compensation of over 1.3 billion yen].

Legal Victory for Constructions Workers

Sep 2, 2020

On August 28, 2020, the Tokyo High Court ordered compensation of 1,679 million yen (~US$16m) to be paid by the Japanese Government and 43 building material manufacturers to 64 former construction workers (known as Kanagawa’s Second Wave of Asbestos Construction Litigation), or surviving family members, for asbestos-related diseases contracted as a result of hazardous workplace exposures. The court found that the defendants had neglected to implement measures to protect workers from the asbestos hazard. Trial Judge Murakami recognized the right of self-employed workers as well as employees to claim for their injuries. See: Tokyo High Court awards compensation for asbestos injuries sustained by construction workers against the Government and private companies.

Urban Asbestos Removal Program

Sep 1, 2020

Gunsan City in South Korea’s North Jeolla Province is progressing plans to protect public health by the implementation of a program to subsidize the removal of asbestos-containing roofing tiles. This initiative – which has been financed since 2013 by the Ministry of Environment – has in 2020 supported remediation efforts by 290 households with an increased budget of 985 million won (US$~835,000). Interested homeowners submit applications for funding to remove and dispose of asbestos roofing to the municipality. The maximum allowable subsidy is 3.44 million won (~US$2900) per household. See: 군산시, 노후 슬레이트 처리 지원 사업 추진 [Gunsan City promotes support project for processing old slate ].

Japanese Construction Workers’ Lawsuit

Aug 27, 2020

On August 27, 2020, hearings began in the Sendai District Court in a case brought on behalf of ten Japanese construction workers injured by workplace asbestos exposures who are seeking damages from the Japanese Government as well as 12 manufacturers of asbestos-containing building materials. Only three of the former claimants are alive; the remaining seven died from asbestos diseases. The plaintiffs are seeking ¥38.5 million (~US$363,000) per worker on the grounds that the defendants had failed to provide protective equipment despite knowing that exposure to asbestos could be hazardous. See: Asbestos-exposed construction workers seek damages from government and firms.

Asbestos Advice

Aug 25, 2020

On August 22 & 23, 2020, a telephone advice line was operational from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. in the Japanese city of Kobe to provide information and advice about asbestos hazards for people who may have been occupationally exposed to asbestos. The service was run by the Asbestos Victims Relief Fund – a non-government organization (NGO) – and took calls such as one from a construction worker who had been exposed to asbestos on a building site. Masayuki Kanda, President of the NGO, expressed concern that: “some people are refraining from going to the hospital or consulting [doctors] because of the new coronavirus, even if they are feeling unwell.” See: アスベスト被害の電話相談 [Telephone consultation regarding asbestos damage].

Interview: Dr. Domyung Paek

Aug 25, 2020

On August 22, 2020, a feature article was published in Korea about the work of Dr. Domyung Paek, a human rights campaigner, scientist and medical researcher who has fought for the rights of Korean victims of occupational diseases for over 30 years. Dr. Paek has been pivotal in mobilizing action on a variety of issues, including the hazards of asbestos exposures, injuries caused to semiconductor workers and the deadly risks posed by the use of humidifier disinfectants – taking part in public protests, speaking at press conferences and travelling internationally to collaborate with campaigners as well as medical colleagues. See: ‘연구활동가’ 백도명, ‘과학의 이름’으로 약자의 곁에 서다 [‘Research Activist' Domyung Paek, stands up for the weak under 'the name of science’].

Miyagi Construction Workers Lawsuit

Aug 24, 2020

Following 16 class action asbestos lawsuits mounted by Japanese construction workers against the State and building material manufacturers, on August 26, 2020 a new class action lawsuit will be filed in Sendai District Court on behalf of construction workers in the Tohoku region who contracted lung cancer from occupational asbestos exposures; in the cases where workers are deceased, the claims will be issued in the name of surviving family members. The lawsuit will seek damages from the State and 12 building material manufacturers. This is the first such legal action brought in Tohoku. See: アスベストで健康被害　宮城の建設労働者ら提訴へ [Miyagi construction workers file lawsuit over asbestos injuries].

Asbestos Removal Subsidies

Aug 17, 2020

On August 13, 2020, the authorities in the South Korean county of Jangseong-gun announced that they would be continuing to support local efforts to remediate asbestos roofing on local properties. Since 2011, the county has supported the removal of asbestos tiles on 2,580 homes as well as on business premises, including warehouses, factories and barns. In 2020, applications for funding to remove asbestos on 316 properties have been approved; 255 of the subsidized projects have already been completed. See: 장성군, 노후 석면 슬레이트 처리 지원 [Jangseong-gun to support the removal of deteriorating asbestos roofing].

Vietnam’s Asbestos Legacy

Aug 13, 2020

A Vietnamese article uploaded on August 11, 2020 which contained a warning about the hazard posed by exposure to asbestos-cement material featured the tragic story of 49 year-old Ms Quang Ninh now suffering from the signature asbestos cancer, mesothelioma. According to Dr. Nguyen Duc Hoanh – Head of Surgery in the Cardiology and Chest Intervention Department of Uong Bi Hospital – pleural mesothelioma is a fatal disease with a long latency period. The best way to avoid contracting mesothelioma is to avoid contact with asbestos-containing materials at work and at home. When contact is unavoidable protective equipment must be used. See: Hạn chế tiếp xúc với các vật liệu chứa amiăng [Limit contact with asbestos-containing materials].

Asbestos Crackdown

Aug 4, 2020

Authorities in the South Korean Province of Gyeonggi will be cracking down on infringements of demolition industry asbestos regulations and the illegal disposal of asbestos waste between August 10 and 28, 2020 according to an announcement on August 4 by the Gyeonggi-do Special Judicial Police Agency. Unlike previous investigations in cities such as Anseong and Siheung, this initiative will target illegal operations throughout the province. At least 4,000 structures in Gyeonggi contain asbestos according to government figures released in June 2020. See: 특사경, 폐석면 무단투기·매립 등 불법 처리행위 집중 수사 [Investigation of illegal handling activities such as special shipments, illegal dumping and recycling of asbestos waste].

Asbestos Alert

Jul 31, 2020

A feature article in a Vietnam news outlet last Sunday (July 26, 2020), highlighted the occupational and public health hazard posed by exposure to asbestos in Vietnam, stating that: “The cancer rate of workers exposed to asbestos was 1.8 times higher than that of non-exposed workers.” Citing copious medical evidence and scientific findings about the human health hazard posed by asbestos exposures, the author of this article pointed out the risk posed to people living near asbestos-processing factories. Unfortunately, misinformation is also included in the text which alleged that asbestos when incorporated into asbestos-cement was not “harmful.” See: Nguy cơ chết người từ bụi khí amiăng [Deadly risk from asbestos].

Asbestos Update 2020

Jul 23, 2020

On July 23, 2020, Australia’s Union Aid Abroad- APHEDA held a one hour webinar which addressed contemporary issues relating to continuing asbestos use in India and Indonesia during the Covid-19 pandemic. Using ZOOM technology, Pooja Gupta from the Indian Ban Asbestos Network and Muchamed Darisman from the Indonesian Ban Asbestos Network gave presentations detailing current levels of asbestos use and strategies being pursued to raise asbestos awareness and counteract industry pressure on governments and regional bodies. Other speakers were APHEDA’s Kate Lee and Liam O’Brien from the Australian Council of Trade Unions. See: Asbestos Ban Update: Campaigning in a global crisis.

Metro Refurbishment: Asbestos Risks

Jul 23, 2020

Following a morning press conference held in Seoul, Korea by the Environmental Health Citizens’ Center (EHCC) – an NGO which brings together experts, activists and victims to address the pollution crisis in Asia – on July 20, 2020, journalists were invited on an accompanied tour to City Hall Station to observe first-hand the dangers posed by the liberation of tremolite asbestos during refurbishment work on Metro Line 2 in the Seoul Subway. EHCC spokesmen urged that all work at this site be stopped immediately and that an emergency safety investigation be undertaken as a matter of priority. See: 환경보건시민센터 활동 언론보도 [Press Release from Environmental Health Citizen Center].

“Invisible” Asbestos Taskmasters

Jul 16, 2020

A June 10, 2020 complaint to Google LLC by the Kusto Group, “a Kazakh multinational with extensive interests in the chrysotile [asbestos] industry” cited a total of 6 instances of copyright infringement by the Australian website: New Matilda and the website of the Colombian Asbestos Free Foundation. The subject of the complaints was the unapproved use on two occasions of a photograph of Daniel Kunin, Kusto’s Managing Director, and on four occasions of a photograph of Yerkin Tatishev, Kusto’s CEO. See: DMCA (Copyright) Complaint to Google.

Occupational Asbestos Education

Jul 15 2020

The Asbestos Victims’ Prevention Center – a new center for the training of asbestos removal operatives, supervisors and others – has opened in the city of Incheon in north-western South Korea. The Center provides on-the-job training to update knowledge and skills of first-line technicians and managers of asbestos removal projects. Similar initiatives in other regional centers are also working to raise industry standards; they include: the Chungnam Asbestos Victims Prevention Center and the Daejeon Asbestos Victims Prevention Center. See: (사)석면피해예방지원센터, 전국 석면종사자 대상 직무교육 나서[Asbestos Victims Prevention Center, to provide job training for asbestos (removal) workers nationwide].

Asbestos Remediation Program

Jul 13, 2020

The authorities of Jeju Island – the largest island in South Korea – have reported a huge increase in the number of applications for financial support for the removal of asbestos roofing from business and domestic properties. A spokesman for the provincial government reported on July 12, 2020 that by the end of June, a total of 1,072 requests had been received since February 5, 2020; 648 had been approved. An average of 228 applications – which came from claimants in 40+ towns and villages – were made per month. Up to the end of 2019, aid had been given for the removal of asbestos roofing from 6,553 buildings; in 2020, funding had been allocated for 1,590 grants. See: 제주, 석면 슬레이트 지붕 철거 지원사업 신청자 급증 [Jeju, asbestos slate roof demolition support applications surge].

Calls to Ban Asbestos!

Jul 13, 2020

An online petition sponsored by Australia’s Union Aid Abroad (APHEDA) has called on international agencies and lenders – such as the World Bank, Asian Development Bank and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank which have offered “tens of billions of dollars in grants and additional ‘concessional’ credit to the world’s poorest countries” – to ensure that Covid-19 health and economic stimulus funding is not used to purchase asbestos-containing products for the construction of new infrastructure projects such as hospitals and other public buildings. See: To World Bank, IMF and AIIB: No asbestos in Covid 19 relief.

Pioneering Asbestos Program

Jul 7, 2020

On July 1, 2020, the authorities in the South Korean Province of South Chungcheong announced plans to conduct an asbestos health survey, in collaboration with personnel from the Cheonan Hospital of Soonchunnhyang University, of residents in neighborhoods near a former asbestos mine. Residents over the age of 40 in Hongseong, Boryeong and Cheongyang who lived for more than 10 years within a 2 km radius of the mine will be interviewed, screened and medically examined as appropriate with follow-up testing conducted of those with symptoms. See: 충남, 석면 노출 우려지역 건강영향조사 재개 [Chungnam resumes health impact survey on asbestos-exposed areas].

Asbestos Program for Military

Jun 29, 2020

On June 29, 2020, Korea’s defense ministry said it would eliminate asbestos from all military facilities to safeguard the health and safety of service personnel. A national asbestos audit in 2019 found that ~11,600 military structures were contaminated with asbestos, of which 5,450 buildings – such as barracks and restaurants inside bases – were in use every day. The target for removing asbestos from these structures is 2022, with the remediation of the others to be accomplished by 2025. Funding allocated for removal work in 2020 was US$58+ million with at least the same set aside per year for 2021-2025. See: Defense ministry to remove asbestos from all military structures by 2025.

Sad Anniversary

Jun 29, 2020

June 29, 2020 is the 15th anniversary of the “Kubota Shock (KS)”; the KS initiated a public awakening in Japan of the existence of a nation-wide epidemic of asbestos-related diseases. Since the KS, 600 people have died in Amagasaki City, Hyogo Prefecture – the location of a former Kubota company factory – from both occupational and environmental exposures to asbestos fibers liberated by the manufacturing at the Kanzaki site. According to asbestos victims’ campaigner Hiroshi Iida: “The damage is not over…It is a catastrophe that should not be forgotten.” See:「病魔今ごろ暴れだした」クボタ石綿被害、１５年で６００人に [“Disease now rampages” Kubota Asbestos damage, 600 people in 15 years].

Benefits Vacuum: Lung Cancer Cases

Jun 26, 2020

As of the end of 2018, more than US$735 million of Japanese government benefits allocated for the payment of compensation to asbestos victims remained unused due to a massive under-recording and under-recognition of cases of lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure. According to Professor Masahide Sakamoto, an expert on asbestos issues at Senshu University: “Surplus funds have amassed to nearly 80 billion yen because lung cancer patients could not be certified properly and there are holes in the system. The qualification criteria for lung cancer patients should be reviewed and consideration should be made for the benefits to be upgraded to a level that enables minimal living standards.” See: Japan gov't relief funds for asbestos going unused due to few lung cancer certifications.

Failed by the State

Jun 26, 2020

An online commentary on a Japanese news portal considered the hypocrisy illustrated by Johnson & Johnson’s (J&J’s) decision to end sales of talc-based baby powder in North America whilst continuing to sell its toxic product in Japan. Questions asked to officials at Japan’s Consumer Affairs Agency and Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare by the author of the commentary about the hazards posed by exposing Japanese babies and their mothers to J&J’s baby powder were fobbed off with civil service doublespeak. No response was received from J&J Japan. See: 北米では販売中止にアスベスト入りベビーパウダーを日本はなぜ野放しに [Discontinued in North America Why baby powder with asbestos left unchecked in Japan].

Deadly Asbestos Legacy

Jun 3, 2020

The results of an annual health report by Japan's Environment Ministry confirmed that more than 30% of respondents to the ministry’s survey had developed symptoms of asbestos-related conditions by inhaling asbestos liberated by the operations of local asbestos-using factories. The authors of the report documenting the newly released data warned that the figure of “over 30%” was an underestimate of the likely impact of asbestos exposures on local populations. Despite this and other government initiatives, many people remain unaware of the environmental hazard posed by their exposure to asbestos say health and safety campaigners in Japan. See: Link between local residents' illnesses and asbestos use at factories: Japan study.

Price Gouging in Bengal

Jun 3, 2020

In the aftermath of Cyclone Amphan and with the Covid-19 pandemic still raging in the Indian state of West Bengal: “Bamboo that used to cost Rs150 is now Rs500. Each 8×3 asbestos sheet cost Rs530 earlier but is selling for Rs650.” Materials needed to repair damage caused by the storm are in short supply; with no help from local, regional or national authorities, families are trying to provide shelter using whatever supplies are available including old saris, plastic sheeting and hazardous asbestos-cement roofing. See: Covid, cyclone, lockdown: All lines blur in Sundarbans.

Update: Global Asbestosis Data

Jun 1, 2020

Data and conclusions in a study supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China reinforced opinions in a blog entitled China’s Rejection of Asbestos: Official regarding growing support of the Chinese government for a transition to asbestos-free technology. The authors of the paper stated: “Furthermore, the most pronounced increases in ASIR [age-standardised incidence rate] of asbestosis were detected in high-income North America and Australasia. These findings indicate that efforts to change the asbestos regulation policy are urgently needed.” See: Increasing incidence of asbestosis worldwide, 1990–2017: results from the Global Burden of Disease study 2017.

Another type of asbestos-free brakes!

Jun 1, 2020

Environmentally friendly motorcycle brake pads using coffee grinds have been pioneered by an entrepreneur in Vietnam: Mr. Nguyen Thai Son – Director of Nam Khanh Brake Joint Stock Company. “Using this material not only recycles coffee grounds, but also helps create a unique aroma for each product,” he said. The Institute of Building Materials (Ministry of Construction) has certified this product asbestos-free. The company plans to promote sales in Vietnam and abroad targeting markets in Thailand and Cambodia. See: á phanh xe được làm từ ... bã cà phê [Brake pads made from ... coffee grounds].

Asbestos: New Restrictions

Jun 1, 2020

Last week, regulations were tightened in Japan in the Revised Air Pollution Control Act to prevent the liberation of asbestos during demolition work on contaminated buildings. The new provisions mandated the commissioning and submission of asbestos audits to local authorities before work on asbestos-containing structures was begun; these regulations, which will be implemented by 2022, could increase the number of dismantling projects supervised by the Ministry of Environment from 16,000 to 320,000 per year. See: アスベスト飛散防止徹底へ改正大気汚染防止法が成立 [Thorough prevention of asbestos scattering as Revised Air Pollution Control Law enacted].

Asbestos Fly-Tipping in Korea

May 30, 2020

On May 27, 2020, a 25-ton dump truck was spotted by scores of residents in the forested outskirts of Jinju, a city in the South Gyeongsang Province of South Korea. Suspicions over the activities of the truck’s operators were reported to the police and as a result three men were arrested and charged under the Industrial Waste Management Act with the illegal disposal of 100 tonnes of asbestos-containing industrial waste. The truck had counterfeit markings on it identifying it as belonging to a government agency. The Jinju city cleaning department was commissioned to remove the toxic debris and remediate the area. See: 산업폐기물 1급 발암물질 '석면' 몰래 버리다 주민신고로 덜미 [Industrial waste, first-class carcinogen, ‘asbestos’].

Toxic Talc

May 26, 2020

On May 22, 2020, in the aftermath of news that Johnson & Johnson would no longer sell its iconic baby powder in the US and Canada, the Penang Consumers Association called on the Malaysian Ministry of Health to ban talcum powder and products based on talc powder. To avoid the hazard posed by exposure to talcum powder contaminated with asbestos, the association advised consumers to use products containing corn starch or white rice powder for personal hygiene and recommended that ointment not talcum powder be used to avoid nappy rashes in babies. See: 槟消协促政府禁含滑石粉产品 [Penang Consumer Association urges the government to ban products containing talc].

Asbestos and Lung Cancer

May 21, 2020

A feature article in the May 10 Sunday issue of a popular Vietnamese online newspaper highlighted the lung cancer risk posed by asbestos exposures stating that: “People working in the construction and repair industry of cars are at the highest risk of asbestos exposure because this material has been used in buildings and automobile manufacturing industry.” In recent years, intense pressure has been brought to bear by asbestos lobbyists on the government to forestall efforts to implement restrictions and prohibitions on asbestos use in Vietnam (Vietnam’s Asbestos Frontline 2019). See: 7 nguy cơ gây ung thư phổi [7 risks for lung cancer].

Call for Asbestos Ban in China!

May 6, 2020

In a new paper, scientists from medical and health institutions in Beijing and Guangdong, China are recommending that: “Enterprises should be encouraged to use safer substitutes and gradually ban asbestos materials in China” in order to eradicate an epidemic of asbestos-related diseases. As the text was included in the current issue of China CDC Weekly, an online platform for the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention – “a governmental and national-level technical organization” – it is probable that the authors’ findings will have been discussed at the highest levels of government. China is a major producer and consumer of asbestos. See: Distribution of Asbestos Enterprises and Asbestosis Cases — China, 1997-2019.

New Therapy Protocol for Mesothelioma?

Apr 27, 2020

A paper uploaded on April 20, 2020 by a team of 18 Japanese researchers explored the potential of using a recently developed cancer therapy – Near-Infrared photoimmunotherapy (NIR-PIT) – for the treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). The results reported from in-vivo and in-vitro tests suggested that Podoplanin-targeted NIR-PIT could be a promising new treatment for MPM. See: Targeted Phototherapy for Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma: Near-Infrared Photoimmunotherapy Targeting Podoplanin.

Asbestos Conundrum from Malaysia

Mar 20, 2020

An article by Assoc. Prof. Dr Warren Thomas – who cites his membership of Ireland’s Royal College of Surgeons and is currently working at Malaysia’s Perdana University (see: Professor Warren Thomas’ profile) – downplays the health hazard posed by human exposures to chrysotile (white) asbestos stating: “there remains some uncertainty over the health risks associated with white (chrysotile) asbestos.” As the subjects taught by Thomas are: Cardiovascular Physiology, Endocrinology, Renal Physiology and Neurophysiology, one wonders what motivated him to offer himself as an expert on this subject? See: Asbestos exposure can cause lung cancer years later.

Asbestos Ban Resolution

Feb 27, 2020

A resolution submitted to the 12th National Health Assembly of Thailand in December 2019 called for a complete ban on the use of all types of asbestos. The proposal requested that government agencies and ministries take steps to: prohibit asbestos use by 2025 at the latest, support the use of safer alternatives, raise awareness of the health hazard, issue guidelines for the safe disposal of asbestos waste and develop systems for diagnosing asbestos-related diseases and compensating the injured. In order to implement the provisions of the proposal, approval from the National Health Commission and the Thai cabinet is required. See: Revision of National Health Assembly Resolution: Thailand ban asbestos measure.

Asbestos Earthquake Hazard

Feb 17, 2020

A documentary on Japan TV marking the 25th anniversary of the Great Hanshin Earthquake, explored the asbestos hazard resulting from that disaster; filmmakers detailed the case of Kazunori Shimatani, a former employee of Akashi City, Hyogo Prefecture who died from mesothelioma in 2013 at the age of 49. Mr. Shimatani had been exposed to asbestos during the post-earthquake clean-up. The death of Mr. Shimatani has not been officially recognized or compensated. To date, a total of five Hyogo Prefecture workers – including clean-up crews and first responders – have been diagnosed with mesothelioma. See: 阪神大震災から25年…“静かな時限爆弾”アスベストの脅威 [25 years since the Great Hanshin Earthquake ... “Silent time bomb! asbestos threat].

Asbestos-Cement Roofing: Alert

Feb 13, 2020

At a ceremony in Jakarta on February 11, 2020 to mark the founding of the Indonesian National Movement for Lung Cancer Care, lung specialist Dr. Elisna Syahruddin issued a warning about the health hazard posed by living in close proximity to asbestos-cement roofing due to the link between asbestos exposure and lung cancer. Syahruddin advised that asbestos products should not be used. The number of lung cancer cases in Indonesia is now more than 10 times what it was 15 years ago with male patients accounting for almost 90% of those affected. See: Atap Asbes Disebut Bisa Tingkatkan Risiko Kanker Paru-paru [Asbestos roofing said to increase the risk of lung cancer].

Toxic Talc

Feb 13, 2020

An online article by a Vietnamese medical consultant discussed the controversy over the use of talcum powder in cosmetic products due to findings that the talc could contain asbestos fibers. Exposure to asbestos can cause various cancers including lung cancer and ovarian cancer. Having considered information from different sources and explained research findings, the author concluded that: “you should still be cautious about using products containing this ingredient. Ideally, you should avoid products containing talc containing asbestos.” See: Bạn có nên hạn chế dùng bột talc để phòng ngừa ung thư? [Should you limit the use of talcum powder to prevent cancer?].

Ban Asbestos Award

Feb 11, 2020

On February 6, 2020, the Indonesian city of Bandung received an award for its commitment to eradicating the asbestos hazard. A certificate from the (Australian) Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency was presented to the Deputy Mayor Yana Mulyana at City Hall by Campaigner Phillip Hazleton from the Australian group: Union Aid Abroad. This month, Bandung City Assembly announced it was expanding its 2018 asbestos ban for commercial buildings to include all new private houses; Bandung is the only city in Indonesia that prohibits asbestos use in buildings. See: Konsisten Larang Penggunaan Asbes, Kota Bandung Raih Penghargaan [For its Commitment to Banning the Use of Asbestos, Bandung City Wins Award].

Asbestos Exposures in Ship-breaking

Feb 11, 2020

New figures released by a Belgian-based NGO show that Bangladesh dismantled 47.2% of all vessels scrapped in 2018. There are an estimated 3,000 permanent and up to 7,000 temporary workers in the country’s ship-breaking yards. In most cases, harmful substances are not identified and toxic exposures to carcinogens like asbestos occur daily. As well as endangering the health of workers and local communities, the pollution produced by ship-breaking destroys coastal ecosystems. See: Bangladesh retains top spot in global ship breaking trade.

Asbestos Hazard in Shipyards

Feb 11, 2020

Research undertaken at shipyards in India confirmed the high level of risk of contracting asbestos cancer which exists and highlighted the lack of political will to take preventative action. The findings of the scientists were disturbing: airborne asbestos fiber concentrations in the ship recycling yards could exceed 100 fibres/ml; by 2027, ~4,500 people could die from mesothelioma as a result of improper handling of asbestos at these workplaces with more deaths amongst bystanders than those directly exposed; most of these fatalities will go unreported. See: Assessment of the future mesothelioma disease burden from past exposure to asbestos in ship recycling yards in India.

Asbestos Legacy

Feb 6, 2020

Exposures experienced 20 years ago due to asbestos remediation work at Camp Walker – a U.S. army base in South Korea – have been blamed by veterans for causing serious diseases. Army inspections carried out in 1996 of bases in Korea found asbestos in 200 buildings. According to a report in Stars and Stripes – a U.S. military newspaper – in May 2000: “Experts say dozens of buildings on bases across South Korea might be contaminated with broken pieces of asbestos resulting in crushed, airborne fragments that can be deadly if inhaled.” From 1994 to 2000, cancer sufferer David Sewell worked at the base and was there during the removal operations. See: Army veterans blame health problems on asbestos removal at South Korean base.

Replacement of Asbestos-Cement Pipes

Feb 4, 2020

According to Malaysia’s National Water Services Commission, in 2018 there were about 41,560 km of asbestos cement (AC) pipes in the country. The AC pipes, which were installed 60 years ago, pose health risks and have been banned in many countries. Government funds for upgrades to the country’s water delivery system are insufficient to pay for a nationwide pipe replacement program. To address this situation there is a proposal to solicit individual and corporate contributions for this work. If successful, this government-corporation-community collaboration would ensure the replacement of all AC pipes in a more timely and cost-effective manner. See: The Malaysian leaky pipe story.

Occupational Asbestos Exposure Risks

Jan 20, 2020

Data on asbestos-related diseases is extremely limited in Indonesia, a country where asbestos-containing products remain a popular choice for consumers. A collaborative study by Indonesian and international researchers investigated the risk of contracting lung cancer from occupational exposure to asbestos and found a “significant association between the duration of asbestos exposure... and the risk of lung cancer.” The co-authors of this paper also found a “positive additive and multiplicative interaction between smoking and asbestos [exposure]...[and] that the chance of getting lung cancer more than doubled among exposed subjects compared with unexposed subjects.” See: Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer: A Hospital-Based Case-Control Study in Indonesia.

Asbestos Outreach Workshop

Jan 10, 2020

On January 8, 2020 a workshop entitled “The Environment and Health: Toxicity of Chrysotile (Asbestos) in Fibro Cement Roofing” was held at the Institute of Natural Resources, Environment and Community Development in Hanoi. The objective of this event was to provide updated and independent information regarding the hazard posed by the use of asbestos – a substance not yet banned in Vietnam – to inform the national asbestos dialogue and help progress ongoing efforts to implement a national asbestos ban. Although Vietnam has developed a roadmap to cease asbestos use by 2023, lobbyists are trying to derail efforts to protect the population from avoidable toxic exposures. See: Bàn giải pháp ngừng sử dụng Amiăng trắng ở Việt Nam [Table of solutions to stop using chrysotile in Vietnam].

Asbestos Odyssey in India

Jan 10, 2020

An online article describes the decades-long campaign by activist Raghunath Manwar to support workers in India, in particular those injured by occupational exposures to asbestos. Through his work establishing the NGO Occupational Health and Safety Association, the septuagenarian raised awareness regarding exposure to workplace toxins and assisted those affected to claim compensation and access medical care. In this quest for justice, Manwar confronted government bodies, powerful corporations and vested interests pursuing restitution via the courts as well as media outlets. See: Asbestos Poisoning: Raghunath Manwar’s Fight for Safer Work Conditions.

Asbestos Outlawed in Schools

Jan 6, 2020

According to the Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights no building in which children study including madrasas, religious schools, private and state schools should have asbestos roofs. Should they have this type of roofing, local self-government departments had been told not to refuse to issue licences or building numbers and to take action against them under the Kerala Panchayat Raj Act and the Kerala Municipalities Act. The Commission’s recommendations were made in response to a case regarding an asbestos roof at a madrasa. The school authorities had been given 45 days to complete the removal and replacement of the toxic roofing. See: No asbestos roof for places where children study: panel.

Asbestos at the Olympics

Jan 6, 2020

News that asbestos contamination had been found at the Tatsumi Water Polo Center – a venue which will be used for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics – was widely reported throughout the last week of 2019. Although the asbestos problem had been identified in 2017, the building’s owners, the Tokyo Metropolitan government, had failed to take remedial action, claiming that “there was a low degree of danger.” On December 25, however, it was announced that the situation would be addressed in order to prevent environmental contamination that might endanger spectators. See: Tokyo officials finally tackle asbestos hazard at Olympic venue.

Asbestos Alert!

Jan 6, 2020

An article on a website in Kazakhstan – the world’s second largest exporter of chrysotile (white) asbestos – which was uploaded on December 30, 2019 highlighted the human health risks posed by exposure to asbestos-containing products such as roofing material popular throughout the country; a picture of asbestos roofing illustrated the feature. The article quoted a leading Russian oncologist who had recently spoken out about the proven link between lung cancer and asbestos exposure. See: Вещь, которая есть в каждом доме и вызывает рак [The thing that is in every home and causes cancer].

Asian Development Bank

Dec 19, 2019

One of the most important financial providers in the Pacific region – the Asian Development Bank (ADB) – has been criticized by trade union campaigners for endangering public and occupational health by its failure to ban the use of asbestos-containing products for the projects it finances. The ADB’s Prohibited Investment Activities Policy allows ADB project contractors to use materials that contain asbestos – such as asbestos sheeting – even though the policy has a clause stating: “the production, trade and use of raw asbestos is prohibited.” See: Asian Development Bank called out for asbestos use in Pacific projects.

Asbestos Documentary: Top Prize

Dec 16, 2019

Last weekend, a documentary entitled: “Chrysotile causes cancer in humans” by VTV 1 – the first channel launched by Vietnam Television in 1970 – won the top award at the government backed 39th National Film and TV Awards for best TV/Film documentary. The film featured interviews with ban asbestos campaigners including leaders of the Vietnam Ban Asbestos Network as well as as with asbestos industry representatives. Following the broadcast, film-maker Mr Pham Xuan Hung had been attacked by the industry lobby which is pressurizing the government to forestall planned action on the asbestos hazard. See: Phim tài liệu khoa học: Amiang trắng và sự lựa chọn [Scientific documentary: White asbestos and the choice].

Chrysotile Asbestos: Killer Fiber

Dec 16, 2019

A feature article commenting on a report by Reuters into the toxic talc scandal over asbestos found in Johnson & Johnson baby powder included statements from Vietnamese experts indicting all asbestos, including chrysotile (white) asbestos, as carcinogenic. The experts interviewed were Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Hong Con from Hanoi University of Natural Sciences and Prof. Dr. Nguyen Ba Duc, former Director of K Hospital, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Cancer Society, who highlighted the hazard posed by the continuing use of asbestos-containing roofing sheets in Vietnam. See: Amiăng thuộc nhóm một các chất gây ung thư cho người [Asbestos belongs to a group of carcinogens for humans].

Legal Victory for Victims

Dec 10, 2019

On November 11, 2019, the Fukuoka High Court ordered the government and 4 construction material manufacturers to pay compensation of ¥350 million (~US$3.22m) to former construction workers and bereaved relatives from the Kyushu region for health problems caused by occupational exposures to asbestos. Judge Noriyuki Yamanouchi ruled that the government and the four companies had negligently failed to implement measures to protect workers’ safety. In addition, the judge upheld actions brought by self-employed contractors and ordered the government to compensate 27 of the 28 claimants and the companies to compensate 26. See: Fukuoka court orders Japan and firms to pay ¥350 million for health problems due to asbestos.

Congressional Ban Asbestos Bill

Dec 8, 2019

Draft legislation to ban the use of asbestos in most construction applications was tabled in the Philippines House of Representatives by Rep. Raymond C. Mendoza. The purpose of House Bill No. 2636, which would – if it succeeded – become the Ban Asbestos Act of 2019, was to protect shipbuilders, construction workers, plumbers, electricians, auto workers and others from deadly workplace exposures to asbestos. The bill would authorize the Department of Health and members of an inter-agency council to propose regulations prohibiting asbestos imports, manufacturing, processing, use, or distribution for commercial purposes. See: Party-list legislator proposes asbestos ban in construction.

Incubating an Asbestos Epidemic

Dec 8, 2019

A detailed exposé regarding widespread asbestos contamination in Indonesia, which was published by an Australian network in November 2019, pointed out that Indonesia was the world’s second biggest asbestos importer and that up to 10% of the country’s buildings contained asbestos. Citing data from international agencies including the World Health Organization, the piece concluded that the ubiquity and continuing use of asbestos in the country boded ill for future generations who could see deadly epidemics of cancer and respiratory diseases develop due to toxic workplace and environmental exposures. See: White asbestos lines many Indonesian buildings and health experts fear a coming cancer ‘explosion’.

India’s Asbestos Curse

Oct 23, 2019

A paper published by Indian medical practitioners highlighted the ongoing epidemic of asbestos-related diseases in India and predicted that in decades to come – because of the current use of 350,000 tonnes of asbestos per year in India – there could be thousands of deaths per year from just one asbestos cancer – mesothelioma – with tens of thousands of additional fatalities from other asbestos-related illnesses. The authors stated: “In the near future, there will be at least 12.5 million ARD [asbestos-related disease] patients and 1.25 million asbestos-related cancer patients worldwide, and half of these will be in India.” See: Current Asbestos Exposure and Future Need for Palliative Care in India.

Asbestos Industry Attack

Oct 18, 2019

Asbestos vested interests, suffering from a fall in demand for their products, have embarked on a media offensive condemning the Vietnam Government’s plans to ban the use of asbestos-cement roofing. It is alleged that the government’s position was based on lies told to various agencies including the National Assembly's Committee for Science, Technology and Environment. Quotes from people working in asbestos-cement factories and consumers are cited in support of the calls by the industry for a U-turn on the asbestos ban. See: Không để thông tin thái quá về tấm lợp fibro xi măng gây hoang mang dư luận [Do not let outrageous information about fibro cement roofing sheets confuse public opinion].

Causation of Colorectal Cancer.

Oct 18, 2019

Research by Korean scientists confirmed the link between occupational asbestos exposure and colorectal cancer mortality. “There was,” they wrote “a significantly increased risk of colorectal cancer mortality among workers exposed to asbestos occupationally…This implies that the risk of colorectal cancer mortality increases as the level of asbestos exposure rises.” Concluding their article, the authors reaffirmed that their findings indicated that occupational exposure to asbestos was a risk factor for colorectal cancer. See: Exposure to asbestos and the risk of colorectal cancer mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Asbestos Banned at Schools!

Oct 16, 2019

The Government of Kerala has set a two year deadline for asbestos roofing to be removed from 1,000 state, private and independent schools on the grounds of the “harmful impact on students’ health.” The mandatory order follows a ruling by the Kerala High Court in a case brought by a school manager from Thrissur. The Director of Education (DGE) has been instructed to compile an audit of schools with the toxic roofing and ensure that removal work is accomplished in a timely fashion; the DGE must submit monthly update reports on progress to the authorities. See: Govt. bans asbestos roofs in schools.

Asbestos Identification and Analysis

Oct 16, 2019

The acquisition of new microscope technology will enable Cambodian customs officers to identify asbestos-containing materials for the first time. The new equipment and training were gifted by Australian donors: Union Aid Abroad – APHEDA and the Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency. At the presentation event, Deputy Director General Ministry of Commerce H.E. Phan Oun, said: “This is something new for us … We know asbestos is a big problem. We need a long-term action plan to ban asbestos.” The new microscope and the training provided will enable Cambodian personnel to test products for asbestos for the first time. See: Spotting the Dangers of Asbestos in Cambodia.

Ban Asbestos Dialogue: Update

Oct 12, 2019

The introduction of a roadmap to phase-out asbestos use in Vietnam has led to an increase in lobbying to maintain the status quo, even though a drop in asbestos usage indicated a fall in consumer demand. The article referenced below rehashes complaints that alternative products were expensive and there was no data substantiating the existence of a national asbestos epidemic. Nevertheless, the author reported that the Ministry of Science and Technology (MST) had directed the Ministry of Industry and Trade to accelerate research into asbestos-free materials. The MST also planned to collaborate closely with other Ministries to find affordable and safer solutions. See: Thiếu thị trường cho sản phẩm vật liệu không amiăng [Lack of (current) market for non-asbestos products].

Legal Victory for Victims

Oct 14, 2019

At a press conference after a meeting of the Japanese Cabinet this week, Minister of Justice Kawai announced the Government would not appeal a September 2019 ruling by the Fukuoka High Court which upheld a claim, by a former worker who contracted lung cancer, that the compensation he should receive from the government for occupational asbestos exposures should be higher than the standard rate previously set. He was awarded 12.65 million yen (US$117,000). The positive verdict for the Kitakyushu City man followed similar outcomes for litigants in Kobe and Hiroshima. See: スベストの健康被害めぐる福岡高裁判決政府受け入れ方針 [Fukuoka High Court Decision on Asbestos Health Damage, Government Accepts Ruling].

Ban Asbestos, Now!

Oct 9, 2019

A chapter in a book just released entitled Status of Corporate Responsibility in India, 2019 - Is Human Rights in Business Limited to Rhetoric? sheds light on the current asbestos scenario in the world’s largest asbestos importing country. Concluding the eight page text which constitutes Chapter 11 – written by National Coordinator of the India Ban Asbestos Network Pooja Gupta and human rights lawyer Lara Jesani – the authors called for “a total and unconditional ban of asbestos in the country, and systematic work towards eliminating asbestos from the environment and human ecosystem.” See: Deplorable Cost of Corporate Greed: A Study of the Asbestos Industry.

Vietnam’s “Cancer Village”

Oct 7 2019

An investigation by government authorities failed to establish the reason for the elevated incidence of cancer in Tho Vi village, Thanh Hoa province. The small hamlet of 1,700 people has now joined the list of top ten villages in the country with the most cancer patients. In some households, multiple family members have died. Having monitored the situation for a number of years local man Mr Tran Minh Han was firmly convinced that the cause of the cancer spike was asbestos-contaminated water; asbestos fibers from a nearby derelict quarry were believed to have gotten into the water and debris from the mine was often used in building projects by villagers. See: Nỗi ám ảnh amiăng của người dân “làng ung thư” (Kỳ 1) [Asbestos obsession of "cancer village" people (Part 1)].

Government’s Asbestos Liability

Oct 1, 2019

Under a settlement registered on September 27, 2019 with the Osaka District Court, the Government of Japan agreed to pay 57.2 million yen (US$530,000) to the families of 4 workers who died from asbestos-related diseases due to exposures experienced whilst recycling asbestos-contaminated hemp bags. The agreement followed a case brought by relatives of people who worked in 3 factories in Sakai City between 1944 and 1976. According to the defense team, this is the first settlement in Japan for asbestos disease contracted as a result of employment at a bag recycling plant. See: 麻袋リサイクル作業で石綿被害、国と元労働者が初の和解大阪地裁 [Asbestos damage due to recycling of hemp bags, first settlement between the country and former workers Osaka District Court].

Toxic Thermos Flasks: Made in China

Sep 30, 2019

Last week, new tests results were released in Vietnam documenting asbestos contamination of thermos flasks made in China. According to the Research and Quality Accreditation Institute in Jiangsu Province, China, the thermoses tested contained asbestos. Commenting on these results, Vietnamese asbestos expert Dr. Tran Tuan said: “Asbestos-related diseases are preventable, and the most effective way to prevent them is to stop using all forms of asbestos to prevent exposure.” The Chinese government issued a warning to consumers about the toxic products. See: Amiăng trong bình giữ nhiệt xuất xứ từ Trung Quốc có thể gây ung thư và phá hủy nội tạng [Asbestos in Chinese-made thermos can cause cancer and organ damage].

Pre-Olympics Asbestos Hazard

Sep 28, 2019

An editorial in The Japan Times highlighted the dangers posed by the demolition of buildings containing asbestos to make way for new constructions for the Tokyo Olympics 2020. The author called for urgent implementation of tighter regulations for dealing with asbestos – a substance widely used in building products throughout Japan for several decades – in order to protect occupational and public safety. Two million eight hundred thousand buildings in Japan are believed to contain asbestos; between 2000 and 2040, it has been estimated that up to 100,000 people could die from the asbestos cancer mesothelioma. See: Halt further health damage from asbestos.

Asbestos Industry Offensive

Sep 23, 2019

An article which bemoaned the current commercial plight of the asbestos industry in Vietnam claimed that decreasing sales were due to unsubstantiated fears about the effects of human exposures to chrysotile (white) asbestos-containing cement roofing. According to the author of this biased text, no cases of mesothelioma have been recorded from occupational or environmental exposure to chrysotile fibers in cement roofing. Information provided by and demands for government action made by the Vietnam Roofing Association – a trade association representing asbestos vested interests – were detailed. See: Doanh nghiệp "thoi thóp" chờ quyết sách về Fibro ximăng [Business community waiting for a decision about Fibro cement].

Asbestos Health Camp

Sep 23, 2019

Efforts to support South Korea’s asbestos victims continued at a healing camp held on September 20, 2019 in Chungnam Province which was attended by the regional governor Yang Seung-jo. The objectives of the camp, which was hosted by the Province and the Asbestos Environmental Health Center, included awareness monitoring amongst the asbestos victims and improving psychological stability via measures such as health classes and cultural visits. The Governor pledged to “promptly dismantle and remove existing risk factors,” to prevent further exposures to asbestos. See: 양승조 지사 “석면 피해 예방·구제 투트랙 정책 펼 것” [Gov. Yang Seung-jo says, "asbestos damage relief measures will be expanded"].

Building Technical Capacity

Sep 16, 2019

Last week, asbestos training was provided by Australian technical experts to Cambodian laboratory staff for the first time at sessions which took place in Phnom Penh. State-of-the-art scientific equipment and microscopes for the testing of asbestos-containing material were provided by the Australian Safety and Eradication Agency in the presence of representatives of the Australian Embassy in Cambodia, Australia’s Union Aid Abroad – APHEDA, the Building and Woodworkers’ Union, the Ministry of Commerce and the Cambodian Ban Asbestos Network (CAMBAN). See: Photo from training session (sourced from the Facebook page of Australia’s Union Aid Abroad – APHEDA).

New Mandatory Asbestos Audits

Sep 10, 2019

A September 5, 2019 editorial on the website of The Asahi Shimbun, a highly respected daily newspaper in Japan, urged the Government to follow international precedents and tighten up laws to prevent exposures to asbestos-containing products incorporated within the national infrastructure. Recommendations proposed by a subcommittee of the Central Environment Council to the Ministry of the Environment will form the basis of an amendment to the Air Pollution Control Act and will mandate the introduction of asbestos audits prior to the commencement of building renovation or remediation work. All audits must be submitted to local authorities in order for permission to proceed to be granted. Japan banned asbestos in 2004. See: (社説）石綿規制強化 [(Editorial) Strengthening asbestos regulations].

Asbestos at the Supreme Court

Aug. 27, 2019

Mandatory monitoring of the Grand Court of Japan’s Supreme Court in October 2018 revealed illegal levels of airborne asbestos as a result of which use of the Court was suspended in February, 2019. During the construction of the Court, sprayed asbestos had been applied to large aluminium panels in this part of the building; an inspection of the premises a decade ago had confirmed the presence of the hazardous material. Japanese law stipulates measures to protect workers from toxic exposures including asbestos removal and disposal. With asbestos removal completed in July, the Grand Court will reopen in October, 2019. See: 最高裁大法廷にアスベスト、使用中止　実は１０年前発覚 [Asbestos in the Supreme Court, discovered 10 years ago, results in court closure].

An Unequal Trade

Aug 22, 2019

Just over 1% of the value of exports from Kazakhstan – the world’s third largest producer of chrysotile asbestos – to India in the first half of 2019 was for chrysotile asbestos. The bilateral trade is heavily weighted in Kazakhstan’s favour with its sales to India amounting to ~$623 million (twice as high as in 2018) and India’s exports worth just ~$136 million, 8.5% up on 2018. The imbalance in the trade and the fact that an acknowledged carcinogen such as asbestos is exchanged for tea and cell phones, warrants further scrutiny by civil society groups in India concerned about public and occupational health. See: Казахстан продает Индии нефть, а покупает чай и See: сотовые телефоны [Kazakhstan sells oil to India, and buys tea and cell phones].

On the Road to an Asbestos Ban

Aug 2, 2019

A new article on the website of Australia’s Union Aid Abroad highlighted the importance of the June 28, 2019 launch of the Cambodian National Asbestos Profile, a useful resource for decision-makers, workers and consumers working to safeguard health and safety by identifying the dangers posed by asbestos exposures in workplaces and communities in preparation for the implementation of national prohibitions. Speaking at the launch, Mr. Leng Tong, Advisor to the Ministry of Labor and Employment Training, said: “Cambodia is still allowing asbestos use because we do not have tools for checking this substance, but in the future, Cambodia will prepare to erase asbestos, to implement an asbestos ban.” See: Fight to Ban Asbestos Boosted in Cambodia.

Toxic Cosmetics Recalled

Jul 30, 2019

On July 27, 2019, Taiwan’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ordered recalls of two types of cosmetic products containing asbestos which had been manufactured by the Tainan-based TJ Group. Following alarms raised over the toxic products by the authorities in the US and Canada, the FDA inspected the company’s factory in Tainan and tested nine samples collected from the plant. The products which were found to contain asbestos were: City Color Contour Palette and Contour Palette 2 Bronze Highlight. See: Cosmetic products ordered off shelves over asbestos.

Toxic Talc

Jul 26, 2019

An online article on a Vietnam news portal highlighted the hazard posed by using Johnson & Johnson’s asbestos-contaminated baby powder and included details of research conducted in the United States regarding the risk to consumers as well as the increase in litigation by users whose cancers were alleged to have been caused by daily use of the powder. The author questioned how such a trusted company could have failed to address the situation and warned consumers that it was their responsibility to carefully choose which brands to use. See: Trong sản phẩm Johnson Baby có chứa Amiăng – kẻ giết người thầm lặng [Johnson Baby product contains asbestos - silent killer].

Occupational Asbestos Exposure

Jul 26, 2019

An academic paper found that in a cohort of 230 at-risk workers in asbestos manufacturing, construction, building demolition, tsunami clean-up and other trades examined, 16 (7%) had contracted lung fibrosis. Of the injured, 1 was a construction worker, 6 were tsunami workers, 6 came from the demolition industry and 3 from other industries. Sri Lanka has one of the highest consumptions of chrysotile asbestos per capita. The authors expressed a: “significant concern… [for] the safety of asbestos demolition workers and cleanup workers exposed to asbestos debris from major natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornados, typhoons, and tsunamis.” See: Prevalence of Asbestos-Related Disease Among Workers in Sri Lanka.

Toxic Talc at Sumitomo

Jul 24, 2019

On July 19, 2019, an appeals court in Osaka, Japan issued a claimants’ verdict in a case brought over occupational exposure to asbestos-contaminated talc used at a tire factory in Kobe City belonging to Sumitomo Rubber Industries. Damages of 100 million yen (~US$925,000) were awarded to seven former workers or their surviving families; all of the claimants, six of whom have died, had contracted the asbestos-related diseases mesothelioma, asbestosis or lung cancer. See: 住友ゴムのアスベスト訴訟、控訴審は全員勝訴　1億円の支払い命じる [Sumitomo Rubber's asbestos lawsuit, appeals court orders victory payment of 100 million yen].

Korea’s Asbestos Legacy

Jul 24, 2019

A commentary on the website of Korea’s Science Times considered the price ordinary citizens had paid for the use of asbestos in Korea and highlighted the disturbing fact that the vast majority (93%) of those who contracted asbestos-related diseases had been exposed non-occupationally. Half of the injured had received toxic exposures living near the asbestos mines in Chungcheongnam-do or living in an area in which naturally occurring asbestos was found. Considering the long latency period of asbestos-related diseases, the author of this text predicted that Korea’s asbestos epidemic would continue for decades to come. See: 불에 타지 않는 ‘석면’과 ‘살라만드라’ [Fireproof ‘Asbestos’ and ‘the Salamandra’ (a Greek mythical animal)].

Asbestos Workshop

Jul 22, 2019

On June 10-12, 2019, an asbestos workshop was held in Manila by Australian medical and scientific experts on asbestos and asbestos-related diseases and representatives of international bodies including the World Health Agency and the International Labor Organization. The participation of the Australian delegation, which included Professor Ken Takahashi, Dr Yuen Yee Cheng, Dr Kenneth Lee, Dr Anthony Linton, Dr Matthew Soeberg, Dr Ben Johnson, Mrs Jocelyn McLean and Ms Ari Yuen, was facilitated by the Asbestos Diseases Research Institute. See: Asbestos Training Workshop For The Philippines, 10-12 July 2019.

Phasing Out Asbestos Roofs

Jul 19, 2019

Since the beginning of 2019, efforts to change roofing consumption preferences in rural and mountainous areas of Vietnam, such as Mai Chau, Hang Kia and Pa Co, from asbestos to alternative products have been ongoing, spear-headed by the Farmers’ Association, the Provincial Committee for Ethnic Minorities in Hang Kia and Pa Co areas and (Australia’s) Union Aid Abroad – APHEDA via seminars and outreach initiatives to raise awareness of the health risks posed by asbestos. The Vietnamese Government pledged to stop using chrysotile asbestos roofing sheets from 2023. See: Vào cuộc thay đổi hành vi ngừng sử dụng Amiăng trắng [Changing consumers’ preferences for chrysotile asbestos].

Toxic Trade

Jul 18, 2019

An online commentary on an Indian news platform reported on two July 14, 2019 Sunday Times (Scotland) articles identifying UK-registered companies associated with the global asbestos trade and cited data regarding shipments of Russian asbestos to Indian ports, pointing out the hypocrisy that, despite the British asbestos ban, companies based there are still profiting from asbestos sales: “Import data reveals that in February, 2,128 tons of ‘chrysotile raw asbestos,’ worth $1.21m were shipped from Russia by or on behalf of CJ Petrow & Co (Pty) Ltd to the Indian ports of Nhava Sheva, near Mumbai, and Mundra.” See: British companies export ‘deadly’ asbestos to India, other countries from offshore offices.

Protecting At-Risk Populations

Jul 16, 2019

On July 15, 2019, work began on an “asbestos health impact survey” in the Gangjeong-ri area in South Korea’s Gyeonggi-do Province. One hundred and fifty local residents over 50 years old who had lived within a 2 km radius of an a abandoned asbestos mine for 10 years or more were interviewed by staff from the Asan Medical Center, Cheonan Hospital, Soonchunhyang University. This initiative was part of a program to minimize the effects of historical asbestos exposures under the country’s Asbestos Damage Relief Act. See: 청양군, 석면 피해주민 보호 [Cheongyang, asbestos damage protection].

Source of Toxic Cosmetics

Jul 10, 2019

Taiwan’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on July 9, 2019 that five cosmetic products – including eyeshadows, compact powder and contour palettes and a Jo Jo Siwa’s Makeup set sold by Claire’s Stores Inc. – identified in the US and Canada as containing tremolite and chrysotile asbestos fibers had been made in Taiwan. An FDA spokesperson Huang Wei-sheng named the Taiwan company, saying that most of its products were exported. Nevertheless, the firm was told by the FDA to recall all the toxic items from sale in Taiwan. See: Cosmetics containing carcinogenic asbestos made by Taiwanese firm.

State Asbestos Ban in India?

Jul 10, 2019

According to an online news report, on July 1, 2019 the Chief Minister for the Indian State of Bihar, Nitish Kumar told the state assembly that strong action was needed over the hazard posed by the construction of plants manufacturing asbestos products in the State and said that Bihar was considering a ban on the use of all kinds of asbestos and asbestos-containing products. Two asbestos factories are located in Bihiya, Bhojpur and are operated by Ramco Industries Ltd., a company headquartered in Tamil Nadu. See: Campaign ‘victory’: Bihar considers ban on asbestos, carcinogenic to humans.

Asbestos Substitutes

Jul 8, 2019

An article highlighting the popularity of asbestos roofing in Vietnam’s rural areas examines efforts to spread awareness of the hazards posed by human exposures to asbestos – quoting WHO data and Vietnamese technical experts – and the increasing availability and price differential of safer alternatives such as non-toxic polymer plastic fiber materials. The serious health hazard posed by the ingestion of rainwater collected from asbestos-cement roofs is discussed. See: Vật liệu thay thế amiăng [Asbestos replacement materials].

Asbestos Hearing in Korea

Jul 5, 2019

On July 3, 2019, an asbestos hearing was held at the Congressional office building in Seoul; the event was organized by the Ban Asbestos Network of Korea. In attendance were officials from 4 relevant ministries. Asbestos victims from all over the country, including a 29 year old male mesothelioma victim, gave testimony about the impact of asbestos exposures on their lives. To date, 4,000 cases of asbestos-related disease have been recognized by the Government. Asbestos was mined in Korea at 17 mines, including the largest asbestos mine in Asia. More than 10,000 schools still contain asbestos. See: '석면 질환' 잠복기 최소 10년 이상…피해자 증가 우려 [‘Asbestos disease’ incubation period at least 10 years ... Concerns about increased victims].

Industry Propaganda Offensive

Jul 2, 2019

The Vietnam Roofing Association, an asbestos lobbying association, has engaged in a media blitz, bombarding news outlets with “proof” that: chrysotile asbestos can be used safely in Vietnam since once incorporated into a cement matrix asbestos fibers cannot be liberated and no one in the country has died from exposures to chrysotile (white) asbestos. The purpose of this initiative was to delay government plans to outlaw the production and use of chrysotile-containing roofing sheets by 2023 as per the country’s asbestos roadmap. Interviews with Vietnamese experts supporting the asbestos ban are featured in the following article. See: Amiăng trắng - hại hay không? [Is chrysotile harmful or not?].

Indonesia’s Asbestos Landscape

Jul 1, 2019

Grassroots groups, including the Indonesian Ban Asbestos Network (INA-BAN) and the Local Initiative for OHS Network (LION), campaigning to prevent asbestos deaths in Indonesia have reported that asbestos usage is increasing and that the country now consumes 17% of global annual asbestos production, making it the world’s second largest importing nation. Efforts to raise awareness of the asbestos hazard and prevent exposures are ongoing and include asbestos outreach programs and collaboration with government ministries and relief organizations as well as participation in global asbestos eradication activities. See: Campaign to end asbestos in Indonesia intensifies as imports increase.

Progressing an Asbestos Ban!

Jun 28, 2019

On June 27, 2019, Cambodia’s National Asbestos Profile was launched in Phnom Penh by the Minister of Labour and Vocational Training (MOLVT) Ith Samheng in the presence of 200+ people from key ministries, trade unions employers and members of the Cambodia Ban Asbestos Network. The document, which was two years in the making, was the result of collaboration by 13 Ministries, trade unions, international experts and others; it highlighted categories of workers at high risk of contracting asbestos-related diseases and cited international evidence regarding the deadly hazard posed by asbestos exposures. See: Media Release. Launch of Cambodian National Asbestos Profile.

Asbestos-free Board Production Increase

Jun 28, 2019

Visaka Industries Ltd., India’s second biggest manufacturer of asbestos-cement roofing, announced on June 25, 2019 that it was increasing investment and expanding production in Tamil Nadu of asbestos-free boards under the brand name Vnext; Vnext products are used for wall panelling, dry walls, partitions, false ceilings and other building applications. The new plant, which will be completed in 15 months, will increase production of Vnext boards by almost 30% from 170,000 to 220,000 tonnes. Other Vnext plants are in Telangana, Maharashtra and Haryana. Vnext is marketed as “eco-friendly” and is exported to countries in the Middle East and Africa. See: Visaka Industries to commission ₹100 crore plant for Vnext products in Tamil Nadu.

Forest Retreat for Asbestos Victims

Jun 26, 2019

A “healing camp” was held on June 25 & 26, 2019 in South Chungcheong Province in the west of South Korea for 70 Korean victims of asbestos-related diseases and family members. The event, which was run by the Asian Environmental Health Center of Soonchunhyang University, took place in a forest resort. Participants were able to relax in a soothing environment, visit local tourist attractions and develop new techniques for managing their illnesses. Another camp will be held later in the year for asbestos victims from other parts of South Korea. See: 순천향대 천안병원, 충남도 석면피해자 힐링캠프 개최 [Soonchunhyang University Cheonan Hospital, Chungnam Asbestos victims’ healing camp held].

Asbestos and Lung Cancer

Jun 26, 2019

A medical commentary on a Vietnam website stated that a third of all cancer deaths in the country were due to lung cancer; while the incidence of male lung cancer mortality was decreasing, the incidence for females was increasing. The symptoms, types and available treatments for different forms of lung cancer were discussed and the role of smoking and passive smoking in the causation of the disease were examined. The author wrote that: “Exposure to asbestos also increases the risk of lung cancer, especially among smokers (3 times higher risk than just smoking).” See: Ung thư phổi-Nguy cơ mắc bệnh cao [Lung cancer - High risk of disease].

Costs Rise as Supplier Numbers Shrink

Jun 25, 2019

A circular dated June 15, 2019 from Eastwell Industries Ltd. in Maharashtra, India to its customers informed them there would be a 10% increase in prices of Asbestos Textile and Friction products because of the shutdown of asbestos mining in Canada, Brazil and Zimbabwe and the total reliance on Russian asbestos exports which, as a result of the shrinking number of asbestos producers and escalation of dollar exchange rates, have risen in price by 10-35%. Under the company’s name at the top of the circular it notes that it produces both asbestos and asbestos-free insulation and mechanical packings. Perhaps the price increase of the asbestos products will prove a financial incentive to phase out asbestos use in India? See: Letter from Eastwell Industries (P) Ltd.

Asbestos Scandal

Jun 24, 2019

A column by medical expert Dr. Liang Xiansun was published this week in Hong Kong's first free health newspaper; the text highlighted the hazard posed by human exposures to asbestos citing statistics and advice from the World Health Organization about the ubiquity and consequences of the unregulated and widespread use of asbestos both in the past and currently. The author pointed out that experts are concerned about future epidemics of asbestos-related diseases in countries which are still producing or using asbestos such as Russia, China and India. See: 石棉危機 [Asbestos Crisis].

Raising Awareness

Jun 19, 2019

At a workshop in Vientiane, Laos on June 18, 2019, training sessions and discussions took place at The Awareness Raising Workshop on the Impact of Asbestos and Asbestos-Related Diseases. The event was an initiative of Australia’s Union Aid Abroad (APHEDA) – in particular the Lao APHEDA team – and the World Health Organization, the Lao Federation of Trade Unions, the Lao Ban Asbestos Network (LAOBAN), and the Lao Ministry of Health and Ministry of Labour (see: picture from event). On June 19, asbestos awareness sessions were held in the city for student nurses and dentists.

Asbestos Public Health Risk

Jun 19, 2019

An article uploaded to the web on May 31, 2019 documented evidence accumulated by researchers in Thailand who identified chrysotile asbestos bodies (AB) in autopsy lung tissue from the general population. The levels found were, the scientists said, consistent with non-occupational asbestos exposures: “AB was detected in 48.5% of individuals sampled from the Thai population with a concentration of 0.19-14.4 AB/g wet lung tissue. AB was identified in the lung of a 1.5 year-old infant showing the potential for exposure at an early age. No significant correlation between age, gender or occupation and the asbestos burden was obtained from this study.” See: Asbestos Bodies Burden in the Autopsy Lung Tissue from General Thai Population.

Raising Asbestos Awareness

Jun 12, 2019

Efforts to protect Vietnamese citizens from toxic exposure to asbestos remain ongoing. Researchers have concluded that as 95% of asbestos-containing roofing sheets are currently being used by ethnic minority groups in mountainous areas, steps must be taken in these areas to raise awareness of the human health hazard posed by asbestos exposures and the existence of safer alternative products. Such an initiative has been launched by the IRECO Institute in collaboration with community groups in Hoa Binh and Son La Provinces in Northern Vietnam. See: Ngăn ngừa amiăng trắng vì sức khỏe cộng đồng [Preventing (exposure to) chrysotile for public health].

Occupational Asbestos Hazard

Jun 7, 2019

A Vietnamese e-magazine website featured an article on June 3, 2019 which highlighted the elevated risk of contracting asbestos-related cancers experienced by construction industry and automotive sector workers such as mechanics who were often exposed to asbestos at work. The battle to ban asbestos in Vietnam continues with civil society groups calling for the cessation of imports and use and pro-asbestos lobbyists from Vietnam and abroad opposing any and all changes to the status quo. See: 10 nghề nghiệp có nguy cơ bị ung thư cao [10 careers have a high risk of cancer].

Chrysotile Asbestos Offensive

Jun 3, 2019

A Russian language article on a Kazakhstan website detailed the triumph of asbestos forces at the May 2019 United Nations meeting of the Rotterdam Convention, boasting that the efforts of Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Syria, Zimbabwe, Venezuela, Pakistan, Cuba, India and Iran had defeated UN plans to curtail the free global trade in chrysotile asbestos; Kazakhstan is one of the world’s leading chrysotile producers. The text asserted that the EU’s support for action on chrysotile was “dictated by economic interests…” See: Казахстанский хризотил вновь победил и выдержал испытание Роттердамской конвенцией [Kazakhstan chrysotile again won and stood the test of the Rotterdam Convention].

Calls for Global Asbestos Ban

May 28, 2019

Chinese researchers working with colleagues from the UK and Canada on May 23, 2019 published a paper on the website of JAMA Oncology, a monthly peer-reviewed medical journal published by the American Medical Association, which called for a complete ban on global asbestos use and warned that: “rapidly developing nations such as Brazil, Russia, India, and China ‘face an impending public health crisis of an unprecedented scale’ because they continue to produce and use asbestos.” According to data from 2016, the four countries mentioned accounted for 80% of asbestos used worldwide. See: High Time for Complete Ban on Asbestos Use in Developing Countries.

Raising Asbestos Awareness

May 20, 2019

Speakers at a conference about “Asbestos and Community Health” which was held in Hanoi, Vietnam on May 16, 2019 highlighted the public health hazard posed by the country’s widespread and largely unregulated use of asbestos-containing products – especially roofing tiles and sheeting. The risk to ethnic minority populations living in remote mountainous areas was discussed. In 2018, the Prime Minister committed his Government to stop using asbestos roofing by 2023 and replace it with safer alternatives, some of which were discussed. See: Sớm loại bỏ amiăng trắng gây hại cho sức khỏe cộng đồng [Unregulated removal of chrysotile is harmful to public health].

Raising Asbestos Awareness

May 16, 2019

A workshop “Raising awareness of the harmful effects of chrysotile asbestos and asbestos-related diseases” was recently held in Cao Bang, a mountainous province in northeast Vietnam, home to many ethnic hill tribes; 95% of asbestos-containing roofing sheets are used in regions of Vietnam which are home to ethnic minorities. This event was a joint initiative of the Institute of Natural Resources, Environment and Community Development, the Action for Justice, Environment and Health Group and the Committee for Ethnic Minorities. On January 1, 2018, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc indicated that Vietnam would ban the use of this roofing by 2023. See: Cùng lên tiếng để bảo vệ sức khỏe cộng đồng [Together speak up to protect public health].

Toxicity of Chrysotile Asbestos

May 14, 2019

Research published by Chinese scientists in the May 2019 Journal of Environmental Science and Pollution Research evaluated the oxidative stress in chronic lung toxicity caused by the exposure of Wistar rats to Chinese chrysotile asbestos. The results “indicated that chrysotile exposure led to an obvious increase in lung mass and slowed the growth of body mass…[the] results suggested that chronic chrysotile pulmonary injury in Wistar rats is triggered by oxidative damage.” The authors of the paper expressed the hope that their data would lead to further research on the toxicity of chrysotile. See: Oxidative effects of lungs in Wistar rats caused by long-term exposure to four kinds of China representative chrysotile.

Russia’s Pressure Kills Asbestos Ban

May 13, 2019

An article in The Island – an English-language newspaper in Sri Lanka – on May 7, 2019 explained that the reason the Sri Lankan government failed to implement a national asbestos ban as promised was because of pressure from Russia, which supplied most of the asbestos used in the country. According to Hemantha Withanage, Executive Director of the Centre for Environmental Justice (CEJ): “Even if the government changes, asbestos will not be banned here due to Russia’s threat to ban Sri Lanka tea in retaliation.” The economic blackmail by Russia which forced the ban U-turn in 2017 was widely decried with Sharan Burrow of the International Trade Union Confederation calling it “culpable homicide” (Media Release, January 3, 2018). See (The Island article): Asbestos not banned due to pressure – CEJ.

Asbestos Truth and Consequences

May 7, 2019

An article uploaded on May 1, 2019 discussed evidence given by Vietnamese medical experts about the deadly health hazards posed to workers and members of the public who are exposed to asbestos-containing products which remain widely used and popular especially amongst poorer citizens. The World Health Organization’s Chief Representative in Vietnam Kidong Park recently reaffirmed that asbestos is one of the most serious causes of occupational cancer and that Vietnam is still one of the world’s largest users. See: Amiăng: Bụi siêu nhỏ, sắc như thuỷ tinh hít vào sẽ “cắt” vào phổi gây tổn thương, ung thư [Asbestos: Super small dust, sharp as inhaled glass will “cut” into the lungs, causing damage and cancer].

Urgent: List Chrysotile on Annex III

Apr 16, 2019

A letter sent on April 16, 2019 by the Bangladesh Ban Asbestos Network to the Minister of the Environment, Forest and Climate Change, other Ministers, Department Heads and diplomats has called on the Bangladesh Government to support the listing of chrysotile (white) asbestos on Annex III of the United Nations’ Rotterdam Convention at the upcoming 9th Conference of the Parries in Geneva; the discussions on chrysotile are expected to take place on May 7-10, 2019. Bangladesh imports of chrysotile have risen in recent years from 14,620 tonnes in 2015 to 22,180t in 2018. The Government is urged “to take action against this killing fibre at national and international levels…” See: Letter from Bangladesh Ban Asbestos Network.

“Realising an Asbestos-free World”

Apr 5, 2019

A meeting in the capital of Nepal on April 2 & 3, 2019 provided the opportunity for trade unionists and civil society campaigners from ten countries across Asia to consider measures to eliminate asbestos use regionally and globally. Commenting on the meeting, ITUC-AP General Secretary Mr Shoya Yoshida said: “The day of an Asbestos-Free World should come and it is up to us to decide when that day would come. Let’s campaign for an Asbestos-Free World to our members, workers, society and governments. This meeting has been a new step toward our goal of an Asbestos-free world.” See: Media Release.

Banning Asbestos in Vietnam

Apr 5, 2019

A feature uploaded to the online Australian publication Mirage News highlighted the work of Union Aid Abroad – APHEDA – in raising the profile of asbestos issues throughout Asia and working with grassroots groups to counter pro-asbestos disinformation, spread knowledge about safer alternatives and share independent, state-of-the-art information about scientific and medical research. The article discussed specific measures implemented in Vietnam to build support for government plans to ban the use of asbestos-cement roofing by 2023; 90% of asbestos consumed in Vietnam goes into the making of roofing sheets. See: Eradicating Asbestos in Vietnam.

Mesothelioma in India

Apr 2, 2019

The first case of death from pleural malignant mesothelioma thought to have been caused by domestic / environmental exposure has been reported in India, the world’s largest consumer of asbestos. It is believed that the deceased was exposed to asbestos brought home on the work clothes of his father and brother; likewise, the mother of the deceased has asbestosis from secondary asbestos exposure. Environmental asbestos contamination was also documented in the area surrounding the family home. The authors predict that an epidemic of mesothelioma will reach “alarming proportions” in the coming decades. See: A case from India of pleural malignant mesothelioma probably due to domestic and environmental asbestos exposure: a posthumous report.

Toxic Talc in Asia

Apr 2, 2019

A commentary on a recently published academic paper discussed the findings that “large quantities of body talc products are likely to pose a public health risk for asbestos-related diseases, especially for the cancers related to asbestos exposure.” Highlighting the lack of data regarding the impact of asbestos contaminants in personal care products, the authors call for “rigorous” testing of talc used in consumer products in India to ensure it is free of asbestos. See: Indian talc products contain “contaminated” asbestos structures, can cause cancer: Study.

Toxic Personal Care Products

Mar 28, 2019

A paper published in the current issue of the American Journal of Industrial Medicine documented the presence of tremolite asbestos in multiple samples of commercial talc products sourced from India and widely sold throughout Southeast Asia. The authors of this paper asserted that the use of these products was “likely to pose a public health risk for asbestos-related diseases, especially for the cancers related to asbestos exposure” and called for “further investigation to measure public health risks.” (These findings were contrary to those of the Indian Government which recently declared that tests it had commissioned found no asbestos in Johnson & Johnson baby powder.) See (paper): Asbestos in commercial Indian talc.

Asbestos Use by Chlorine Industry

Mar 20, 2019

The second issue in a two part series about the global chlorine industry has been published that focuses on the situation in Asian countries. Only 5 of the 60 plants in the Phase 2 study used asbestos diaphragm technology along with PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) membrane cells to produce chlorine. One of them was in Saudi Arabia and the other four were in China, where asbestos diaphragms were the most common in chlor-alkali technology until the 2000s. An estimated 18% of the world’s chlor-alkali capacity is based on asbestos diaphragms with 67% of the world’s chlor-alkali production using asbestos diaphragms taking place in the US. See: Chlorine and Building Materials A Global Inventory of Production Technologies and Markets Phase 2: Asia • Including Worldwide Findings.

Asbestos Pollution

Mar 10, 2019

On March 10, it was reported from Karachi that, as a result of charges laid in 2010, the Environmental Protection Tribunal had indicted the top executive of an asbestos-cement pipe factory in Manghopir for causing environmental pollution, and the director general of the Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) for failing to act. After a complaint had been made regarding pollution arising from the manufacturing operations and the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency had ordered enquiries to be made, no action was taken by the SEPA official. The proceedings were adjourned after the accused pleaded not guilty; the case will go to trial. See: Pipe factory chief, Sepa DG indicted for causing health hazard.

Toxic Talc

Feb 5, 2019

Government and industry specialists have admitted that Bangladesh lacks the capacity to test samples of Johnson & Johnson (J&J) baby powder for the presence of asbestos. Until such time as the authorities in India report on the tests they are currently undertaking, no action will be taken in Bangladesh to forestall or curtail imports. Sri Lanka has banned imports of J&J baby powder. India's drugs regulator ordered J&J to stop manufacturing baby powder in two of its factories until test results show it is free of asbestos. See: Bangladesh fails to test Johnson and Johnson Baby Powder for asbestos.

Ban on Baby Powder Imports

Feb 1, 2019

The Reuters news agency has reported that Sri Lanka has embargoed the imports of Johnson & Johnson (J&J) Baby Powder until J&J India, which exports the popular product to Sri Lanka, provides evidence that the baby powder is free from asbestos. The import license held by the distributor of J&J baby powder in Sri Lanka – A.Baur & Co – expired in December 2018 and will not be renewed until “quality reports from an accredited laboratory to ensure there is no asbestos in their products” are provided, said Kamal Jayasinghe, chief executive of Sri Lanka’s National Medicine Regulatory Authority. See: Exclusive: Sri Lanka halts imports of Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder pending asbestos tests.

Asbestos and Public Health

Jan 28, 2019

On January 22, 2019, delegates from communes in Mai Chau – a rural district of Hòa Bình Province in Northwest Vietnam – took part in activities to raise awareness about the public health asbestos hazard pursuant to plans for banning imports of chrysotile asbestos by 2023. The workshop was organized by the Provincial Farmers’ Association and Australia’s Union Aid Abroad; addressing the meeting were members of the local community as well as scientists from the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Science and Technology and the Center for Communication Development. See: Truyền thông nâng cao nhận thức về amiăng trắng tới sức khỏe cộng đồng [Communication to raise the awareness of chrysotile (asbestos risk) to public health].

Asbestos Awareness

Jan 14, 2019

From January 12 to 14, 2019 there have been a series of activities in Yangon, Myanmar to raise awareness of the asbestos hazard to workers as well as members of the public. Amongst the organizations backing these events were: the Confederation of Trade Unions Myanmar (CTUM), the Building and Woodworkers’ International, the Solidarity Center, the Asian Ban Asbestos Network (ABAN) and the Italy-Burma Foundation (Italia-Birmania Insieme). Officials from the Myanmar Government and World Health Organization participated, as did academics, trade unionists, technical and other experts from Myanmar, Italy and Japan. More soon. See: Group photo.

Asbestos Cancer in Mongolia

Jan 11, 2019

A new scanner for creating slide images of histology tissue specimens has been acquired by Mongolia’s National Pathology Center (NPC) under the 2018-2020 project entitled “Improving Capacity of Diagnosing Lung Diseases Associated with Asbestos Dust at an Early Stage” which is run jointly by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the NPC. According to a press report: “The scanner can detect asbestos-related lung disease, which is increasing in Mongolia according to recent studies, at an early stage using a microscope.” Although the Government of Mongolia banned asbestos on July 14, 2010, this prohibition was cancelled on June 8, 2011. See: Device for detecting asbestos-related lung disease at early stage presented.

High Level of Compensation Claims

Dec 21, 2018

On December 19, 2018, Japan’s Ministry of Health announced that in 2017 it had approved 1,054 claims from people who had worked at 879 companies who were victims of occupational diseases caused by exposure to asbestos. For the first time, one workplace – Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd.'s Nagasaki Shipyard & Machinery Works in southern Japan– had been responsible for more than 200 compensation claims in one year. Seventy of the claimants had already died when their claims were recognized. Amongst the eligible claimants, 126 had lung cancer and 72 mesothelioma; the rest were suffering from other asbestos-related diseases. See: 1,054 people from 879 firms linked to work-related diseases due to asbestos.

Asbestos Removal Program

Dec 19, 2018

On Tuesday, December 18, 2018, the Macau Water supply Company Ltd. announced that all remaining asbestos-containing plumbing in the city of Macau – an autonomous region on the south coast of China – would be replaced in 2019. This announcement had global import as China is both one of the world’s largest asbestos-consuming and asbestos-producing countries. Asbestos has been used to deliver water in Macau since the 1980s but is being removed because of the human health hazard. See: All plumbing containing asbestos to be replaced in 2019 - Macau Water.

Cancer Risk for Asbestos Cohorts

Dec 19, 2018

Researchers from Taiwan who established a nationwide retrospective cohort of asbestos-exposed factory workers during the years 1950–1989 and calculated the occurrence of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) between 1980 and 2009 found those who worked in asbestos manufacturing processes, including the production of asbestos cement and thermal insulation, and those in the shipbuilding sector were at “significantly increased risks of MPM.” It was recommended that a screening programme be created to enable the early diagnosis of MPM and other asbestos-related diseases. See: Clustering of malignant pleural mesothelioma in asbestos factories: a subgroup analysis in a 29-year follow-up study to identify high-risk industries in Taiwan.

Ban Asbestos Action Plan

Dec 4, 2018

A series of meetings, formal events and discussions in Laos during the week beginning November 26, 2018 progressed actions by government and civil society stakeholders to protect citizens from asbestos cancer following the signing on November 23, 2018 of an order by the Minister of Health to ban the import and use of chrysotile asbestos in Laos by 2020. Recent consumption of chrysotile asbestos in Laos has been very high at 1.2 kg/person, most of which went into the production of roofing materials. See: Strong support as Lao Government demonstrates action on preventing future cancers in Laos with launch of National Action Plan to Eliminate Asbestos-Related Diseases including a planned ban on chrysotile asbestos 2020.

Asbestos Ban by 2020!

Nov 29, 2018

At an asbestos workshop on November 28, 2018 in Vientiane, the capitol of Laos, strong support was expressed by stakeholders for plans to end the use of asbestos by December 2020, as per an order approved by the Ministry of Health (MoH) on November 23, 2018 to ban asbestos imports and use by December 2020. The event was organized by the Laos MoH and supported by: the World Health Organization: Western Pacific Region; the International Labor Organization; and the Australian Embassy in Laos. See: Strong support as Lao Government demonstrates action on preventing future cancers in Laos with launch of National Action Plan to Eliminate Asbestos-Related Diseases including a planned ban on chrysotile asbestos.

Asbestos Propaganda

Nov 22, 2018

In an interview with Erbol Nurhozhaev, chairman of the board of JSC “Kostanay minerals” – the only producer of chrysotile asbestos in Kazakhstan – Nurhozhaev is buoyant about the future and optimistic about plans to forestall UN action on imposing regulations on the global trade of chrysotile asbestos: “Next year they will again discuss the Rotterdam Convention [listing of] asbestos. Now we are working with the ministries on this issue. Karaganda scientists completed the research and concluded that with controlled use there is no harm from chrysotile asbestos. In this regard, we see the absolute support of the state.” See: «Мы будем расширять присутствие в Казахстане» [“We will expand our presence in Kazakhstan”].

Asbestos Alert!

Nov 19, 2018

On November 19, 2018 ban asbestos billboards went up in Vientiane, Laos warning of the dangers posed by the continuing use of asbestos-containing products. This initiative is backed by the Australian Embassy, the Office of the Embassy of Canada – formerly the world’s biggest asbestos producer – and Union Aid Abroad – APEHDA, an Australian NGO. According to an upload on the APEHDA facebook page, the objective of the new campaign is to “raise awareness for the public to the cancer risks of exposure to chrysotile asbestos and urge Laos to consider alternative, safer substances and products to prevent future lung and other cancers.” See: Cancer Prevention message for Laos a new feature on Australian Embassy Billboards from today.

Asbestos Fight-Back

Nov 13, 2018

Efforts continue to derail plans to ban chrysotile asbestos roofing products in Vietnam by 2023, as shown by industry and government submissions to a November 3, 2018 asbestos hearing of the National Assembly Committee on Science, Technology and Environment. Standard industry rhetoric calling for more data to prove occupational asbestos exposures caused disease and death was wielded by vested interests. A spokeswoman for Vietnam Red Cross seemed to support objections to the ban asking why Vietnam was banning chrysotile asbestos when lead and mercury remained in use. See: Roadmap to cease the use of chrysotile – Many unresolved issues.

Asbestos Industry Offensive

Nov 5, 2018

Last week, scientists from Kazakhstan presented evidence defending the safe use of chrysotile (asbestos) at an international conference in Karaganda, the country’s 4th biggest city. A resolution adopted at the meeting is being sent to six government ministries. Five thousand people are employed by the asbestos sector in Kazakhstan and the benefits of the industry are shared, speakers at this event alleged, by the 40,000 residents of Zhitikary City, where the mine is located, in the Kostanay region. It was claimed that no cases of asbestos-related diseases have been diagnosed in the country. See: Казахстанские ученые встали на защиту месторождения хризотил-асбеста [Kazakhstani scientists defend chrysotile asbestos].

Vietnam Asbestos Ban

Oct 26, 2018

A report on the website of the World Health Organization (WHO) details discussions on asbestos which took place during a technical consultation meeting in Hanoi to progress work on a roadmap to end asbestos use. Participants at the October 12 event included personnel from Vietnam’s Ministry of Construction and Ministry of Health and the WHO. “Vietnam as a growing middle-income country, should,” Dr. Kidong Park, the WHO Representative to Vietnam, said “be able to afford providing its people, including the most vulnerable, with safe asbestos-free roofing for houses. It’s now a critical time to take actions in realizing this important decision to protect the health of the people.” See: Viet Nam takes big leap in fight vs asbestos.

Banning Asbestos in Thailand

Oct 22, 2018

This paper examines the twists and turns on the road to banning asbestos in Thailand, highlighting the apparent inability of the National Health Assembly “to enforce implementation, especially when power and authority lie with state actors…” The authors conclude that to protect the health of citizens “participatory policy-making and effective governance of multisectoral action throughout implementation” is required to confront counterpressure from domestic and foreign vested interests such as that exerted by international asbestos lobbyists. See: Multisectoral governance for health: challenges in implementing a total ban on chrysotile asbestos in Thailand.

Ban Asbestos Protest

Oct 18, 2018

On October 16, 2018, there was a ban asbestos demonstration by members of the Indonesia Ban Asbestos Network (INA-BAN) in Bandung City, West Java, Indonesia with a rally in front of the Bandung Parliament to support draft legislation being considered this week by special committee 6 which would include asbestos as a dangerous raw material in Bandung building regulations. Six of Indonesia’s largest asbestos processing plants employing 4,000 people are located in West Java. See: Ina-Ban Tuntut Larangan Penggunaan Asbestos Masuk Dalam Perda Bangunan Gedung [INA-BAN Calls for Prohibition of the Use of Asbestos in the Building Regulations].

Relief Scheme for Construction Workers?

Oct 18, 2018

Within the context of a commentary highlighting multiple legal victories for construction workers in asbestos claims against the Japanese government and manufacturers of asbestos-containing building products, calls are made for construction workers to be provided relief within an existing national scheme that awards compensation to other sufferers of asbestos-related injuries. “It is time,” the author writes “for the government to work with other parties in the lawsuits to explore out-of-court ways of providing relief to the plaintiffs.” See: Provide relief for asbestos-linked health damage.

Medical Training on Asbestos

Oct 16, 2018

On Saturday, October 13, 2018, an asbestos medical seminar entitled Update Diagnosis of Asbestos Related Disease was held at Binawan University in Jakarta by the Indonesia Ban Asbestos Network (INA-BAN), the Local Initiative for OSH Network Indonesia (LION) and partnering organizations. During her presentation, Professor Jeung Sook Kim, from Korea, highlighted the importance of cooperation between NGOs and scientists in the ban asbestos movement. See: Picture of Session on October 13, 2018 at Binawan University.

Asbestos Industry Offensive

Oct 15, 2018

A Moscow online portal has uploaded news of a meeting that took place last month in Kazakhstan entitled: International Trade Union Conference on Chrysotile Asbestos and Safety. Representatives of the chrysotile industry from Kazakhstan, Russia, Belarus, and other stakeholder countries were regaled with industry propaganda and “commissioned science” about the “safe use” of asbestos, despite advice from international agencies that the only “safe use” of asbestos is no use at all. See: Kazakhstan Hosted International Trade Union Conference on Chrysotile Asbestos.

The Asbestos Hazard

Oct 15, 2018

An asbestos awareness training session in Nepal was held on October 6, 2018 by the Center for Public Health and Environmental Development (CEPHED). The fact that the meeting took place in Janakpur was significant as this area is one where asbestos use is very high. More than 60 participants were addressed by Deputy Mayor Mrs. Rita Kumari Mishra, Chief Custom Officer Mr. Hem Chandra Sharma, Janakpurdham SMC Senior Official Mr. Pradeep Sah, DYN Dhanusha President Mr. Dhiraj Sah, and Mr. Ram Charitra Sah, Executive Director of CEPHED. An asbestos factsheet, posters and booklets on asbestos were distributed to participants. See: Photo of Mr. Ram Charitra Sah, Executive Director of CEPHED addressing October 6 meeting.

Raising Asbestos Awareness

Oct 12, 2018

Organizers of an asbestos educational event entitled: Strengthening knowledge and skills to diagnose asbestos-related diseases which is being held in Jakarta, Indonesia on October 13, 2018 have confirmed that all the seats to the event at Binawan University have now been booked. Delegates will hear presentations by leading asbestos medical specialists including: Dr. Anna Suraya (Germany), Professor Jeung Sook Kim (Korea), and Dr. Aziz Ghani Ikhsan and Dr. Agus Dwi Susanto from Indonesia. Attending the sessions will be a range of medical and health practitioners. See: Asbestos Seminar: Update.

Ban Asbestos Mobilization

Oct 11, 2018

The Indonesian Ban Asbestos Network (INA-BAN) and The Local Initiative OSH Network (LION), in collaboration with Australia’s Union Aid Abroad (APHEDA), organized a two-day asbestos awareness workshop and strategy meeting in Jakarta this week. Representatives of three trade union confederations, eleven federations and non-governmental organizations learned about conflicting legislation in Indonesia regarding the use of asbestos products, the hazards posed to workers and members of the public by asbestos exposures and the ban asbestos policies of international organizations. See: Photo.

Solidarity in Ban Asbestos Campaign

Oct 1, 2018

In recent days, Australian trade unionists – working with organizers from Australia’s Union Aid Abroad (APHEDA) – have been meeting with leading campaigners in Indonesia’s ban asbestos movement to see first-hand grassroots initiatives being rolled out to raise public awareness of the asbestos hazard – including a visit to the city of Bandung to observe ban asbestos activities of the Local Initiative for OHS Network (LION) on Bandung Car Free Day and meeting members of the Serbuk Union and the Center for Indonesia Medical Students to learn about their asbestos outreach activities. See: APHEDA (Facebook) Photo.

Asbestos Industry Offensive

Oct 1, 2018

In response to growing ban asbestos mobilization in Sri Lanka (see: South Asia Asbestos Strategy Meeting), an industry lobbyist from the Fibre Cement Products Manufacturer’s Association wrote a letter to Sri Lanka’s Daily News which reiterated discredited asbestos industry propaganda alleging that: the use of white (chrysotile) asbestos is safe under modern, controlled conditions; once asbestos fibers are enclosed within a cement matrix fibers cannot be liberated; people living or working in premises with asbestos roofing were safe from toxic airborne exposures. See: ‘Chrysotile Conundrum’ Clarified.

Progressing Asbestos Bans in Asia

Sep 28, 2018

A media release issued today (September 28) by the Electrical Trades Union of Australia on behalf of an Australian delegation recently returned from a fact-finding trip to Asia commended the decision by the Vietnam Prime Minister to stop asbestos roof sheet production by 2023 at the latest and applauded the determination of Vietnam trade unions and grassroots groups for efforts to warn workers and consumers about the asbestos hazard and campaign for the adoption of a comprehensive national asbestos ban. See: Australian Delegation Commends Vietnam PM and Trade Unions’ Commitment to Achieving a Complete Asbestos Ban.

Another Court Victory!

Sep 21, 2018

On September 20, 2018, Presiding Judge Eguchi Toshiko of the Osaka High Court issued judgment in an appeal brought regarding a decision by the Osaka District Court which had held the Japanese government liable for asbestos injuries sustained by 33 construction workers. Toshiko found that the manufactures of asbestos-containing building products were also responsible for the damages sustained by the plaintiffs and awarded the claimants – including self-employed workers as well as employees – a total of 339 million yen (~US$3m). There are 15 similar lawsuits currently progressing through the Japanese judiciary; this is the 4th high court ruling to be issued. See: 大阪アスベスト訴訟 [Osaka Asbestos Lawsuit].

Post-Earthquake Asbestos Hazard

Sep 19, 2018

Three months after the June 18, 2018 earthquake hit the Osaka area of Japan, some libraries, community centers, classrooms, and other facilities remain closed due to collapsed ceilings and materials containing asbestos. A multipurpose center – home to the central library, the municipal welfare department and the central community center – remains shut without any plans for reopening due to the threat posed by damaged asbestos-containing products in the building’s ceiling. The situation is replicated in buildings throughout the prefecture. See: Public facilities still closed since June Osaka quake for fear of asbestos exposure.

Asian Campaign to Ban Asbestos

Sep 17, 2018

In September 12-14, 2018, trade unionists, asbestos victims’ campaigners and doctors from eleven countries in Southeast Asia met in Hanoi, Vietnam to build momentum for a regional ban on asbestos. Also taking part in the sessions were experts from Australia, the World Health Organization and Vietnam ministries. During the conference, it was announced that Vietnam would ban the use of asbestos roofing sheet in 2023. Sponsors of the conference included; Australia’s Union Aid Abroad (APHEDA), the Asian Ban Asbestos Network, the Asia Monitor Resource Centre, the International Ban Asbestos Secretariat and Solidar Suisse. See: Photo from South East Asia Ban Asbestos Meeting and also Facebook Video .

Another Court Victory

Sep 15, 2018

For the third time, on August 31, 2018 a Japanese court ruled in favour of construction workers injured by occupational exposure to asbestos when the Osaka High Court held the government and 10 construction material manufacturers liable to pay ¥302 million (US$2.7m) in damages to 27 former construction workers or their surviving families. In its ruling, the Osaka High Court recognized the government’s responsibility for health problems suffered by self-employed operatives; presiding judge Naoyuki Tagawa said: “If the state’s measures to regulate asbestos were substantially unreasonable, they should inevitably be considered to be illegal.” See: Osaka High Court orders government, 10 firms to pay ¥302 million in damages over asbestos exposure.

The Human Cost of Asbestos Use

Sep 15, 2018

A paper, which has recently been published, estimated that the occupational burden of disease (OBD) of asbestos-related diseases (ARDs) in Korea between 1998 and 2013 was: 4,492 deaths due to all ARDs and 71,763.7 potential years of life lost (PHYLL). The study showed that although asbestos use in Korea has been banned, the incidence of ARDs is increasing. The authors recommended that to reduce OBDs of ARDs in Korea, measures should be taken to achieve the early detection and proper management of ARDs. See: Occupational Burden of Asbestos-Related Diseases in Korea, 1998–2013: Asbestosis, Mesothelioma, Lung Cancer, Laryngeal Cancer, and Ovarian Cancer.

Asbestos Workers Unionize

Sep 15, 2018

In an election held on August 31, 2018 at the Everest Industries Ltd. asbestos factory in Kolkata, West Bengal, workers turned their backs on the pro-management trade union and voted to be represented by the Everest Industries Ltd Permanent Employees Union (Registered No 28210) which is supporting calls for the transition by Everest to an asbestos-free technology. There was strong opposition to the new union from management as well as local and federal politicians, some of whom were present during voting in an alleged attempt to sway the vote. At its first executive meeting after the vote, the union called for joint action by all India’s asbestos workers. See: Asbestos Workers of Kolkata have won the first battle.

Asbestos Remediation Ordered!

Sep 12, 2018

In a Judgment on August 14, 2018 India's National Green Tribunal mandated that Hyderabad Industries Ltd. undertake environmental decontamination of former asbestos mining areas in the Indian state of Jharkhand and pay compensation to individuals injured by toxic exposures. This landmark judgment ordered that a committee of government officials submit a plan by September 2018 stipulating measures which will be implemented to protect the health of nearby tribal communities. See: Tribal Communities Score Asbestos Clean Up [Victory].

Grassroots Asbestos Initiative

Aug 9, 2018

The most recent issue (April-June, 2018) of the quarterly newsletter published by the Bangladesh Occupational Safety, Health and Environment Foundation (OSHE) included a feature about asbestosis diagnosis camps for shipbreaking workers – known to be at high risk of occupational asbestos exposures – which were held in Chattogram, Bangladesh on March 30, April 13 and 27, and May 4, 2018. The ten person medical team, which was headed by Dr. Faizul Ahsan Shubro, examined seventy-five patients; tests results are pending. See: OSHE Newsletter (April-June 2018).

Vietnam’s Asbestos Phase-Out

Aug 6, 2018

Pursuant to the order by the Prime Minister of Vietnam that the use of asbestos in manufactured construction materials be ended by 2023 at the latest, grassroots initiatives are being implemented by groups such as the “Center for Consulting, Transfer of Science and Technology, Environmental Protection for Ethnic Minorities in Mountainous Areas” of the Vietnam Academy of Ethnic Minorities to raise public awareness of the asbestos health hazard in more remote locales. Simultaneously, government support is being considered for the construction of asbestos-free homes for ethnic minorities. See: Cần sớm ngừng sử dụng amiăng [Asbestos use to stop soon].

Asbestos Remediation in Schools

Aug 3, 2018

The Ministry of Education for Gyeongbuk Province, Korea has embarked upon asbestos removal work at 50 small schools during the summer vacation; the premises chosen each have relatively small amounts of contamination which can be remediated over a short period of time. Once the work has been completed, a monitoring team – composed of school officials, parents, external experts and representatives of private organizations – will inspect the premises. If there are findings of contamination, the removal process will be repeated until confirmation is received that the remediation work has succeeded. See: 여름방학 기간 학교 석면제거 [Eliminating asbestos at schools during the summer].

Asbestos Removal in Schools

Jul 23, 2018

During the Summer holidays, Korea’s Ministry of Education and Ministry of Employment and Labor have ordered that asbestos be removed from classrooms in 641 schools nationwide. As traces of asbestos have been found even after removal operations had been completed, the government has mandated that the steel frames that held the asbestos in place be dismantled. Strict measures to prevent the liberation of asbestos during this remediation work will be enforced. The process will be monitored by technical experts and parents to ensure compliance with safety protocols. See: Steel Asbestos Frames to be Removed from Classrooms.

Screening At-Risk Individuals

Jul 17, 2018

Under Korean legislation, the authorities are obliged to carry out periodic medical screenings of people over 40 years old who lived within one kilometre of asbestos mining or processing operations as well as people who lived near shipyards. On July 16-19, 2018, clinics will be held in various districts of Changwon City in South Korea’s Gyeongnam Province at which basic health check-ups will be conducted. If required, follow-up examinations including chest CTs and pulmonary function tests will be performed. See: 창원시, 석면피해 의심지역 주민 건강영향조사 실시[Changwon City conducts a survey on the health of residents suspected of asbestos damage].

PR Snafu

Jul 16, 2018

As staff at customer services for Singapore SMRT Corporation – responsible for public transport in Singapore – told a commuter that all train brakes contained asbestos in an email sent on June 20, 2018, the company categorically refuted the allegation stating that: “asbestos (banned in Singapore in the 1980s) is not used in any part of our MRT network.” The confusion was due to “human error caused by one of our customer relations staff putting his own words and sending the e-mail reply to a commuter too quickly.” See: SMRT refutes its own customer service email claiming that train brakes are lined with asbestos.

Our Asbestos is Safe!

Jul 11, 2018

In an interview published in July 2018, the technical director of Kostanai minerals, the largest chrysotile (white) asbestos producer in Kazakhstan, has asserted that the company has rebounded from the crisis of 2015-16 and that production levels are growing as international asbestos consumption increases. The director was optimistic about export sales to China, India, Sri Lanka, Uzbekistan, Ukraine, Tajikistan, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan and domestic usage in a country in which 50% of all homes are roofed with asbestos-containing products. See: КАЗАХСТАНСКИЙ РЫНОК ХРИЗОТИЛА СТАБИЛЬНО РАЗВИВАЕТСЯ [Kazakhstan Chrysotile market is stable and developing].

Asbestos Textile Production

Jul 9, 2018

A paper published by Korean researchers documents the high levels of occupational and environmental asbestos contamination generated by an asbestos textile factory in Indonesia. Previously, the textile plant for this company had been sited in Korea. The asbestos concentrations inside and outside of the factory in Indonesia were about the same as those measured in Korea in the 1980s and 1990s. It is recommended that a larger-scale study of various asbestos exposure sources, including asbestos cement factories, shipyards, and mines, be undertaken. See: Monitoring and Simulating Environmental Asbestos Dispersion from a Textile Factory.

Shipbreaking and Asbestos

Jul 6, 2018

The legacy of Taiwan’s shipbuilding history includes illnesses contracted by former workers caused by occupational exposures to asbestos. The case of one 74-year old worker from Kaohsiung City who had worked in shipbuilding for 20 years was recently reported; the patient was diagnosed with malignant pleural mesothelioma. His treating physician recommended that other at-risk workers have regular chest X-rays and seek medical attention if they have symptoms such as a persistent cough, chest pain or asthma. See: 醫病》長期暴露於石棉工作環境罹癌7旬翁獲百萬職災理賠[“Medical disease” after long-term occupational exposure to asbestos].

Ban Asbestos Demos

Jul 4, 2018

Korean, Indonesian and Japanese asbestos activists held protests outside the Russian, Chinese and Kazakhstan embassies in Seoul, Korea on July 3, 2018, urging these countries to end the mining of deadly asbestos. At a press conference, the demonstrators explained that the majority of asbestos exported from these producing nations is sent to Asian countries which have few, if any, regulations for preventing deadly exposures to workers or members of the public. See: 환경단체 “러시아·중국·카자흐스탄, 죽음의 광물, 석면 채광 중단해야 [Environmental groups “Russia, China, Kazakhstan, should stop deadly asbestos mining”].

Asian Victims’ Mobilization

Jul 2, 2018

This week a series of events is taking place in Seoul organized by the Ban Asbestos Network of Korea which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. Participating in this program are representatives from victims’ groups, campaigners and technical experts from Korea, Japan and Indonesia. Starting off the week, will be a symposium held at Seoul National University on July 2. From July 4 to 8, Japanese and Korean asbestos cancer patients and their supporters will have the opportunity for discussions in Seoul, Kwangchun and Pusan. See: Korean Poster.

Laos Calls for Asbestos Ban

Jun 29, 2018

On June 20, 2018, the Laos Minister of Labour and Social Welfare, Dr Khampheng Saysompheng announced that Laos intends to eliminate occupational asbestos-related diseases by banning asbestos. The Minister called for universal action to end asbestos consumption, highlighting the need for member states of ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations) to immediately prohibit the use of asbestos-containing construction materials. He said: “Urgent action is required to prevent the extended use of asbestos as a construction material and banning all forms of asbestos to protect lives, support safer economic growth and ensure social stability in the country under the National Action Plan.” See: Plans to end asbestos-use, related disease nationwide.

National Asbestos Profile

Jun 25, 2018

Last week, discussions were held in Phnom Penh to progress work on a draft of the National Asbestos Profile of Cambodia. Taking part were representatives from 13 ministries, trade unions, employers, the World Health Organization, the International Labour Organization and the Australian Union Aid Abroad – APHEDA. Research findings were reported from samples of building and friction materials that were collected in Cambodia and shipped to Australia for analysis. Over 50% of the items sampled contained asbestos. See: Photograph from meeting.

Two Countries: Same Battle

Jun 7, 2018

As Australia – a country which banned asbestos in 2003 – struggles with its own deadly asbestos legacy, trade unionists are backing efforts by grassroots activists to end the use of asbestos in Indonesia, where it is widely regarded as just another raw material. During a recent fact-finding trip to several Australian cities Subono, former asbestos worker now General Secretary of the Indonesian union Serbuk and committed ban asbestos activist, described the repercussions of ongoing asbestos use, noting that several former colleagues died from cancer while others were still suffering. See: The battle to ban the devil’s dust in our neighbours’ backyards.

Capital’s Asbestos Hotspot

Jun 5, 2018

For the first time, a cluster of environmentally-caused asbestos-related cancers has been found in the Japanese capital, according to data documenting four deaths between 2007and 2017 from the asbestos cancer mesothelioma within a 500-meter radius of an asbestos cement factory which operated from 1937 until 1980. The four deceased – 3 men and 1 woman – had never worked with asbestos but had lived near the factory for between 7 and 76 years. According to a local resident of the affected Ota Ward area, the atmosphere around the Tokyo factory was “always whitish and the dust was everywhere when the wind blew.” See: 4 Tokyo residents near former asbestos factory die of mesothelioma.

Victims at the Diet

Jun 5, 2018

On June 1, 2018, an inaugural event took place in Tokyo organized by the Japanese Network of Asbestos Victims and their Families which provided the opportunity for 50 victims (35 with mesothelioma) and 150 family members to meet with Members of the Japanese Diet – the country’s bicameral legislature – for an hour and with government officials for three hours at the National Diet. Ten victims too ill to attend prepared video messages which were screened at the conference. Key recommendations made included the need for improved medical treatment and more equitable compensation. See: 中皮腫アスベスト疾患患者と家族の会 [Mesothelioma Asbestos disease patient and family association].

Banning asbestos roofing!

Jun 4, 2018

On Wednesday, May 30, 2018, a workshop was held in Hanoi to consider the implementation of a roadmap to phase out the use of asbestos roof sheeting in Vietnam by 2023, as agreed last week by the Ministry of Construction. The session was conducted under the auspices of the Vietnam Union of Science and Technology Associations. Taking part in the event were representatives from the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Labor, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the General Confederation of Labor of Vietnam, international organizations and the Vietnam Ban Asbestos Network, as well as experts in occupational health and safety. See: Phải dừng sử dụng amiang trắng tại Việt Nam [White asbestos should be discontinued in Vietnam].

Ban Asbestos Campaign

Jun 1, 2018

A video trailer for a new documentary by the Local Initiative for OSH Network – Indonesia (LION) about the ban asbestos campaign in Bandung City, West Java which highlights the work to raise awareness of the asbestos hazard, not just for workers but for members of the Indonesian public, can be viewed online (See Video trailer: Asbestos Free Generation [Generasi Tanpa Asbes]). Other information on Indonesia’s ban asbestos mobilization can be found on the websites: http://inaban.org and http://apheda.org.au/lion-asbestos-indonesia; and in a recent facebook upload by LION.

Call for Asbestos Action

May 29, 2018

An online feature published on May 26, 2018, contrasts the widespread ignorance in India about the asbestos hazard with global mobilization to eradicate the use of this acknowledged carcinogen. “The purpose of this article,” the author says “is to draw the public’s attention to this very serious health hazard that pervades our cities adding further risks to the already polluted air we breathe.” Despite some positive steps taken in India, the continuing use of asbestos in roofing sheets, insulation and brake linings constitutes an ongoing risk to members of the public as well as to workers. See: Asbestos: Still around, still deadly.

Asia: Asbestos Update

May 25, 2018

The current issue of the Occupational Safety and Health Rights Newsletter produced by the ANROEV Network [The Asian Network for the Rights of Occupational and Environmental Victims] contains features documenting the regional grassroots mobilization on asbestos including: demands for a national asbestos ban from trade union activists in Pakistan and condemnation of Russian pressure on Sri Lanka to postpone planned asbestos prohibitions. Other asbestos-related items detailed were the launch of a campaign for urgent action on the global asbestos scandal and the publication of an academic paper which did “not find any significant effect on GDP following an asbestos ban.” See: Occupational Safety and Health Rights Newsletter.

Asbestos Victims’ Mobilization

May 13, 2018

In Japan, asbestos victims have established a movement to provide support by asbestos-affected individuals for others in the same position. The “Mesothelioma Peer Support Caravan (MPSC)” was founded in mid-2017; since then, more than 100 mesothelioma sufferers have been contacted at home or hospital or via group meetings. Thirty mesothelioma sufferers with scores of other asbestos victims are to meet with government officials on June 1, 2018 to explain the reality of living and dying with asbestos diseases. In addition, 3 Japanese mesothelioma sufferers have just returned from Korea where they met with colleagues from the Ban Asbestos Network of Korea (BANKO) to prepare for BANKO’s 10th anniversary event on July 3-4, 2018.

Kazakhstan Urged to Ban Asbestos

May 3, 2018

UN News reported that the United Nations has called for all countries, including Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Russia, to ban asbestos on health grounds because of the highly hazardous threats posed by human exposures. A new study by the World Health Organization estimated that annual global health care costs associated with asbestos exposure are between $2.4-3.9 billion excluding additional costs for compensation, court-awarded damages and social security costs. See: Эксперты ООН обратились к Казахстану с призывом прекратить добычу асбеста [UN experts appeal to Kazakhstan to stop asbestos mining].

Progressing Asbestos Ban!

Apr 29, 2018

In the run-up to International Workers Memorial Day a “brain storming session” took place in Vientiane to progress efforts towards achieving an asbestos ban in Laos – “ranked highest among Asia-Pacific countries in terms of asbestos consumption per person.” The event, which was attended by personnel from the World Health Organization, the Laos Ministry of Health, other government stakeholders, representatives of non-government organisations and development partners, considered strategies for implementing the National Asbestos Action Plan in order to end asbestos diseases. See: Anti asbestos workshop marks International Labour Day.

India’s Asbestos Debate

Apr 22, 2018

Most of India’s 8,000 railway stations are built with asbestos-containing products which are used as roofing, partitions and insulation. An asbestos decontamination program begun in 2008 is ongoing and all new railway stations are being constructed with metal sheet roofs and not asbestos-cement roofing. Asbestos manufacturers are alarmed by the phase-out and claim it is unnecessary; a spokesman for the asbestos lobby commented: “as far as we are concerned, health-wise there no problem in the manufacture, sale and distribution of what you call asbestos in India.” See: Railways are phasing out asbestos, a suspected health hazard.

Asbestos Phase-Out!

Apr 17, 2018

Railway authorities in Mumbai, India are undertaking replacement of asbestos-cement roofing at major suburban stations with metal ones that are environmentally safer, lighter and sturdier. New station buildings and platforms are constructed with non-asbestos materials and older premises are in the process of being decontaminated as part of a phased program of works. According to Manager S K Jain of the Central Railway, Mumbai, asbestos is discarded according to safety regulations: “We have directed the stores department to dispose of the sheets in a safe manner, so that there are no harmful repercussions.” See: Mumbai: Railway Stations To Have Environment-Friendly Metal Roofs.

Fall in Asbestos Demand!

Apr 13, 2018

According to a report issued by the Vietnam Roof Sheeting Association, the consumption of asbestos roofing in Vietnam fell by up to 35% in 2017 as consumers sought safer alternatives. The Association acknowledged the growth in ban asbestos advocacy and increasing consumer support for alternative products. The cost advantage posed by asbestos sheeting has been neutralized by the availability of cheaper steel materials also suitable for poorer people. Total asbestos roofing production in 2017 was 55.8 million square meters, equal to 66% of that in 2016. See: Roofing for the poor: shifting consumption patterns (Eng. translation of: Tấm lợp cho người nghèo: Chuyển dịch xu hướng mới).

Asbestos in Paradise?

Apr 11, 2018

Australian experts have issued warnings regarding the risk to tourists of holidays in backpacker heavens throughout Asia due to the continuing use of asbestos and asbestos-containing products in the region. China, India, Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam are amongst the top 10 global consumers with Laos having the world’s highest per capita consumption of asbestos. Professor Ken Takahashi, director of Australia’s Asbestos Diseases Research Institute recommends that travellers “avoid going near places where asbestos may be obviously present, the most typical of which is asbestos factories or mines.” See: Asbestos exposure, a hidden risk for budget tourists in Asia.

Asbestos Phase-Out in India

Apr 10, 2018

Maharashtra State has inserted clauses in development plans of 12 regions, including some on the outskirts of the capital Mumbai, stipulating that asbestos must not be used in manufacturing units on health grounds. The relevant clause is contained in regulations implemented for 2011-2031 under the Urban Development Department for the development of tourism and hospitality services. For now the clause only applies in “zones around sanctuaries but will be extended to other areas to make Maharashtra an asbestos-free State. Many factories are located near forest and sanctuaries in Mumbai, Pune, Kolhapur, Kalyan, Nashik, Thane and Aurangabad.” See: New rules to make State free of asbestos.

Asbestos Health Hazard

Apr 7, 2018

A short video accompanying an online article highlighted the dire hazard posed to Indonesians by focusing on the plight of Jakarta resident Sriyono, who as a result of working at an asbestos processing factory for over 20 years is now seriously ill. Sriyono, who was never warned about the asbestos danger, is the first Indonesian to obtain compensation from the government for his disease. In 2017, he received $4200 for his injuries. Interviews with a ban asbestos campaigner and a government minister contrast the huge discrepancy in approach, with the former urging immediate action to protect citizens and the later using government double-speak to uphold the status quo. See: Asbestos a time bomb in Indonesia.

Victims Win!

Mar 15, 2018

On March 14, 2018, the Tokyo High Court ordered the Japanese Government to pay compensation of 2.28bn yen ($21m) for 327 cases of asbestos-related diseases contracted by construction workers from the Tokyo metropolitan area; they had been seeking 11.8bn yen in damages from the state and 42 manufacturers. Judge Toru Odan did not find the manufacturers of asbestos-containing construction materials liable for damages even though they had failed to give proper warning of the asbestos hazard. See: High court orders gov't to compensate asbestos victims - The Mainichi.

Ban Asbestos Mobilization

Mar 9, 2018

On March 6 & 7, 2018, union representatives from across the Asian region called on governments to ban all forms of asbestos and condemned propaganda being disseminated by the asbestos lobby to forestall action combating the use of asbestos in Asia, where it was still widely used. In a joint communique issued by the ITUC-AP Regional Conference on Asbestos which was held in Jakarta, Indonesia, participants “confirmed that the elimination of the future use of asbestos is the most effective means to protect workers from asbestos exposure and … prevent future asbestos-related diseases and deaths…” See: Joint Communique on Asbestos: Realising an Asbestos-free World.

Progress: Asbestos Ban in Laos

Mar 6, 2018

Work on a Laos Asbestos Action Plan was progressed at a workshop in Vientiane on March 1, 2018 held by the Ministry of Health, supported by the World Health Organization and Australia’s Union Aid Abroad –APHEDA. The purpose of the meeting was to consider means to end the use of chrysotile asbestos, a substance widely used in Laos, in order to protect public and occupational health. In 2013, more than 8,000 tonnes of asbestos were imported by Laos making it “the highest among Asia-Pacific countries, in terms of asbestos consumption per person.” National usage of asbestos apparently increased by 240% between 2010 and 2013. See: Media Release: Laos takes steps to end asbestos.

Union Backs Asbestos Ban!

Mar 5, 2018

At a Karachi press conference, trade union leaders highlighted the human cost of deadly exposures to Pakistani workers with Nasir Mansoor, deputy secretary of the National Trade Union Federation (NTUF), condemning the government’s failure to act on the hazard posed by the use of asbestos in construction, pipes, boilers, fireproofing, textiles, cement products, automobiles and shipbuilding. Mr. Mansoor and NTUF President Rafiq Baloch demanded an immediate ban on asbestos use and urged that action be taken to destroy toxic stockpiles and minimize exposure to contaminated products within the country’s infrastructure. See: Union leaders call to improve safety conditions for workers: report.

Asbestos Limbo?

Jan 29, 2018

Anton Edema of the Fibre Cement Products Manufacturers Association of Sri Lanka has challenged the government to clarify the legality of asbestos use in light of proposals to ban asbestos as of January 1, 2018; according to reports, the prohibition has been “temporarily lifted” after commercial threats from Russia. Edema says the lack of clarity is preventing needed investment in the asbestos industrial sector which employs tens of thousands of people and provides 60% of the country’s roofing. Edema claims there have been no cases of asbestos disease amongst those employed by the industry. See: Give clear picture on Asbestos ban.

Banning Asbestos in Korea

Jan 26, 2018

A paper has been published as part of the Special Issue “Global Panorama of National Experiences in Public Health Actions to Ban Asbestos” detailing the five stages and many actions that were required before Korea succeeded in banning asbestos. An analysis of the role played by multiple stakeholders is undertaken. As in the UK and elsewhere “after the asbestos ban, those who had imported raw asbestos turned to asbestos removal and protection services as they had hands-on experience about where asbestos was installed.” See: The Asbestos Ban in Korea from a Grassroots Perspective: Why Did It Occur?

Asbestos Ban 2023

Jan 19, 2018

At the January 16, 2018 meeting of the Ministry of Construction, the Vietnam Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc announced – in a speech broadcast on national TV – that the use of asbestos construction materials would be banned by 2023 at the latest. He said: “The Construction Ministry needs a roadmap to stop using white asbestos. I remember that at National Assembly meetings, scientist Ms Bui Thi An raised this matter several times and the Ministry of Construction always obstructed it. I discussed this with Minister Mr. Hong Ha and he said that banning white asbestos needs a roadmap developed by the Ministry of Construction. The use of white asbestos must be stopped by 2023 at the latest in the construction industry.”

Asbestos Propaganda!

Jan 15, 2018

The headline of an article uploaded to the Sri Lanka Sunday Times website on January 14 says it all: “Asbestos isn’t always harmful to health,” it asserts; what follows is tiresomely predictable. Comments by the author – Prof. Ravindra Fernando (see: Chrysotile Asbestos Should Not be Banned) – have previously been used to substantiate industry’s attacks on the Sri Lankan Government’s plans to phase-out asbestos use. Citing outdated and discredited sources, Fernando asserts that: “chrysotile asbestos in its modern day high-density applications does not present risks of any significance to public or workers’ health.” See: Asbestos isn’t always harmful to health.

Ban Asbestos, Say Trade Unionists

Jan 9, 2018

Representatives of the National Trade Union Federation (NTUF) and other organizations are calling for a ban on asbestos to protect the public as well as workers from deadly exposures to a substance found in a wide range of products commonly used in Pakistan. These demands were voiced at a seminar entitled “Asbestos a dangerous mineral,” held on January 7, 2018 at the NTUF’s Karachi headquarters. Speakers informed delegates that evidence proved that toxic exposures took place outside as well as inside asbestos-using workplaces; there were, they said, no government measures to protect citizens from asbestos and no schemes to pay compensation to the injured. See: Traders demand ban on asbestos.

Asbestos Diplomacy?

Jan 2, 2018

A commentary by columnist Ravi Perera published on January 1, 2018 by Sri Lanka’s Daily News castigates the Russian authorities for “humiliating” Sri Lanka in the ongoing trade war which has seen a tea embargo implemented in retaliation for a Sri Lankan ban on asbestos imports. Admitting that “Russia is the land of towering figures like Lenin, Tolstoy and Solzhenitsyn; men who needed no lessons on social justice,” and that Russia had been “a friend” to Sri Lanka, the author decries the ultimatum issued by Putin’s Russia “to buy their asbestos, or else!” See: Tea vs. Asbestos.

India Going Green?

Dec 29, 2017

Last week HIL Ltd., a subsidiary of one of India’s leading building material conglomerates, announced that production of non-asbestos roofing sheets had commenced at the Kondapalli Plant in Andhra Pradesh on December 21, 2017. The “Green Roofing Solution,” is being marketed under the brand “Charminar Fortune”. Although it’s too early to say whether the use of asbestos-free technology will become the norm, data quoted in a Times of India business article may indicate a fall of asbestos consumption in India – from 396,470 tonnes in 2014 to 355,660 and 310,570 tonnes in 2015 and 2016, respectively. See: HIL commences commercial production of Non Asbestos Roofing Sheets.

Award for Ban Asbestos Campaigner

Dec 23, 2017

At a Seoul meeting attended by representatives of 20+ environmental NGOs and academia on December 21, the winner of the prestigious Rachel Lee Jung-Lim Award was announced as Brazilian engineer and ban asbestos campaigner Fernanda Giannasi. The event was hosted by the Environmental Health Citizens Center and sponsored by the Environmental Foundation and the Korean Federation for the Environmental Movement. The citation on the plaque for Ms. Giannasi noted her sustained efforts on behalf of asbestos victims in the face of threats and intimidation. Rachel Lee Jung-Lim was a ban asbestos campaigner who died of mesothelioma in 2011. See: 환경보건시민센터 보도자료 [Environmental Health Citizen Center Press Release].

Post-Ban Asbestos Mobilization

Dec 22, 2017

Yesterday (December 21, 2017) the Center for Public Health and Environmental Department highlighted the importance of efforts to enforce Nepal’s asbestos ban at a meeting in Kathmandu held in conjunction with the Department of Environment and the Department of Customs which was supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Ban Asbestos Secretariat. Presentations addressed a variety of issues including Nepal’s asbestos profile, asbestos sampling and testing, asbestos-related diseases and treatments and WHO initiatives. Recommendations addressed the need for: coordinated market surveillance, measures to minimize hazardous exposures and asbestos awareness capacity building.

Update: Sri Lanka Asbestos Ban

Dec 22, 2017

After last week’s declaration by Russia of an embargo on Sri Lanka tea, the country has deferred asbestos restrictions until further notice (see: IBAS Blog – Asbestos Endgame: 2017!) On December 21, the headline of a Sri Lanka newspaper reinforced the vital importance of this issue to the national economy: “SL awaiting Russian Govt. response;” 11% of all the country’s tea exports go to Russia. Commenting on the current situation Minister Dissanayaka said: “I am confident that we could convince the Russians [of] the correct position of this controversy and restore tea exports to Russia as early as mid January.” See: SL awaiting Russian Govt. response.

Asbestos Trade War?

Dec 17, 2017

In what is being described by unnamed ministerial sources as a “tit-for-tat” diplomatic offensive against the impending phase-out of the use of chrysotile asbestos in Sri Lanka, most of which is imported from Russia, an embargo on Russian imports of Sri Lankan tea has been declared; the announcement of the December 18 blockade on Ceylon tea has shocked diplomats and exporters alike. Hoping to end the trade dispute, three Sri Lankan Ministers will visit Russia this week to discuss the asbestos issue. See: Russia suspends tea imports from Lanka; three ministers to fly to Moscow for urgent talks.

Ban Asbestos Mobilization

Dec 17, 2017

On December 15, 2017, the Asian Ban Asbestos Network in collaboration with Australia’s Union Aid Abroad (APHEDA) launched an initiative to gather support for an open letter warning Asian governments and policy makers about the deadly effects of asbestos exposure in the face of a ruthless marketing campaign by asbestos lobbyists spreading disinformation and commercial propaganda to counter the continuing growth in ban asbestos support. Leading international experts are calling on scientists, researchers, doctors, asbestos victims and campaigners to sign this letter. See: Asbestos: Open letter to Governments and other policy makers in Asia.

The Price of Asbestos Use

Dec 17, 2017

An article in the Jakarta Post which appeared on December 14, 2017 documented the first case of an individual with an asbestos-related disease to be compensated in Indonesia. Forty-four year old father of three Sriyono, who contracted asbestosis after decades of workplace exposures, received $4,200 from the government; 15 similar cases are pending. A video uploaded to YouTube in conjunction with the newspaper article shows Sriyono speaking about his symptoms and the distress of his diagnosis. Indonesia is one of the world’s top consumers of asbestos. See: Indonesia's asbestos ‘time bomb’.

Asbestos Documentary Award

Nov 29, 2017

On November 26, 2017, the Japanese documentary Sennan Asbestos Disaster won the FILMeX audience award at the Singapore International Film Festival. The director Kazuo Hara accepted the award in person as he was present in his capacity as the FILMeX jury chairman. In October 2017, the film had won the Citizen’s Prize at the Yamagata International Documentary Film Festival in Japan and the Mercenat Award at the Busan International Film Festival in Korea. The documentary is 215 minutes long and took 10 years of research, filming and post-production to bring to the cinema. See: Indonesia’s ‘The Seen and Unseen,’ ‘Marlina’ Share Tokyo FILMeX Grand Prize.

Demand Grows for Safer Roofing

Nov 24, 2017

HIL Ltd, formerly Hyderabad Industries Ltd, has commissioned a new manufacturing facility in Timmapur, Karnataka, India. According to Managing Director Prashant Vatkar, given the potential for the growth in eco-friendly products, the company is looking to reduce the current 75:25 production ratio of asbestos-containing roofing material to asbestos-free roofing to 60:40 in the next three years. India is currently the world’s biggest market for asbestos imports with the majority of fiber being used in the production of building materials like asbestos roofing. See: HIL commissions Timmapur Plant.

Asbestos on UN Agenda

Nov 23, 2017

On November 27, 2017, schoolteacher Nirmala Gurung from Kymore, Madhya Pradesh, India will inform a UN meeting in Geneva, Switzerland about the deadly repercussions of European asbestos manufacturing operations in her town which even now remains contaminated with asbestos waste. She, like many others, has contracted asbestosis from environmental exposures. The companies which operated these factories were asbestos conglomerates from Britain (Turner and Newall) and Belgium (ETEX/Eternit). See: Madhya Pradesh village sees “slow death” of hundreds of asbestos victims caused by now closed British, Belgian subsidiary.

Nirmala Goes to Geneva!

Nov 21, 2017

On November 27, 2017 Nirmala Gurung will address a United Nations forum on Business and Human Rights in Geneva, Switzerland to highlight the ongoing hazard posed to communities living near asbestos factories. Mrs. Gurung, a former headmistress of a secondary school in Kymore, Madhya Pradesh, India is suffering from asbestosis due to environmental asbestos exposures caused by the operations of the British asbestos multinational Turner and Newall PLC and the Belgian ETEX company, both of which dumped asbestos waste on 600,000 square meters of land on which 3,000 people live. See: Environmental Exposure to Asbestos Kills Indian People. Kymore – A Slow-Motion Bhopal.

Government U-Turn?

Nov 21, 2017

In what is seen as an indication that asbestos lobbyists have succeeded in forcing Sri Lanka to reconsider plans to ban asbestos by 2024, last week Science, Technology and Research Minister Susil Premajayantha announced that a team of Sri Lankan experts from various ministries and institutions is being sent to Russia, the world’s biggest asbestos producing nation (and the biggest asbestos supplier to Sri Lanka), to learn more about chrysotile asbestos and its effects on human health. According to the Russians, asbestos can be used safely; independent experts say otherwise. See: Govt. will send experts to Russia to study chrysotile fiber: minister.

Asbestos Alert: China

Nov 20, 2017

A Chinese commentary timed to coincide with November’s global action on lung cancer discussed several myths about the disease and its treatment, and listed five causative factors including exposure to asbestos. “Occupational exposure to asbestos, such as [in] construction, asbestos mining, insulation processing, and vehicle brake repair can cause damage to lung tissue if inhaled. Numerous studies have shown that asbestos exposure significantly increases the risk of lung cancer.” See: 11月"全球肺癌关注月" 警惕肺癌的五大高危因素 [November “Global Lung Cancer Concern Month” alert five risk factors for lung cancer].

Asbestos Disease at the Shipyards

Nov 6, 2017

The first report has been published documenting the occurrence of asbestosis amongst workers from the Sitakunda, Bangladesh ship-breaking yards. Ninety-four workers were examined at asbestos diagnosis camps in July 2016 and January 2017 by the Bangladesh Occupational Safety, Health and Environment Foundation. Thirty-three (35%) were diagnosed with asbestosis. The authors recommend that an occupational health service be set up for ship-breakers and their families. See: Parenchymal asbestosis due to primary asbestos exposure among ship-breaking workers: report of the first cases from Bangladesh.

Asbestos: Natural Disasters

Nov 6, 2017

A study was undertaken in Sri Lanka to assess the incidence of asbestos disease in a cohort of 230 workers occupationally exposed to asbestos: 17.4% had radiographic abnormalities and another 7% had fibrosis. One of the most interesting findings was the prevalence amongst affected patients of demolition workers and post-tsunami clean-up operatives. The author concluded that: “there are significant implications for cleanup workers worldwide when dealing with asbestos debris after hurricanes, tornados, typhoons and tsunamis.” A poster on this research was presented at the October 2017 meeting of the Collegium Ramazzini in Capri, Italy. See: Prevalence of Asbestos-Related Disease Among Workers in Sri Lanka.

Victory at High Court!

Nov 5, 2017

A statement on behalf of victorious parties on October 27, 2017 in “construction asbestos litigation” before the Tokyo High Court said the ruling solidly established the government’s liability to compensate asbestos-injured construction workers, assigned asbestos manufacturers’ responsibility to compensate construction workers with mesothelioma, asbestosis, lung cancer and diffuse pleural thickening and ordered manufacturers to compensate self-employed workers. The text calls on the Government to create a compensation fund for construction workers and take immediate steps to resolve ongoing litigation. See: Statement of plaintiffs, their attorneys and supporters on the Tokyo High Court ruling on October 27, 2017.

Calls for Asbestos Relief Scheme

Nov 3, 2017

An editorial published on November 2, 2017 called on the Japanese Government to “craft a new program to provide relief to the victims, many of whom are aging and ailing” in the wake of the country’s first high court ruling on asbestos damages to construction workers, thousands of whom have died from occupational diseases. The landmark verdict handed down on October 27, 2017 in Tokyo ordered the Government and four building material makers to pay compensation to 62 plaintiffs; this decision reversed a district court ruling that had absolved the government and firms of liability. See: Addressing workers’ health damage from asbestos.

Grassroots Activism on Asbestos!

Nov 3, 30217

A week of mobilization by grassroots campaigners in Indonesia has raised awareness of the twin hazards posed by exposures of children to leaded paints and asbestos. Activities undertaken in Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Bekasi, Yogyakarta and Denpasar were scheduled to take place during International Week of Lead Hazard Prevention 2017 (October 22-28 2017). Despite the existence of some asbestos regulations and standards and the classification of asbestos as a Hazardous (B3) substance, the use of asbestos is still permitted in Indonesia for multiple purposes such as roofing for primary schools. See: Stop the Use of Lead Paint and Asbestos Roofs to Protect the Future of Indonesian Children.

Legal Precedent!

Oct 27, 2017

A major victory was achieved today for construction workers in a verdict handed down by the Tokyo High Court which recognized the negligence of the government and asbestos manufacturers for injuries caused by asbestos exposures at construction sites. The decision of the Presiding Judge Atsuo Nagano overturned the ruling of the Yokohama District Court, which had dismissed the plaintiffs’ claim. While several asbestos cases have been won against the government, this is only the 3rd against manufacturers and the first such High Court decision. See: 石綿訴訟、国とメーカー４社に賠償命令…控訴審 [Asbestos lawsuit, orders for compensation to 4 companies and manufacturers ... appeal trial].

Progress Towards a Ban!

Oct 26, 2017

At a meeting of trade union personnel, medical professionals, media specialists and campaigners held on October 23, 2017 in the capital of Laos, Vientiane, it was decided to form an information and advocacy network that would implement initiatives to raise occupational and public awareness of the asbestos hazard and work towards achieving a national asbestos ban. The name of the new group is LaoBan and it will collaborate with similar organizations in the region including: Ina-Ban (Indonesia), BANJAN (Japan), BANKO (Korea), T-BAN (Thailand), VN-BAN (Vietnam), etc. See: picture of Vientiane meeting.

Landmark Ruling in Yokohama

Oct 25, 2017

On October 24, 2017, the Yokohama District Court awarded 61 asbestos-injured construction workers or surviving family members a total of ¥306 million (US$2.7m) compensation, from the Japanese government and two asbestos manufacturers of construction materials, for occupational exposures to asbestos. Judge Yuko Otake’s verdict found that the Japanese government had failed to enact adequate asbestos regulations and that Nozawa Corporation and Nichias Corporation had neglected to warn their workers of the asbestos hazard. See: 61 plaintiffs seek ¥1.7 billion from state and materials makers for asbestos ills, some to share ¥306 million.

Asbestos Action

Oct 25, 2017

During the World Health Organization’s “International lead poisoning prevention week of action” from October 22 to 28, 2017, campaigners in Indonesia are highlighting the double risks to children of the presence of lead-containing paint and asbestos-containing products in their schools. Members of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have issued an appeal for government action after a study by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry and NGOs highlighted the human health threats of these toxic products. See: Bahan Berbahaya Beracun - Hentikan Pakai Cat Bertimbal dan Asbes [Hazardous Materials – Stop Using Leaded Paint and Asbestos].

Construction Workers Victory!

Oct 24, 2017

On October 24, a verdict by the Yokohoma District Court awarded damages against the Japanese Government and 2 major asbestos product manufacturers to construction workers injured by occupational asbestos exposures. In previous cases, 6 other courts ordered the Government to compensate construction workers; two district courts awarded damages against manufacturers. On October 27, the Tokyo High Court will hand down its verdict in another asbestos action by construction workers that was originally rejected by the Yokohama District Court. See: 国とメーカーに賠償命令　建設アスベスト神奈川訴訟　企業責任、認定２例目 [Kanagawa court holds companies responsible for asbestos exposures to construction workers].

Ban Asbestos Action

Oct 24, 2017

A workshop entitled “Risk of Asbestos in Engineering” was held at the Engineering and Technology Training Center in Phonm Penh, Cambodia on October 18, 2017 by the Board of Engineering of Cambodia, Cambodia’s Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training and Australia's Union Aid Abroad (APHEDA). The event was facilitated by Phillip Hazelton, APHEDA’s regional campaigner and was supported by trade unions, non-government organizations and government agencies; the tagline of the event was: Fighting together to eliminate asbestos from Cambodia. See: Footage of Cambodian TV coverage of this meeting.

Film: Sennan Asbestos Disaster

Oct 23, 2017

A Japanese documentary film entitled Sennan Asbestos Disaster by director Kazuo Hara won the Citizen’s Prize at the Yamagata International Documentary Film Festival earlier this month (October 2017) and on October 22 won the Mercenat Award at the Busan International Film Festival in Korea. The film will be screened at other festivals in the coming months. It is 215 minutes long and took 10 years of research, filming and post-production to bring to the cinema. See press release: Sennan Asbestos Disaster.

Achieving Total Asbestos Ban

Oct 21, 2017

The steps needed to achieve a total ban on asbestos in Japan and conclusions drawn from the process are described in a paper just published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. The authors described missed opportunities and delays and highlighted the impact of the asbestos scandal – known as “the Kubota Shock” – which propelled asbestos onto the national agenda. Also mentioned are the Global Asbestos Congress 2000 (Brazil) and the Global Asbestos Congress 2004 (Japan) which signified the growth of concern regarding the asbestos hazard around the world. See: Experience of Japan in Achieving a Total Ban on Asbestos.

Banning Asbestos: the Process

Oct 19, 2017

A new academic paper details the dynamics and social, economic, and scientific forces which achieved Taiwan’s ban asbestos legislation; as of January, 2018 a total ban will be in place. Amongst the driving forces discussed is the work of “visionary scholars and healthcare professionals,” growing environmental awareness, transnational networking by health activists and the decline of the asbestos industrial sector. To effectively protect Taiwan citizens from the asbestos hazard, the ban must be accompanied, the authors write, by a “thorough long-term healthcare plan for the neglected victims of asbestos-related diseases…” See: Transnational Dynamics Amid Poor Regulations: Taiwan’s Asbestos Ban Actions and Experiences.

Surge in Asbestos-Free Development

Oct 19, 2017

The development of Sri Lanka’s red clay sector is surging with domestic and foreign demand exceeding supply. According to Sri Lanka’s Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishad Bathludeen: “Our clay is high quality and is in demand for roof tile making due to the asbestos import ban starting next year (2018)… We sent 30 Sri Lankan red clay industrialists for technological training to Belgium and China.” Some of Sri Lankan asbestos-free red tile production is now being exported to the UK; the Sri Lankan government is supporting initiatives to help cut production costs and improve the quality of output. See: New support for Sri Lanka porcelain, red clay and glass.

Asbestos Hazard: Bus Drivers

Oct 16, 2017

The mesothelioma death in December 2010 of a bus driver employed by the Nishitetsu company has been certified as occupationally caused due to workplace exposures to asbestos present in the charcoal gas generating furnaces used in buses during and after World War II. As of May 1948, there were 5,000 "charcoal buses"; they were phased out in the early 1950s. The deceased, who started work at Nishitetsu in 1947 in Omuta City, Japan inspected his vehicle every morning before starting work. Prior to this case, the asbestos hazard to bus drivers had not been recognized by the authorities. See: 石綿西鉄バス元車掌も労災認定　木炭バスで吸引 [Asbestos: Nishitetsu bus conductor died from occupational exposure].

Asbestos in Schools

Oct 14, 2017

Yesterday (October 13, 2017), Korean lawmakers grilled Environment Minister Kim Eun-kyung about the government’s failure to address widespread asbestos contamination of small – under 1,000 square meters in size – educational premises and after-school institutions, 53% of which contain asbestos building products. Defending the Government, the Minister said that efforts were being made to retrofit buildings used by children to ensure that they were free of asbestos. A study conducted in July found that 47 out of the 53 schools buildings inspected contained asbestos. See: Gov't asbestos management draws fire from lawmaker.

Asbestos: Fake News!

Oct 9, 2017

The participation of David Bernstein in a Hanoi conference on October 6, 2017 was reported by a Vietnamese newspaper, along with his comments that “white asbestos is not cancerous like the blue and brown varieties.” Activists in Vietnam have exposed this report as false saying that Bernstein came to Vietnam some years ago and that the Hanoi asbestos meeting on October 6 affirmed “the harm of white Asbestos to human health…” See: Xem xét thận trọng, khách quan, khoa học, toàn diện về vấn đề Amiang trắng [An objective and scientific consideration of white Asbestos].

Asbestos Hotlines!

Oct 4, 2017

Today and tomorrow (October 4 & 5), Japan’s Association of Asbestos Victims and their Families in cooperation with legal professionals are holding a free telephone consultation service to provide support and advice to asbestos victims. This service, which is always over-subscribed, will be even more so in light of advice issued on October 2, 2017 by the Ministry of Labor urging asbestos victims to sue the Government for compensation!

See Photo: Abestos hotline service.

Ministry Encourages Victims’ Lawsuits

Oct 2, 2017

Today (October 2, 2017), a spokesperson for Japan’s Labor Ministry said it is encouraging former asbestos plant workers with occupational diseases and the families of deceased workers to file lawsuits against the government so that compensation payouts can be made to thousands of asbestos claimants eligible to receive them after a 2014 Supreme Court decision found the government responsible for asbestos exposures affecting plant workers in Osaka Prefecture. By the end of last month ¥2.1 billion (US$18 million+) had been paid out to 236 plaintiffs; another 197 claims are being processed. See: Former workers exposed to asbestos urged to sue Japanese government to claim damages.

Demands for Asbestos Ban

Oct 2, 2017

A press release issued at the end of last week by the Occupational and Environmental Health Network of India (OEHNI) called for an investigation of an Indian company which has contracted to annually import 50,000 tonnes of asbestos from Zimbabwe. “The government of India has,” the release says “responsibility to protect its citizens through unilateral action to ban mining, import, production, sale and consumption of all materials based on asbestos with immediate effect.” OEHNI “severely criticises the unknown Indian company for their malicious intentions” and appealed to Zimbabwe to close all asbestos mines. See: Press Release – An Indian company to buy 50,000 tonnes of ‘Cancer’.

Asbestos-free “Game Changer”

Sep 29, 2017

Indian building materials firm HIL Ltd, formerly Hyderabad Industries Ltd, is a leading producer of asbestos cement sheets for roofing, deriving 70% of its revenue from this product line. Looking towards a likely change in consumer demand, the company has stepped up research and development efforts for asbestos-free roofing. “We are,” said Dhirup Roy Choudhary, HIL’s MD and CEO, “at an advanced stage of developing a new product which will be a game-changer in non-asbestos roofing.” A successful prototype has been achieved and a product is likely by April 2018. See: HIL to launch ₹130-cr pipes, fittings plant in April.

Progress: Asbestos Ban

Sep 27, 2017

The State Government of Bangalore, India has approved new plans for resorts around wildlife sanctuaries as part of a drive to develop tourism and hospitality services centered around six tiger reserves in Bangalore. The new plans are quite precise about the type of materials that can be used and the different restrictions on private land and nature reserves – including a blanket ban on the usage of asbestos in all the resorts. Perhaps now that Bangalore has taken this step to protect tigers and tourists it might also enact a wider asbestos ban to protect Bangalore’s own population – some 8.5 million citizens – from deadly asbestos exposures. See: State Approves Plan for Resorts Around Wildlife Sanctuaries.

Asbestos: Update

Sep 24, 2017

A Nepalese newspaper article reported a meeting last week in Kathmandu during which regional experts, including representatives of the World Health Organization and the Asian Ban Asbestos Network, and local campaigners emphasized the need to enforce Nepal’s prohibitions banning asbestos use, with Ram Charitra Sah, director of the Center for Public Health and Environmental Development, revealing that despite these prohibitions the import, sale and use of asbestos products continues. Measures for ensuring safe disposal of asbestos waste were called for to prevent further toxic exposures. See: फाइबरयुक्त धातु प्रयोग रोक्न जोड [Emphasizing the need to prevent [asbestos] fiber use.

Priority: Asbestos in Schools

Sep 22, 2017

At a press conference on September 21, 2017, Korea’s Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon called for immediate measures to ensure that Korea’s schools were asbestos-free after reports that contamination had been found in many classrooms even after remediation work had been carried out. During a weekly government policy coordination meeting, the PM announced that: “The education, labor and environment ministries are jointly carrying out an inspection into whether asbestos still remains at 1,226 schools that have carried out asbestos-removal projects, and asbestos was found in many of them.” See: PM calls for measures to ensure school classrooms free of asbestos.

Asbestos Mobilization

Sep 21, 2017

Work by ban asbestos campaigners in Nepal was reinforced on September 18 and 19 with the holding of asbestos activities in the capital, Kathmandu. The events, which were supported by Nepal’s Center for Public Health and Environment Development, the Asian Ban Asbestos Network (ABAN), the Asian Network for the Rights of Occupational and Environmental Victims (ANROEV) and other partnering groups, were attended by leading campaigners from throughout the region, including delegates from Nepal, Japan, Hong Kong, Korea, India, Indonesia and Australia. See: Picture of delegates.

Asbestos-free Roofing

Sep 21, 2017

According to Sri Lanka’s Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishard Bathiudeen, domestically produced red clay roofing tiles are now in high demand due to national asbestos prohibitions set to come into effect in 2018 which will ban all asbestos imports. This restriction has led to an increase in the production of clay roofing tiles, some of which are exported to the UK. Sri Lanka’s ceramic and glass industries employ 55,000 workers. In 2015 and 2016, Sri Lanka imported 34,505 and 47,379 tonnes of asbestos fiber, respectively. See: Red clay roof tiles in high demand as asbestos ban looms.

International Solidarity

Sep 13, 2017

A letter signed by global leaders in the fight for asbestos justice was submitted to the Yokohama District Court on September 7, 2017 and the Tokyo High Court on September 13 urging them “to support the rights of Japanese asbestos victims and issue a judgment which is fair to them and their families.” The letter relates to lawsuits brought by claimants and families regarding toxic exposures to asbestos during employment in the construction sector. The main defendants in these cases are the government and former manufacturers of asbestos-containing construction materials. See: International Joint Letter to Tokyo and Yokohama Courts.

Flood Reconstruction

Sep 12, 2017

The Occupational & Environmental Health Network of India (OEHNI) has highlighted the error of using asbestos-cement building products in flood reconstruction in a letter to the Chief Minister of Gujarat saying: “Generally it is seen that while rehabilitating the villages asbestos cement sheets are being used as roofing which can bring negative results for the society in the long run.” Urging the Minister to carry out rehabilitation necessitated by widespread damage from the flooding in July, OEHNI National Coordinator Jagdish Patel points out that Gujarat can set a precedent for other states by banning asbestos use in the reconstruction. See: OEHNI Letter to Gujarat Chief Minister.

Ban Asbestos: India

Sep 8, 2017

Following discussion of a Supreme Court ruling which upheld the constitutionality of state asbestos bans in Brazil, the author of this commentary Dr Gopal Krishna called for action by governments in India, Russia and China to protect citizens from the asbestos hazard by banning asbestos production and use. According to data retrieved from a 2011 census, up to 20% of people in India’s urban areas live and work under asbestos roofs; exposures to these toxic products has led to an increased cancer incidence. Even yoga centers, like the one at Jawaharlal Nehru University, are located in asbestos buildings. See: India must ban asbestos urgently.

Propaganda Offensive

Sep 6, 2017

A feature disseminated by Pravda – formerly the official newspaper of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union – detailed discussions on August 25 at a pro-asbestos roundtable entitled “Chrysotile Asbestos” in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The event was hosted by the Chrysotile Association, an organization dedicated to “promoting and protecting chrysotile products.” The speakers included representatives of vested interests who denounced the global ban asbestos campaign as uninformed and ill-intentioned. “There is no epidemic of [asbestos] cancer” in former Soviet countries, said multiple speakers. See: Страшилки про асбест. Мифы и правда [Horror stories about asbestos. Myths and truths].

Occupational Asbestos Hazard

Sep 6, 2017

AN analysis of 6,916 Japanese workers diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases (ARDs) between 2008 and 2013 was undertaken to identify groups at risk of asbestos exposures, to facilitate the development of effective health surveillance strategies. Unsurprisingly, workers from the construction industry were found to have a high risk of ARDs; these workers “are still being exposed to asbestos during maintenance, renovation, and asbestos removal from buildings with asbestos containing products.” See: Compensation for Asbestos-Related Diseases in Japan: Utilization of Standard Classifications of Industry and Occupations.

Parents’ Asbestos Protest

Sep 5, 2017

Hundreds of parents protested the asbestos hazard posed to children studying at Gwacheon Gumun Elementary School by a massive reconstruction project at an apartment complex in Gwacheon city in the Seoul National Capital Area. On August 28, the Environment and Citizens’ Center (the Center) held a press conference to quantify the potential asbestos fallout from the rebuilding project. The contents of survey reports and videos of the contentious project were presented to the parents by health and safety experts from the Center. See: 과천 엄마들 "재건축에 초등학교로 석면 들어와" 기자회견 [Gwacheon mothers “Asbestos enters elementary school in reconstruction” press conference].

Asbestos-free Bengal?

Aug 29, 2017

A ruling handed down in the Calcutta High Court could set a precedent which would result in orders to remove asbestos throughout West Bengal says ban asbestos campaigner Dr Gopal Krishna. The order mandated the removal of asbestos-containing roofing material from Court buildings. “Given the fact that health is a state subject,” writes Krishna, the “Government of West Bengal faces a logical compulsion to stop manufacturing, procurement and use of all forms of asbestos including white asbestos to protect the residents of West Bengal…” See: Calcutta High Court’s Order Paves Way For Asbestos Free West Bengal & India.

Court Removes Asbestos

Aug 16, 2017

Acting Chief Justice Nishiata Mhatre and Justice Tapabrata Chakraborty have this week directed that asbestos-containing sheeting on the roofs of at least 10 courtrooms, the portico, 5 bar association rooms, the Bar Library, the study of the Bar Association and the department of the first assistant registrar in Kolkata’s High Court be removed. The toxic building material will be replaced with safer alternatives according to the orders handed down by the justices. This action has been taken after litigation was brought in 2016 by local resident Ashis Mitra. See: No more asbestos in HC: Acting Chief Justice.

Ban Asbestos Dialogue

Jul 26, 2017

Three days of asbestos awareness events began today in Jakarta organized by local campaigning groups in partnership with Australia’s Union Aid Abroad, the International Ban Asbestos Secretariat, the Asian Ban Asbestos Network and others. The speakers at today’s trade union workshop at the Legal Aid Institute include Associate Prof. Dr Yv Viger (Canada) and campaigners M. Darisman (Indonesian Ban Asbestos Network) and Bernawan Sinaga, from the Ministry of Manpower. In the coming days, events focusing on the medical management of asbestos-related diseases and the development of a national ban asbestos road map will also take place. See: Photograph of Jakarta seminar July 26, 2017.

Court Action against Regulators

Jul 26, 2017

The Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB) has withdrawn a certificate which had allowed asbestos factory units belonging to companies from Tamil Nadu to operate in Bhojpur, Bihar. Despite the BSPCB’s actions, the factories are still manufacturing asbestos products. Legal actions regarding the companies’ actions are ongoing before the Patna High Court. A case against the BSPCB, Bihar Industrial Area Development Authority (BIADA) and the State of Bihar has also been filed by one of the asbestos companies. The next court hearing will be on August 7. See: Nibhi asbestos company in Patna High Court after cancellation of its permission by Pollution Control Board.

Asbestos Hazard: Thailand

Jul 25, 2017

On July 24, Canadian and Thai colleagues took part in an International Asbestos Seminar entitled Canadian Ban Asbestos Policy 2018, at Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok. Featured speakers included Associate Prof. Dr Yv Bonnier Viger (Canada), Prof. Dr Pornchai Sithisarankul, Associate Prof. Dr Wantanee Phanprasit and representatives of the National Health Commission, the Department of Disease Control, the Council of Work and Environment Related Patient Network and government units. The prime focus of the day was to understand national strategies for minimising the occurrence of asbestos-related diseases through banning asbestos use. See photo: Invitation to Thailand Asbestos Seminar.

Progress: Asbestos Ban

Jul 24, 2017

Following meetings and discussions held last week in Hanoi about the deadly asbestos hazard, media reports have been published documenting increased government support for a national asbestos ban by 2020 to eliminate asbestos-related diseases. Simultaneously, industry-informed articles (see: Business anxiety before the proposed ban on white asbestos) have appeared, denying that any occupationally-linked cases of the asbestos cancer mesothelioma had been diagnosed, that smoking caused mesothelioma and that white asbestos was an essential resource for Vietnam. See: Tiến tới dừng sử dụng amiăng trắng tại Việt Nam [Towards stopping the use of white asbestos in Vietnam].

Good Omen?

Jul 24, 2017

A former asbestos factory in Chongqing, a major manufacturing city in southwest China, has been transformed into a space for artistic exhibitions and installations. Commenting on this news, the author of an online Chinese article asserts that this development heralds a new era for the Chinese economy in which “heavy industry businesses trapped in overcapacity and environmental problems are being shut down across the country and removed from urban areas to make way for services and consumer industries.” See: 中国昔日工厂正变身艺术园区外媒:用创意产业擦亮“锈带” [Former asbestos factory in China transformed into art gallery].

Tackling Asbestos Disease

Jul 21, 2017

Meetings in Hanoi took place on July 19 and 20, 2017 between international and local asbestos experts and government officials, representatives of the Vietnam General Confederation of Labour, civil society campaigners from the Vietnam Ban Asbestos Network and other groups to consider the multifaceted nature of the asbestos challenges facing the country including the impact of hazardous exposures on human health, the availability of safer materials, and the problems regarding demolition and disposal of asbestos-containing materials. Technical and medical information presented by Canadian, Australian and Japanese speakers was warmly received. See: Photograph of discussion panel.

Asbestos Hazard

Jul 21, 2017

A July article in the Vietnamese media detailed the death of a British woman from the asbestos cancer mesothelioma. Susan MacGregor died in 2014, 14 months after she had been diagnosed, aged 58. As a child, she had hugged her father when he returned home wearing asbestos-covered work clothes. The article cites evidence from the World Health Organization and the Environmental Protection Agency confirming the deadly nature of human exposure to asbestos. See: Niềm vui đón bố đi làm về không ngờ là lý do khiến người phụ nữ bị ung thư mà chết 50 năm sau đó [The joy of going to work resulted in cancer death of a woman 50 years later].

Raising Asbestos Awareness

Jul 20, 2017

On July 19, 2017, academics from Taiwan University launched a publication entitled “Deadly Dust” detailing the hazards posed to workers and the public from exposures to asbestos-containing materials and called on the government to implement measures to increase workplace and environmental protection. Professor Zheng Yawen informed journalists that people suffering from cancer caused by asbestos exposure have been diagnosed in Taiwan and that due to the presence of asbestos throughout Taiwan, more cases are anticipated especially amongst construction workers. See: 石綿致癌工人受害學者憂政府漠視害命 [Academics concern over occupational asbestos hazard].

Asbestos Scandal: Schools

Jul 12, 2017

Following its second survey of asbestos in schools undertaken in 2016, Japan’s Education Ministry announced last week that 227 institutions in 14 of the country’s 47 prefectures had chimneys using asbestos as heat insulation. Local governments responsible for the 227 public kindergartens, elementary, junior high and high schools with old chimneys that may scatter asbestos were instructed to address this matter. Amongst the public schools with risky chimneys, Hokkaido had 116 schools, the largest number, followed by Ishikawa Prefecture, with 34, and Tokyo, with 22. See: Japan study finds chimneys at 227 public schools at risk for scattering asbestos.

Industry Offensive

Jul 2, 2017

A “study” published last week asserted that a proposed asbestos ban in Sri Lanka would disastrously impact on the country’s finances. It is of relevance to note that this report was launched at a seminar entitled: “Socio Economic Impact of the Potential Prohibition of Chrysotile in Sri Lanka” held by the Chrysotile Information Centre of Sri Lanka, an asbestos industry trade association which continues to assert that the “safe use” of carcinogenic asbestos products can be achieved. This industry-tailored document is clearly an attempt to dissuade key decision makers from following through on their pledge to ban asbestos in Sri Lanka by 2024. See: Proposed asbestos ban a costly affair, says report.

Asbestos Shipbreaking Death

Jun 22, 2017

On June 21, 2017, the Bangladesh Occupational Safety, Health and Environment Foundation (OSHE) reported the death of asbestosis sufferer Mohammad. Ridwan, aged 55. The former shipbreaking worker had worked for 20 years as a cutterman at the KSRM Steel Yard in Shitalpur, Shitakunda, Chittagong. During that time, he had routinely been exposed to asbestos; he was diagnosed with 80% disability at an asbestos outreach diagnosis camp set up by the OSHE in Chittagong and had been receiving treatment from the OSHE Workers Health Clinic at Shitakunda, Chittagong. He died on June 11, 2017. See: Photo of Mr. Ridwan in 2016.

Calls for India Ban

Jun 16, 2017

A commentary by activist Jagdish Patel, national coordinator of the Occupational and Environmental Health Network of India, uploaded on June 15 has called into question continuing government support for the country’s asbestos sector by highlighting statistics which document the high toll being taken by dangerous exposures to asbestos, citing a report by the Ministry of Labour and Employment which said: “It is also high time that the government take initiative in formulating a national plan for prevention and control of silicosis and asbestosis in India…” See: Need for urgent action to protect workers from exposure to Chrysotile form of Asbestos fibers.

Update: Asbestos Dialogue

Jun 15, 2017

The June 2017 issue of the Bulletin of the People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) includes a feature by ban asbestos campaigner Jagdish Patel entitled Government Policy & Action on Highly Hazardous Substance ASBESTOS which discusses the engagement of civil society representatives with government officials in charge of the national asbestos policy. It details rude and intimidatory behaviour by Indian bureaucrat Biswanath Sinha at a UN meeting in Geneva; in 2017 Sinha accosted asbestosis victim Rajendra Pevekar; two years previously he had done the same to Mr. Sharad Vittnal Sawant, an asbestos victim from, Mumbai. See: PUCL Bulletin, June 2017.

Public Asbestos Anxiety

Jun 15, 2017

The free telephone hotline operated on June 13 and 14, 2017 by the Japan Association of Mesothelioma and Asbestos-related Disease Victims and their Families received more than 1,000 calls from all over Japan on five telephone lines with long queues of calls building up from concerned citizens. The majority of questions related to the presence of asbestos-containing products in Japanese homes but there were also calls from people concerned about having contracted asbestos-related diseases. Asbestos litigation in Japan is a fairly new concept but lobbying by campaigners to access new public and private sources of support for the injured is ongoing.

Asbestos: Public Housing

Jun 13, 2017

A new survey has revealed that asbestos was used in the construction of 22,000 public housing apartments in Japan. Professor Takehiko Murayama from the Tokyo Institute of Technology has estimated that this contamination could have damaged the health of more than 230,000 people. One former resident, 53-year-old Kazuko Saito, was diagnosed with mesothelioma in 2015; she had lived in contaminated public housing from 1963 until 1984. On June 13 and 14, The Japan Association of Mesothelioma and Asbestos-related Disease Victims and their Families will operate a free hotline for enquiries related to asbestos exposures. See: Former resident develops mesothelioma.

Asbestos Scandal

Jun 12, 2017

A June 9, 2017 exposé in the Mainichi Shimbun, one of Japan’s major newspapers, revealed that between September 2012 and April 2016 customs bureaus in Tokyo, Osaka and Kobe allowed the import of asbestos-containing products despite prohibitions under the Industrial Safety and Health Act. According to the article, dealers in eight cases were asked to subsequently sanitize import declarations. Details of this scandal were obtained following the submission by staff from the Mainichi of an information disclosure request and an official complaint to the Minister of Finance. See: 3 customs bureaus suspected of asking dealers to cover up asbestos imports.

Pro-Asbestos Rally

Jun 12, 2017

Last week, a public rally in Jitikara, a village in the northwest of Kazakhstan, denounced the global campaign to ban asbestos. Kostani Minerals, one of the world’s largest asbestos mining companies, is a major employer in this area. Speakers at this event castigated the efforts of health and safety campaigners, international trade unionists and others who support an end to the slaughter caused by human exposures to asbestos, with threadbare and discredited rhetoric claiming that asbestos is a “natural and cheap material” which is safe to use. See: Работники хризотиловой отрасли в Казахстане встали на защиту асбеста [Chrysotile workers in Kazakhstan support asbestos protection].

Asbestos Mortality Report

Jun 5, 2017

According to a report by the Asian Citizen’s Center for Environment and Health (ACCEH), in the last decade 2,467 cases of asbestos-related diseases were recognized by Korea’s Environment Ministry; 1,006 (~40%), of victims died. Asbestos was widely used in construction materials. Despite a ban, there are still a large number of contaminated buildings which pose an imminent health threat, especially considering the frequency of reconstruction and renovation work. The ACCEH is calling for “an independent investigative body” to consider these matters and take action. See: Almost 10,000 Koreans suffered environmental diseases in 10 yrs: report.

Asbestos Alert

May 25, 2017

A new visual resource has been developed by BaliFokus, a member of the Indonesian Ban Asbestos Network (INABAN), to raise awareness of the hazard posed to children by the use of asbestos-cement roofing and lead paint at schools. BaliFokus staff in Bali and in Jakarta work closely with partnering organizations in the government and in civil society to educate professionals on the hazardous nature of these products, reach out to at-risk workers and progress the national dialogue on toxic substances. See: Video Stop Penggunaan Cat Bertimbal dan Atap Asbes di Sekolah [Video: Stop the use of asbestos and lead at schools].

Asbestos Class Action

May 23, 2017

Fifteen claimants have brought an asbestos lawsuit in the Yamaguchi district court for hazardous occupational exposures experienced between 1954 and 2011 at factories belonging to the Ube Board Company (now in liquidation) in Ube City, Osaka City and Fuji City, Japan. Some of the plaintiffs are suffering from asbestos-related diseases including lung cancer and mesothelioma; others have already died from their asbestos injuries. The lawsuit is claiming millions of yen in damages from the Japanese State and the company, which was a building materials manufacturer. See: アスベスト被害で国を提訴 [Suing the State for Asbestos Injuries].

Importing Death

May 22, 2017

Laos now ranks amongst the world’s major importers of asbestos; it has 16 asbestos processing factories, 3 of which are in the province of Luang Prabang, a world heritage city of golden temples. According to Phillip Hazleton, from Australia’s Union Aid Abroad - APHEDA: “In 2013 Laos imported 8000 tonnes of chrysotile but the figure may be closer to 12,000 tonnes. In 2010 it was only 3000 tonnes of raw asbestos. Laos is not known for its scrupulous import records. But what is clear is that while India and China may be greater net importers, Laos imports more per capita than anywhere else.” See: Asbestos: Out of sight but not out of mind in Asia.

Mass Rally in Tokyo

May 20, 2017

On Friday, May 19, 2017 three thousand construction workers held a mass outdoor meeting in Tokyo to mark the ninth anniversary of the first asbestos class action by construction workers in Japan. To date, there have been six judgments by district courts, five of which held the government responsible and one of which acknowledged the responsibility of the manufacturers of construction materials. The first high court judgment will be handed down in Autumn 2017. In the photograph below, the items held up – traditional paper fans called “uchiwa” – have the Japanese words for “apologize, compensate and eliminate” emblazoned across them. See: Picture of May 19, 2017 Tokyo demonstration.

Death of Environment Minister

May 18, 2017

India’s Environment Minister Anil Madhav Dave died in Delhi today (May 18) from lung cancer. In 2016, the Minister had expressed support for the phasing out of asbestos use in India, telling a journalist from the Times of India that: “Since the use of asbestos is affecting human health, its use should gradually be minimised and eventually end. As far as I know, its use is declining. But it must end” (see: Will look for alternatives to carcinogenic asbestos: Environment Minister). India remains the world’s biggest asbestos importer and toxic exposures are routine occurrences for millions of workers and members of the public. See: Union Environment Minister Anil Madhav Dave dies of lung cancer.

Asbestos: An Imminent Hazard

May 18, 2017

Investigations by the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism have revealed that the presence of asbestos-containing products in small scale premises remains a potent health hazard to workers and members of the public. A report issued on May 17, 2017 found that up to 80,000 small private buildings out of a total of 1.3 million were contaminated, with up to 30,000 having failed to take appropriate measures to neutralize the hazard as a result of which highly hazardous products such as sprayed asbestos remain in place. See: Up to 82,000 small buildings estimated to still use asbestos: gov't survey.

Pakistan: Asbestos Ban

May 15, 2017

The processes and drawbacks relating to the commercial exploitation of asbestos in Pakistan are discussed in this commentary which concludes with a reminder that the Pakistan National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Human Resource Development has recommended a complete ban on the import and use of asbestos in 22 industries due to the adverse effects of human exposures to asbestos. The author notes that: “unsafe mining methods and handling of asbestos products poses serious threat to human health and environment.” See: Asbestos-caused diseases spreading.

Courage and Tenacity

May 11, 2017

Exposing the hazards of asbestos exposure in a country where industry forces prevail is an uphill battle. Last week asbestosis sufferer Siti Kristina from Jakarta took her case to the United Nations when she told a meeting in Geneva of the tragic consequences of her workplace asbestos exposures. Interviews with Siti Kristina, Wira Ginting from Indonesia’s Local Initiative for Occupational Health and Safety Network, Dr Anna Suraya and others inform a new feature which highlighted the multiple injustices faced by those suffering from preventable asbestos-related diseases in Indonesia and the small glimmers of hope that these diseases will be officially recognized. See: Battling asbestos, one step at a time.

Unionists Call for Asbestos Action

May 11, 2017

At a press conference in Karachi on April 28, 2017, Pakistani trade unionist Nasir Mansoor, Deputy General Secretary of the National Trade Union Federation, urged “the Pakistan Government not to turn a blind eye towards the long-term hazards related to Asbestos usage and exposure" he cautioned.” During this event, which took place on International Workers Memorial Day, Mansoor and other speakers highlighted the importance of the upcoming debate in Geneva of the United Nations’ Rotterdam Convention on regulating the global trade in chrysotile (white) asbestos. See: Union workers demand ban on all forms of asbestos at upcoming UN meeting.

Asbestos Disconnect!

May 9, 2017

A text published today (May 9) on the website of a Kazakhstan news source delineated the discrepancy between the pro-asbestos policies of East European vested interests and the stance of the World Health Organization, the International Agency for Research on Cancer and the UN’s Rotterdam Convention, all of whom call for regulations to be imposed on the global trade of chrysotile asbestos. See: Пока ВОЗ предупреждает о риске рака от хризотилового асбеста, Кыргызстан и Казахстан отстаивают право на его использование [While WHO warns of the risk of cancer from chrysotile asbestos, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan defend the right to use it].

Asbestos Disease in Shipbreakers

May 9, 2017

The latest issue of the Bangladesh Occupational Safety, Health & Environment Foundation (OSHE) newsletter carries a feature documenting the findings of an asbestos outreach project conducted amongst shipbreaking workers in Chittagong which revealed high levels of asbestos-related disease. Thirty-three out of the 101 workers examined were diagnosed with asbestosis. Eight of those diagnosed were 60% disabled. The OSHE has recommended the government: establish a facility to diagnose and treat individuals with asbestosis and provide specialist training for medical professionals and support for shipbreaking workers. See: The slow poison killing shipbreaking workers. OSHE Newsletter January – March 2017.

Failing Government; Dying Workers

May 6, 2017

Two articles published last week contrasted the Indian government’s pro-asbestos policy with the country’s deadly asbestos reality, where toxic exposures experienced by millions of citizens are routine occurrences. The article India’s contentious stand on Chrysotile asbestos is a cause for concern for environmentalists, and the one cited below signpost the importance of the government’s participation in a UN meeting in Geneva which aims to protect populations from exposure to toxic chemicals and pesticides. See: Asbestos harms the health of millions of Indian workers. Will the government finally move to ban it?.

Kymore: Asbestos Hotspot

Mar 23, 2017

This online article highlights the deadly legacy of asbestos use and processing in the Madhya Pradesh industrial town of Kymore, in central India. Citing details from a new report by international experts, the authors state that: “Kymore seems to be built of asbestos. It is incorporated in school, playgrounds, the corrugated iron roofs of the houses of the factory workers. Many of these buildings are in bad shape and crumble. Moreover, the asbestos waste was dumped for years on meadows around the [asbestos] factory and unsafe landfill… during the period of the Belgian Etex, which was later turned into Eternit Everest.” See: Belgian report alleges MNC Etex responsible for asbestos pollution in Madhya Pradesh town Kymore.

Call for Action

Mar 22, 2017

A letter by Jagdish Patel, National Coordinator of the Occupational and Environmental Health Network of India, addressed to Anil Madhav Dave, India’s Minister of Environment and Forests, has been uploaded to the internet. In this document Mr. Patel reiterates requests that “the Government, as a party to the Rotterdam Convention, … support the amendment to the Rotterdam Convention that a group of twelve African countries have submitted to the Secretariat and that will be discussed at the COP 8.” This letter is signed by groups representing Indian workers, health activists and campaigners. See: Support amendment to Rotterdam Convention for listing of chrysotile asbestos at COP 8.

Calls for Asbestos Action

Feb 26, 2017

In a letter to India’s Minister of Environment Anil Madhav, who in August 2016 publicly spoke of the need to protect citizens from the risk of contracting asbestos diseases, grassroots activist Jagdish Patel from the Occupational and Environmental Health Network of India urged the Minister to work with government colleagues to end toxic exposures and support efforts by the United Nations Rotterdam Convention to include chrysotile (white) asbestos on a list of substances subject to regulatory controls. The next meeting of the Rotterdam Convention will take place from April 24 to May 5, 2017. See: In 2017 at COP 8, India has another opportunity to support the listing of chrysotile asbestos in PIC.

Asbestos Road Map

Feb 23, 2017

Today, the launch of a working group to develop a National Asbestos Profile of Cambodia took place at a meeting convened in Phnom Penh. The event was sponsored by the Cambodian Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training in partnership with Union Aid Abroad – APHEDA and Australian Aid. The action plans resulting from these collaborations are intended to protect public and occupational health from the deadly asbestos hazard. The efforts of the working group – which will be conducted under the auspices of the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training – will be informed by medical experts, representatives of international agencies, civil servants and others. See: Picture.

Tightening Asbestos Controls

Feb 22, 2017

On February 21, 2017, the Government of South Korea announced tighter regulations for asbestos management to safeguard individuals attending or working at private after-school academies from hazardous exposures; the new regulations will be introduced this week. To improve monitoring efforts, the introduction of a biannual air quality test has been mandated on smaller facilities which, until now, had been exempt from these requirements. Non-compliance with the asbestos regulations can be punished with a fine of up to ten million won (US$8750). See: Gov't tightens asbestos management rules.

Chrysotile Risk to Mechanics

Feb 16, 2017

A paper uploaded earlier this year exposed the ubiquity and hazardous nature of workplace exposures to chrysotile asbestos at small workshops in India. The awareness about the danger of asbestos in one small-scale clutch-plate manufacturing unit was abysmal with 14 workers acknowledging they had no “detailed information about asbestos and its ill effects.” Eleven members of this cohort had contracted small airway disease and one of their colleagues had previously died of asbestosis. The authors of this paper conclude: “The usage of chrysotile should be strictly regulated as morbidity and mortality is high.” See: Asbestos-induced lung disease in small-scale clutch manufacturing workers.

Construction Workers Victory

Feb 15, 2017

On February 14, 2017, Judge Toshio Uchino of the Sapporo District Court ordered the government to pay a total of ¥176 million (~US$1.54m) in damages to former construction workers from Hokkaido with asbestos-related diseases and family members of those who have already died from these diseases, saying: “The state should have informed the workers’ employers by 1980 of the need to use dust-proof masks.” This is the fifth district court ruling which has found the government fully or partially responsible for asbestos-related damages at construction sites in Japan. See: Court orders government to pay ¥176 million to asbestos victims.

Update: Ban Asbestos Campaign

Feb 13, 2017

A 45-page bumper issue of the quarterly Occupational Safety and Health Newsletter of the Asian Network for the Rights of Occupational and Environmental Health Victims has now been uploaded which shows the amazing mobilization of ban asbestos support throughout Asia. Articles of special interest detail asbestos events and initiatives mounted by grassroots campaigners in India, Indonesia, Japan Kenya, Korea, Nepal, Taiwan and Sri Lanka. What is clear from the texts in Issue 39 is not only the progress being made by activists but the importance of cross-border and cross discipline collaborations amongst victims, workers, unionists, NGOs and others. See: Occupational Safety and Health Newsletter.

Industry Offensive in Vietnam

Feb 8, 2017

A biased pro-asbestos feature was published in the Vietnamese press on January 30, 2017 that revealed the interference of foreign vested interests in the Vietnamese asbestos debate. Using examples provided by the Russian and Brazilian industry, the “infomercial” repeated propaganda claiming that the industrial processing of asbestos could be conducted under “safe and controlled conditions.” As part of an ongoing industry offensive targeting asbestos markets in Asia, Vietnamese national politicians were invited to Brazil by a “yellow union” (one linked to the asbestos industry) on a fact-finding trip. See: Nhà máy sản xuất tấm lợp fibro xi măng [Factory production of fibro cement roofing].

Asbestosis at the Shipyards

Feb 6, 2017

A study released this week by the Bangladesh Occupational Safety, Health and Environment Foundation (OSHE) confirmed the toxic effect of occupational asbestos exposures upon ship-breaking workers in Bangladesh. The results of tests carried out by OSHE medical personnel at diagnosis camps in Chittagong confirmed that 33 workers out of the 101 examined had contracted asbestosis from breathing asbestos during the dismantling of ships. Eight of those diagnosed were 60% disabled. The OSHE study is ongoing with a further 400 workers due to be examined by July 2017. See: Asbestos: The slow poison killing ship-breaking workers.

Japan Asbestos Mobilization

Feb 1, 2017

An asbestos conference at the Tokyo Institute of Technology on January 28 and 29, 2017 provided the opportunity for asbestos experts from the UK and Japan to provide updated information on technical and regulatory developments pertaining to the analysis, removal, remediation and disposing of asbestos-containing materials. A presentation given by ban asbestos campaigner Laurie Kazan-Allen see: The Global Campaign to Ban Asbestos 2017!) considered the progress being made around the world by those fighting to outlaw asbestos use and provide support for the injured. See: Image from conference discussion session..

Leadership in Asbestos Research

Jan 19, 2017

Japanese public health expert Professor Ken Takahashi will take the reins as the director of the Sydney-based Asbestos Diseases Research Institute (ADRI) in February 2017. He will be taking over from Professor Nico van Zandwijk who has led ADRI since 2007. Published papers by Professor Takahashi have shown the correlation between national asbestos consumption and the incidence of mesothelioma deaths. Commenting on his new appointment, Professor Takahashi said: “Asbestos-related diseases are preventable. I want to protect workers around the world.” See: In the News / Ken Takahashi / Expert continues battle against asbestos-related diseases.

Asbestos Protest at Brazilian Embassy

Jan 12, 2017

On January 11, 2017, the Ban Asbestos Network of Korea (BANKO) held its fourth ban asbestos protest outside the Seoul embassy of an asbestos-producing country. In previous weeks, demonstrations were held at the embassies of Russia (December 21), China (December 28) and Kazakhstan (January 4). This week it was at the Brazilian embassy. Asbestos victims, environmentalists, medical experts, and occupational health activists displayed colourful banners calling for Brazil to stop mining deadly asbestos, held an outdoor press conference and delivered a letter calling for an end to the mining, consumption and export of asbestos. See: Photo of January 11, 2017 protest.

Demonstration at Kazakhstan Embassy

Jan 5, 2017

Members of the Ban Asbestos Network of Korea (BANKO), having held protests outside the embassies of Russia and China – the biggest global asbestos producers – in December 2016, yesterday mounted a demonstration outside the Kazakhstan embassy in Seoul. The BANKO press conference and protest were filmed by TV crews from Korea and Kazakhstan. The national TV station of Kazakhstan - KHABAR24 – interviewed two Korean asbestos victims. In 2009, Korea banned the use of asbestos. Experts predict that thousands of people will die from asbestos diseases over the next two decades. See: Photos (2) of January 4, 2017 demonstration.

Asbestos Legacy in Taiwan

Jan 5, 2017

A 40-minute documentary subtitled in English details the deadly impact of asbestos on people in Taiwan, and contrasts the lack of social activism on this issue with the dynamic role played by victims in the fight for recognition, compensation and prevention in Japan. Although the sale of asbestos tiles was banned in 2013, the use of some toxic products remains legal and environmental contamination is a part of life in Taiwan. The evidence presented by medical, technical and academic experts compliments the personal stories of individuals whose lives have been shattered by asbestos disease. This is an important film and should be watched. See: Asbestos: the InvisibleThreat.

Asbestos Conundrum

Jan 3, 2017

Despite a 2015 statement by Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena declaring his intention to ban imports of asbestos roofing by 2018, this material remains the product of choice for poor people. Whilst the government acknowledges asbestos is a carcinogen, asbestos industry propagandists continue to proclaim that “there is no medical evidence to support the claim that white asbestos causes cancer.” An article published by World Is One News (WION) – an international news platform – on January 2 says that “Sri Lanka needs to make a choice, a choice between life and death.” See: Breath of death: Asbestos may be cheap roofing material but it causes cancer.

Ban Asbestos Protests

Jan 2, 2017

On Wednesday, December 21, 2016, the Ban Asbestos Network of Korea (BANKO) embarked on the first of a series of demonstrations outside the embassies of asbestos-producing countries with a well-attended event in front of the Russian Embassy in central Seoul. Signs with slogans such as “Stop RUSSIA! Asbestos Mining!,” “STOP, DEATH Export,” “Asbestos Free Asia” and “Asbestos Free World” were held aloft during the event which was covered by TV crews. A similar protest was mounted in front of the Chinese Embassy on December 28 with two more such actions planned for January. See: Photo from December 21, 2016 demonstration at the Russian Embassy in Seoul.

Asbestos Compensation in Japan

Dec 21, 2016

A press release issued on December 20, 2016 by Japan’s Ministry of Labor disclosed that over a thousand people exposed to asbestos at 918 workplaces throughout Japan were compensated for various asbestos related conditions in 2015 under workers compensation schemes, with cases of mesothelioma (551) and lung cancer (381) accounting for 88% of the claims. As of March 2016 more than 15,000 individuals with asbestos-related diseases had been compensated under workers compensation schemes with a further 9,000 compensated by relief schemes administered by the Ministry of the Environment’ Environmental Restoration and Conservation Agency.

Landmark Ban Asbestos Event

Dec 6, 2016

On November 28, 2016 a workshop entitled The National Campaign to Promote Dangers of the Use of Asbestos Products was held in Colombo by the National Trade Union Federation and the Building and Woodworkers International (BWI). This, the first grassroots ban asbestos initiative in Sri Lanka, was attended by representatives of trade unions, civil society organizations, government agencies and the asbestos industry. Amongst the speakers were: the General Secretaries of the National Building Workers Union and the Lanka Jathika Estate Workers Union, Dr. Alistair Graham Smith from the ILO, Sugio Furuya, from the Asian Ban Asbestos Network, and the BWI’s Anup Srivastva.

Eradication of Asbestos Pipes

Oct 28, 2016

Provincial authorities have asked the Malaysian Government to finance the replacement of hundreds of thousands of deteriorating asbestos-cement pipes around Kuching, capital of the Malaysian state of Sarawak. The upgrading programme has been budgeted at over $165m and is motivated by the need to deal with water interruptions caused by underground leaks and burst pipes. The worn out asbestos-cement pipes are unable to deal with high pressure water flows and will be replaced under a phased eradication program with either metal or high density polyethylene pipes. See: Asbestos-based cement water pipes to be replaced.

Increasing Rate of Asbestos Disease

Oct 28, 2016

At a press conference in Taipei on October 24, 2016, ban asbestos campaigners from the Taiwan Occupational Safety and Health Link and the Asian Ban Asbestos Network told journalists that the incidence of asbestos mortality is rising in Taiwan amongst people exposed to asbestos at work such as shipyard workers. Interviews undertaken of asbestos disease sufferers by the Taiwan Occupational Safety and Health Link established that most of those affected had been occupationally exposed to asbestos and that few of them had any awareness of the asbestos hazard or had received any warnings from their employers. See: Press Release: Towards an asbestos-free environment.

Launch of National Asbestos Profile

Oct 21, 2016

At a meeting in Kathmandu today (October 21, 2016), the Center for Public Health and Environmental Development (CEPHED) launched a new publication – The National Asbestos Profile of Nepal – which is intended to progress work on ensuring safer working and living conditions in a country which has banned the use of asbestos and asbestos-containing products (with one exemption). Attending the session were guests and delegations from the government and private sector, including personnel from the Ministry of Population and Environment, the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Labour and Employment and the Ministry of Finance. See: CEPHED Press Release.

Russian Propaganda Onslaught

Oct 21, 2016

Russia’s Ambassador to Sri Lanka Alexander Karchava publicly challenged plans to outlaw white asbestos at a meeting earlier this month, during which he called on stakeholders including members of the Sri Lanka-Russia Business Council to exert pressure on politicians to safeguard the interests of Russia’s asbestos industry by preserving the status quo. The Ambassador said he had discussed this issue with President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe in meetings which “bore positive results.” Karchava offered to bring experts to Sri Lanka “to educate the people on the safe use of chrysotile asbestos.” See: Russian experts ready to educate Lankans on safe use of chrysotile asbestos: envoy.

Environmental Asbestos Exposures

Oct 17, 2016

As the number of cases of mesothelioma in Korea continues to rise, research has been undertaken to identify geographical locations with high levels of contamination caused either by naturally occurring materials or the processing and/or the manufacture of asbestos-containing products. Asbestos hotspots were identified in Chungnam, Gyeonggi, Busan, Gyeongnam, Gyeonggi and Daejeon. The information on environmental asbestos exposures will, say the authors of this paper, be useful for establishing individual causal relationships as well as medical treatment plans. See: Environmental asbestos exposure sources in Korea.

India’s Asbestos Policy

Sep 29, 2016

An online commentary documents the growth of activism amongst local people and campaigners in India to address hazards posed by exposures to asbestos despite the existence of powerful political and commercial vested interests. The author cites dangerous conditions in shipyards where end-of-life vessels are dismantled: “The condition of the workforce is worse than the worst industrial sector - the mining industry.” There is hope that the draft National Health Policy 2015 may introduce measures to “to prevent preventable but incurable diseases that are more prevalent in certain occupational groups.” See: Asbestos: more than 50 nations have banned it. Why is India refusing?

New Delhi Asbestos Workshop

Sep 25, 2016

On September 24-25, 2106 a workshop was held within the framework of the 3rd International Conference on Occupational and Environmental Health (ICOEH 2016) in New Delhi. The title of this workshop was: The Elimination of Asbestos Related Diseases in India. This session was organized by grassroots groups from India and Asia in partnership with the International Ban Asbestos Secretariat. Key speakers who addressed the event included: Sugio Furuya (Japan), Sanjiv Pandita (Hong Kong) and Yeyong Choi (Korea) from the Asian Ban Asbestos Network and Mohit Gupta from the Occupational and Environmental Network of India. See: Workshop Banner.

Pro-asbestos Commentary

Sep 23, 2016

An online commentary in the Azerbaijan media has extolled the virtues of chrysotile (white) asbestos-containing products and announced that demand for them remains strong. Recapping facts about the history of the commercial exploitation of asbestos, the commentary cites misleading information as assurances that products containing it are safe to use. The name of the author of this text is not given nor is any data about the country’s levels of asbestos consumption. In 2014 and 2015 usage was reportedly 319 and 410 tonnes, respectively. See: Так ли опасен асбест? Стройматериал возвращается на рынки [Is asbestos dangerous? Building material returns to the markets].

Asbestos Lawsuit against Government

Sep 19, 2016

The Japanese Government is being sued by former employees and family members of deceased workers from Nichias, a Japanese building materials manufacturer, in a multimillion yen action in the Gifu district court in central Japan. The case relates to injuries sustained as a result of asbestos exposures at the company’s Hashima factory in Gifu Prefecture. According to the complaint, toxic exposures took place from 1954 as a result of which the claimants contracted lung cancer and asbestosis. See: ニチアス元従業員の遺族、石綿被害で国賠提訴　計４２９０万円求め [Former Nichias employees and bereaved relatives issue asbestos lawsuit for a total of 42.9 million yen in damages].

2018: Deadline for Asbestos Ban

Sep 14, 2016

Last week (September 7, 2016), Mahaweli Development and Environment Ministry Secretary Udaya Senevirathne told delegates at a climate change conference in Colombo that the Sri Lanka government is committed to banning asbestos in 2018 and eradicating asbestos contamination by 2024. A special committee has been tasked to investigate the health hazards posed by asbestos roofing sheets which are very popular in Sri Lanka. According to a government spokesman: “We have already asked the Moratuwa University to work out a report and hope to discuss the issue shortly.” See: Wiping Out Asbestos By 2024?

Grassroots Support for India Ban

Sep 12, 2016

A letter transmitted today (September 12, 2016) by leading grassroots campaigning groups has been sent to India’s Minister of the Environment Anil Madhav Dave who called for a ban on asbestos in India on the grounds of public health in an interview he gave last month (August, 2016) to the Times of India. The letter, written by the Asian Ban Asbestos Network, the Occupational and Environmental Health Network of India and the International Ban Asbestos Secretariat commends the Minister’s statement and offers support for and assistance in “developing a road map to free India from the asbestos scourge.” See: Letter to Minister Anil Madhav Dave.

Lost Cases Violate Human Rights

Sep 12, 2016

India’s National Institute of Occupational Health (NIOH), Ahmedabad has been sanctioned by the Rajasthan Human Rights Commission for its failure to follow up on cases of suspected asbestosis. Potential cases of asbestosis diagnosed after tests taken in 2007 and 2011 were never followed up. According to a complaint submitted in 2014 by the Mine Labour Protection Campaign (MLPC), of 164 patients examined by the NIOH in 2007, 93 were suspected to have asbestosis; 22 of them had died by the time the MLPC took the matter to the Rajasthan State Human Rights Commission. See: Rajasthan rights panel raps NIOH, Ahmedabad.

Asbestos on Conference Agenda

Sep 8, 2016

The Public Services International (PSI), a global trade union federation representing 20 million workers in 154 countries many of whom work for local government, is holding its 13th Asia Pacific Regional Conference (APRECON) in Fukuoka, Japan on October 9-12, 2016. Sugio Furuya, Chair of the Asian Ban Asbestos Network, will be making the first panel presentation. His talk is entitled: Regional campaign on asbestos use, recognition in our industries and community. The next speaker, Ben Thompson from Australia, will speak about: Asbestos in our community, a trade union issue. See: Announcement by Public Services International.

Expansion of Ban Asbestos Dialogue

Sep 8, 2016

A detailed analysis of the asbestos status quo in Indonesia has been published which contrasts the country’s “controlled use” policy with the global consensus that all use should be prohibited on the grounds of public health. Citing policies held by IARC, the WHO, the EPA (US) and the Collegium Ramazzini, the text documents increasing calls by civil society groups in Indonesia such as WALHI, Balifocus, Indonesia LION (Local Initiative for OSH Network Indonesia), Indonesia Ban Asbestos Network (Ina-BAN) and others for action to be taken. See: Bisnis Debu Perenggut Nyawa [Asbestos Trade: Dangerous Business say academics].

Asbestos Ban Approved!

Sep 7, 2016

A proposal to ban asbestos initially proposed by President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment, has been approved today (September 7, 2016) by Sri Lanka’s Cabinet of Ministers. As a result, the use and import of asbestos will be controlled from January 1, 2018 and the production of asbestos-containing materials will be banned as of January 1, 2024 when the use of asbestos-free products will become mandatory. In Sri Lanka asbestos is mostly used in the manufacture of asbestos-containing roofing sheets (in 2013, Sri Lanka imported 22,953 tonnes of asbestos). See: Controls on asbestos: use, import, manufacture.

Mesothelioma Death of Civic Leader

Sep 3, 2016

Fifty-six year old Tashigi Yukio Maxima who had served on the Satte city council died suddenly on August 17, 2016 of malignant pleural mesothelioma. Before being elected to local government, he had been President of the Parent and Teachers Association, a member of the Board of Education, coach of youth softball and soccer teams. Due to his status as a self-employed person, it has not yet ascertained where and when he was exposed to the asbestos which caused his disease. He is survived by his widow and three sons. See: 幸手市議・巻島幸男さん [Satte’s Tashigi Yukio Maxima].

Challenges for Thailand’s Asbestos Policy

Aug 29, 2016

On August 25, 2016 a session entitled: Future Challenges for Asbestos Policy in Thailand took place in Bangkok. This event was organized by The Health Consumer Protection Program from Chulalongkorn University and was attended by academics, government officials and representatives of civil society. The purpose of the meeting was to share information about the asbestos situation in Japan and Thailand with a particular focus on issues relating to the construction and demolition industries and natural disasters. Japanese Professor Kasuhiko Ishihara – co-author of the book “Asbestos Disaster” – made the keynote presentation. See: Conference Agenda and photograph of participants.

Environmental Asbestos Hazards

Aug 21, 2016

Earlier this month (August 2016), campaigners in Indonesia held a two-day meeting in Denpasar, Bali to discuss efforts by local government to improve the conditions for people living in the island’s slums. On the agenda was the issue of asbestos which is used as roofing material in Indonesia; according to data cited, Indonesia is the world’s 5th largest importer of asbestos. This meeting was organized by BaliFokus, a non-governmental organization, which has been instrumental in a campaign to raise awareness of the asbestos hazard in Indonesia, a country whose constitution guarantees citizens the right to live in a healthy environment. See: Asbestos-free Neighborhoods.

Minister Commits to End Asbestos Use

Aug 15, 2016

In an interview with the Times of India, Environment Minister Anil Madhav Dave said: “Since the use of asbestos is affecting human health, its use should gradually be minimised and eventually end. As far as I know, its use is declining. But it must end.” The Minister was both right and wrong simultaneously. Yes, the use of asbestos should end but no, consumption in India is not declining. According to preliminary data for 2015, usage last year was estimated at 380,000 tonnes; asbestos exposures are routine occurrences for millions of workers in India. See: Will look for alternatives to carcinogenic asbestos: Environment Minister.

India’s Struggle against Asbestos

Aug 14, 2016

In an interview with Bihar resident and Indian ban asbestos activist Gopal Krisnha, details are provided of how local people confronted and bested powerful industrial interests to prevent the construction of seven asbestos plants in the State. Five years after this struggle began, the Bihar Pollution Control Board has cancelled the requisite permission for all the plants. According to Krishna: “Villagers outwitted the corporate media which has been reluctant to publish anti-asbestos stories by wall writing in the villages adjoining the plant demanding halting of the construction of the plant.” See: Activist Gopal Krishna exposes India’s double speak in environment protection.

Asbestos at Kolkata’s High Court

Aug 8, 2016

On August 5, 2016 Chief Justice Manjula Chellur, responding to a petition from local resident Ashis Mitra demanding the removal of the asbestos roof of the high court’s buildings, commented that she had previously instructed the authorities to remediate the contamination. Whilst pursuing enquiries regarding this matter, she adjourned proceedings for a fortnight. There is asbestos-containing material on the roofs of at least 10 courtrooms, the outside portico, five bar association rooms, the bar association library, the bar association’s study room and the department of the first Assistant Registrar. See: CJ orders removal of asbestos from high court roof.

Outreach Support for Asbestos Victims

Aug 8, 2016

On August 5, 2016 a free telephone hotline was operational in Gunma Prefecture, one of Japan’s asbestos hotspots. From 10 am to 4 pm callers were able to consult with healthcare, benefits and legal advisers at the Gunma Occupational Safety and Health Center about a variety of issues related to the treatment of and support for people with asbestos-related diseases. It is believed that 1,400 people every year are diagnosed in Japan with mesothelioma, one type of deadly asbestos cancer. See: アスベス. 被害の相談会　専門スタッフ対応、電話も無料　あす高崎で　／群馬 [Asbestos: free phone line tomorrow in Gunma Prefecture].

Asbestos Cancer Epidemic Predicted

Aug 1, 2016

Medical experts have warned of an impending regional surge of cancer due to the escalation of asbestos consumption in industrializing countries in Asia. Citing examples of the wide scale and uncontrolled use of asbestos in Mongolia, Dr. Takumi Kishimoto, said he was speechless at conditions he observed at a power plant in the capital Ulaanbaatar: toxic debris was scattered on the floor with asbestos bags piled up all over the factory. None of the workers in the dusty areas were, he reported, wearing masks. Calls for measures to create a system to provide timely diagnoses and treatment are being made. See: Surging asbestos use in Asia creating slowly ticking health time bomb.

Traditional Huts 1: Asbestos Huts 0

Aug 1, 2016

For generations, villagers in a remote area of the Kerala Province in India lived in eco-friendly traditional structures which were capable not only of withstanding elephant attacks but were also suitable for harsh weather conditions. The replacement of these buildings with concrete and asbestos shelters provided by a non-governmental organization in the Marayur forests has been a dismal failure with complaints regarding the cold and the noisy asbestos tiled roofs. Several of the Muthuvan tribespeople rehoused in the new buildings have returned to their traditional dwellings. See: Warmth Walks out of Muthuvan Huts.

China’s Asbestos Boom

Jul 27, 2016

Despite the scientific and medical consensus regarding the deadly effects of asbestos exposures, the asbestos industry continues to flourish in China, according to a spokesman for the China Chrysotile (white asbestos) Association: “our production … can’t keep pace with demand from the construction industry so we have to import (asbestos fiber) from Russia.” According to this association, over the past decade, record quantities of asbestos have been used in China; chrysotile is, they allege, safer than any available substitutes. According to sources in China, in 2015 the country produced 227,000 tonnes of chrysotile, and imported 105,000 tonnes. See: China ignores WHO warnings in asbestos boom.

Asbestos Information Vacuum

July 24, 2016

An Economic Times of India commentary contrasts the global consensus over the human health risk posed by asbestos with India’s use of asbestos in friction materials. When asked about India’s asbestos policy, Bishwanath Sinha, joint secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, said: “The ministry… has no information on use of asbestos in auto components such as brakes, clutches and heat seals… There are no peer reviewed study reports on the subject … in the government of India, based on which a tangible course of action may be taken on merit.” See: World rings asbestos alarm, India ignorant about cancer-causing agent.

Who Foots the Bill for Asbestos Disease?

Jul 21, 2016

A July 2016 commentary for casualty underwriters reflects on the wide-ranging implications of a decision handed down on January 29, 2016 by the District Court of Kyoto which ordered nine manufacturers of asbestos-containing construction materials to pay a total of JPY 112 million (~US$1 million) to 23 workers and their families who died from or are suffering from asbestosis and/or lung cancer. A significant difference of opinion exists amongst courts in Japan over whether manufacturers can be held liable with district courts in Tokyo, Fukuoka, Osaka and Yokohama issuing verdicts which favoured manufacturers. See: Asbestos Court Decision and Implications in Japan.

Resource for Ban Asbestos Campaign

Jul 18, 2016

The Chrysotile Asbestos Fact Sheet uploaded to the IBAS website earlier this year has now been translated into Bahasa for use by ban asbestos campaigners in Indonesia. This work has been undertaken by the Indonesian Ban Asbestos Network – Ina-Ban. Commenting on the initiative Ina-Ban’s Coordinator M. Darisman said: “Indonesia is on the frontline of the propaganda campaign by global asbestos lobbyists who spread disinformation and lies regarding the deadly hazards of asbestos use. This new resource will be invaluable in our efforts to achieve an asbestos ban in Indonesia.” See: Chrysotile Asbestos Fact Sheet 2016 – Bahasa Translation.

Asbestos Safety Management Act Revisions

Jul 15, 2016

Concerns over the large amounts of asbestos within the national infrastructure has led the Government to announce measures to strengthen mandatory asbestos management protocols during the dismantling and reconstruction of buildings in Korea. The new safeguards are incorporated within revisions to the Asbestos Safety Management Act and will take effect on August 15, 2016. According to the Incheon Metropolitan City office of Education, up to 130 billion won is needed to remove asbestos from schools in Incheon. The price for the eradication from the Korean built environment is unknown. See: Korea to tighten asbestos controls.

Deadly Asbestos Exposures Routine

Jul 15, 2016

A 14-minute video uploaded to YouTube last month (June 2016) entitled Dangerous Dust: Asbestos Story in Indonesia, produced by the Indonesian Ban Asbestos Network working in conjunction with the Local Initiative for OSH Network, Developing World Outreach Initiative and the Korea Green Foundation, is an eye-opening expose of the hazard posed by the use of asbestos in a country where up to 8,000 people work in 26 factories using asbestos every day. The risks to workers, consumers and members of the public are highlighted as is the high degree of government complacency regarding the hazard. See: Dangerous Dust: Asbestos Story in Indonesia [Debu Mematikan: Kisah Asbes di Indonesia].

Asbestos-free Pre-School for Sri Lanka

Jun 27, 2016

Last Wednesday, June 22, 2016, a revolutionary new “green” pre-school was officially opened at a ceremony attended by government and business officials during which the Ceylon Institute of Builders issued the building with a Green Label certification. The new building, which is located in the small town of Ahangama in Sri Lanka’s Southern Province, was constructed of locally sourced soil stabilized brick blocks; the roof is composed of zinc aluminium sheets which are “100% asbestos free.” Other environmentally sustainable measures used in the pre-school include solar power and rainwater harvesting. See: First green pre-school in Sri Lanka constructed by Holcim Lanka.

Mobilization of Victims Continues

Jun 27, 2016

Japanese asbestos victims, campaigners and supporters continue to press for asbestos justice with meetings this past weekend (June 25 & 26, 2016). On Saturday, June 25, scores of delegates took part in an event in Amagasaki City to mark the 11th anniversary of the Kubota Shock, a term signifying the moment when Japan’s epidemic of asbestos disease burst into the public consciousness with news that workers and community members had contracted diseases as a result of the operations of major Japanese corporations (see: Asbestos Profile: Japan). On June 26, the annual meeting of the national network of asbestos victims and their families was held. See: Photo of meeting marking the 11th anniversary of Japan’s Kubota Shock.

Taiwan Advancing Asbestos Ban

Jun 24, 2016

This recent (Chinese) commentary discussed calls by Taiwan legislators to advance plans for a total asbestos ban. Although there had been agreement to ban asbestos by 2018, politicians believe the Environmental Protection Agency must act sooner; a timetable to achieve this goal will be announced by the end of 2016 “to safeguard people’s health.” Concern was expressed about hazardous exposures to those in the construction sector who were working with waste materials containing asbestos. See: 立委疑2018年禁用致癌物「石棉」太晚環保署承諾提前實施 [Legislators concerned about the use of carcinogenic asbestos have called on the EPA to speed up prohibitions].

Removal of Asbestos Awnings

Jun 7, 2016

On June 6, 2016, the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) announced it would replace corrugated roof awnings of most of the 349 terraced houses it manages in Chip Bee Gardens as a safety precaution as it is believed that most of them could contain asbestos. The SLA said that this work would be done even though the health risks posed to occupants remains low. In order to ensure that no asbestos is released into the environment, the removal work will be carried out by an approved contractor under supervision according to guidance issued by the Manpower Ministry which regulates the replacement and removal of asbestos. See: Roof awnings at Chip Bee Gardens to be replaced due to asbestos.

Alert on Asbestos and other Hazards

Jun 3, 2016

A commentary written in the run up to China’s implementation of the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships has contrasted the “passive acceptance” of the on-board presence of asbestos-containing material of Chinese shipowners with the strict regulation and prohibitions demanded by foreign owners. Material inspections, third party audits, strict management controls are just some of the many expensive stipulations required to deal with the asbestos maritime hazard. See: 林洪山：遏制有害物质需要全面动员 [Containment of hazardous substances requires a comprehensive mobilization].

Government Asbestos Alert

Jun 1, 2016

On May 31, 2016, Cambodia’s Labour Minister Ith Sam Heng called on employers to take action on the asbestos hazard, a substance which is commonly used in the country. “What is important,” he told delegates to an asbestos conference in Siem Reap “is the health of the employee. So the ministry wants employers and enterprise owners to be aware of the disadvantages of asbestos, which could affect employees’ health.” Reacting to these comments, one observer pointed out that the government has a responsibility to act on the human health risks posed by deadly exposures to asbestos. In August 2015, the Cambodian Government issued a proposal to ban asbestos; no follow up action has been taken. See: Employers warned on asbestos.

Japan Asbestos Victims Meeting

May 29, 2016

On Saturday, May 28, 2016, Ban Asbestos Japan (BANJAN) held its 28th annual meeting in Tokyo. The session was attended by 150+ victims, relatives and supporters. BANJAN’s discussions were preceded by an outreach initiative outside Sinjuku station during which BANJAN members distributed asbestos awareness material. Coming shortly after a recent mass demonstration in Tokyo by construction workers who demanded justice and support for the asbestos injured, there can be no doubt about the continuing resilience and commitment of Japan’s asbestos victims. See: Picture of BANJAN Mobilization in Tokyo.

Asbestos on the Water

May 28, 2016

The Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority has given permission for Anbis Development Ltd., a Bangladesh-based company, to transport via waterways 1000 metric tons of asbestos sheets from West Bengal (India) to Agartala, the capital of the Indian state of Tripura. The consignment will leave from the West Bengal port of Haldia and proceed to the Ashuganj river port of Bangladesh and then go by road to Argartala. The transport has been costed at Rs192 per metric ton. This initiative is being undertaken in response to a shortage of construction materials in Tripura due to bad road conditions. See: Tripura to get asbestos via waterways of Bangladesh.

Rally by Injured Construction Workers

May 25, 2016

Three thousand protesters attended a rally at Tokyo’s Hibiya amphitheater on May 20, 2016 demanding the Japanese government and manufacturers of asbestos-containing building materials compensate them for injuries contracted through workplace exposures. The demonstrators called for the establishment of an asbestos victims’ compensation fund financed by the government and negligent corporations. Union leaders, politicians and victims’ advocates addressed the rally. See: アスベスト被害３０００人決起元労働者や遺族「早期解決を」 [Asbestos protest: 3000 former workers and bereaved families demand “early resolution”].

Protest by Construction Workers

May 21, 2016

On May 20, 2016, 3,000 construction workers held a public rally in Tokyo in support of the rights of construction workers injured by asbestos exposures. The event was a physical manifestation of the frustration of those marginalized by workplace diseases which defendants refuse to acknowledge despite legal precedents recognizing the negligence of government agencies and commercial organizations which failed to protect workers from the asbestos hazard. After the rally, protesters demonstrated outside the headquarters of the Taiheiyo Cement Corporation, a manufacturer of construction materials. See: Photo of event.

Chrysotile and Lung Cancer Mortality

May 20, 2016

Research undertaken over a number of years regarding the incidence of lung cancer mortality amongst a cohort of workers from a factory in Chongqing, China which used only white (chrysotile) asbestos for 40 years found that “chrysotile workers had a threefold-increased risk of lung cancer death… the high exposure group had a sixfold-increased risk of lung cancer death.” A paper just published confirms that “chrysotile exposure is associated with an increased risk of lung cancer mortality and development of asbestosis …” See: Exposure-Response Estimate for Lung Cancer and Asbestosis in a Predominantly Chrysotile-Exposed Chinese Factory Cohort.

Justice Under Asbestos Roof?

May 19, 2016

A petition was admitted by the Calcutta high court on Wednesday, May 18, 2016 against the presence of asbestos on the roof of the Court. The complainant seeks the removal of this material as it is “carcinogenic to humans.” After this week’s hearing, Justice Datta acknowledged the serious nature of the problem and scheduled a further hearing for June 7. If the situation has not been remedied by then, the Judge promised to follow up as he is a “member of the building committee of the court.” See: Portions of high court roof made of carcinogenic asbestos.

Asbestos Legacy at Air Base

May 16, 2016

Thousands of documents covering over twenty years which have been released under the US Freedom of Information Act reveal extensive pollution at Okinawa Island’s Kadena Air Base, the largest US Air Force installation in Asia. Years of neglect and accidents have polluted the infrastructure, land and water with toxins including asbestos, arsenic, lead, polychlorinated biphenyls and dioxin. Twenty thousand US service personnel and 3,000 Japanese workers are employed on this 46 square kilometre site. One hundred and eighty-four thousand civilians living in neighboring communities are also at risk from the pollution. See: Contamination: Kadena Air Base’s dirty secret.

The Future: Asbestos-free Roofing

May 13, 2016

After six years of research and development, the Sri Lanka Engineering Research and Development Centre in Jaela has introduced asbestos-free roofing material in a bid to replace the use of toxic products in the country due to the “grave threat to health” of asbestos exposures. The environment friendly sheeting is made of sand, cement and a type of polythene net and can be produced by members of the public as a do-it-yourself project. The sheet is both heat resistant and strong and costs less than the asbestos alternative. The Sri Lanka government has issued a commitment to ban the new use of asbestos roofing by 2018. See: NERD produces environmental-friendly roofing sheets.

Support for Asbestos Sector

Apr 29, 2016

Even though asbestos usage is low in Azerbaijan (319 tonnes in 2014), support for the industrial asbestos sector of its neighbors Russia and Kazakhstan is strong, as evinced by an online article which bemoans the “asbestos phobia” which has led to criticism over the continued use of asbestos-cement roofing material which is, says the text, unwarranted. The “anti-asbestos hysteria” has been initiated, so the author claims, by the United States even though “almost all” asbestos substitutes can cause cancer [wrong] and asbestos-cement is very economical. See: От асбеста крыша едет [Asbestos roofing under attack].

Raising Asbestos Awareness in Vietnam

Apr 11, 2016

Asbestos issues were part of a packed agenda for delegates attending activities in Hanoi last week (April 6-10, 2016), including a workshop on the subject of Ethics in Research, Policy Advocacy and Health-Related Policy Development organized by a consortium of Vietnamese civil society groups and non-governmental organizations. Canadian Professor emeritus Dr. Colin Soskolne presented epidemiological data documenting the asbestos hazard as well as information about the human health effects of exposures. Also featured on the agenda were presentations by Vietnamese medical and occupational health experts. See: Group Photo.

Pressure Builds for Asbestos Ban

Apr 6, 2016

Ban asbestos campaigners from the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) are urging members of the public and politicians to support the passing of Senate Bill No. 89 to ban asbestos. The TUCP has sponsored an online petition calling for national action on this known carcinogen to increase pressure on the government which has been deliberating on this issue for a number of years. In 2013 and 2014 the Philippines imported 2,651 and 2,805 tonnes of asbestos, respectively, for use in asbestos building products in homes, public buildings and workplaces. See: Urge the Philippine Senate to pass the bill banning asbestos.

Government Asbestos Propaganda

Apr 2, 2016

A Russian language article published in Azerbaijan concludes that asbestos critics are part of an economic conspiracy orchestrated by vested interests, including US lawyers, asbestos removal companies and manufacturers of asbestos-free alternatives. Denouncing the “anti-asbestos hysteria,” the article maintains that the use of chrysotile asbestos under “controlled conditions” is safe and is a concept approved under ILO Convention 162 and the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences. Chrysotile fibers are, the author recounts, “rapidly cleared from the body and are not dangerous.” See: Азербайджан затягивают в асбестную войну [Azerbaijan to tighten asbestos war].

Expanding National Asbestos Dialogue

Mar 29, 2016

On March 17, 2016, events took place at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia in Jakarta during which expert speakers shared their knowledge about the asbestos hazard with up to 100 delegates from civil society organizations, campaigning groups, academic disciplines, medical schools and government agencies during a workshop and focus group discussions on asbestos and mercury. Amongst the lecturers were Prof. Dr. dr. Med. Dennis Nowak, Director of Institute and Outpatient Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital, Munich, and Dr. Anna Suraya, an occupational medicine specialist. See: From environmental exposure to familial health. Lessons learned from asbestos.

Video Evidence of Asbestos Hazards

Mar 27, 2016

Three videos have been uploaded to youtube which reveal the dangers of widespread asbestos use in Indonesia. The subjects covered are:

1) environmental asbestos exposures;
2) occupational exposures;
3) the unregulated and unsafe dumping of toxic debris in the community.

In 2014, Indonesia used 54,000 tonnes of asbestos (see: consumption data for 2014), a decline on previous years but nevertheless a significant amount.

Routine Flouting of Prohibitions

Mar 21, 2016

Despite the introduction in 2015 of a ban on asbestos consumption, imports and sales in Nepal, research undertaken by local activists has revealed that demand for asbestos-containing products remains strong, prompted by a targeted and well resourced national marketing campaign by the asbestos lobby. The popularity of asbestos-containing roofing products in the Tarai Region constitutes a “growing cancer risk.” With a total lack of bureaucratic oversight, and a failure by the government to record data on toxic imports, the situation can only get worse. See: Overhead hazard: Asbestos used as roofing in houses and schools has become a growing cancer risk.

Campaigning to Ban Asbestos in Asia

Mar 21, 2016

An initiative by Australia’s Union Aid Abroad-APHEDA in collaboration with ban asbestos activists was launched in South East Asia during February 2016 under the banner: “ASBESTOS. Not here. Not anywhere.” The focus of this campaign is the human and environmental threats posed by increasing consumption of white asbestos throughout the region. A video highlighting the problems caused by asbestos usage in Indonesia documents the total lack of public and occupational awareness of the asbestos hazard and daily exposures to 7,000 workers at 26 factories. See: ASBESTOS. Not here. Not anywhere.

Asbestos Pride in Kazakhstan

Feb 10, 2016

In a newspaper report issued on February 8, 2016, a city in the Kostanay area in northern Kazakhstan boasted that it was on course to become a global “asbestos” champion with exported chrysotile (white asbestos) fiber being shipped to India, Thailand and elsewhere. While extolling the virtues of asbestos and calling for enterprises to expand their consumption, the company spokesman also bemoaned a drop in output and the economic necessity of reducing production costs. Steps are, he said, being taken to streamline mining and processing operations. See: В Костанайской области асбестовое производство метит в мировые чемпионы [Kostanay region aims to be asbestos production world champions].

Editorial on Asbestos Compensation

Feb 5, 2016

As recent verdicts deemed the Japan Government negligent for failing to act on the asbestos hazard and as manufacturers of building materials have also now been held liable, this editorial urges that guilty parties act urgently to make restitution to all the injured many of whom are suffering from asbestos diseases which can cause death in a very short time. The editorial calls on the government and others to collaborate on establishing an asbestos fund which would compensate various categories of injured people including asbestos mill workers, construction workers and the self-employed. See: Widening asbestos compensation.

Protests over Asbestos Injuries

Feb 2, 2016

On February 2, 2016, 1,000 protestors including asbestos-injured construction workers and family members demonstrated outside the Tokyo premises of Nichias Corporation, following a landmark ruling last week in the Kyoto District Court which found that product manufacturers could be held responsible for asbestos-related injuries amongst construction workers. Nichias executives, as well as those from other manufacturing companies where rallies also took place, refused to meet the protestors. Altogether, protests were held outside the premises of ten former asbestos manufacturing companies. See: Picture from February 2, 2016 demonstration outside premises of Nichias Corporation.

Asbestos Outreach in Nepal

Feb 2, 2016

An article detailing work on quantifying and engaging with the massive asbestos challenges in Nepal is included in the latest newsletter issued by the Asian Network for the Rights of Occupational and Environmental Victims. The text details a legal challenge mounted by an asbestos manufacturer against the national asbestos ban which took effect on June 20, 2015. It also outlines plans for an ambitious program for 2016 which includes steps to: monitor sales, identify victims, conduct environmental and soil sampling and implement measures to raise public awareness of the asbestos hazard. See: January 2016 Newsletter. Asian Network for the Rights of Occupational and Environmental Victims.

Court Victory for Construction Workers

Jan 30, 2016

During a month of legal victories by Japanese asbestos plaintiffs, yesterday (Jan. 29, 2016) the Kyoto District Court ordered the Government and building material manufacturers to pay compensation of 216 million yen (US$1.78m) to 27 construction workers and their families for illnesses contracted after occupational asbestos exposures. This was the first Japanese court ruling to recognize the responsibility of building material manufacturers for asbestos injuries; nine companies were told to pay a total of 110 million yen (US$908,000) to 23 plaintiffs. See: State, building supply makers ordered to pay asbestos compensation.

Concerns over Bank Demolition

Jan 28, 2016

Manila’s Mayor Joseph Estrada has been warned about the likely presence of asbestos in the old Philippine National Bank building in Escolta, Manila which is scheduled for demolition. Highlighting the known health hazards posed by exposures to asbestos, Alan Tanjusay, of the Associated Labor Unions (ALU) and Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP), recalled that “contractors who built such iconic buildings in Manila during the 1960s generally used asbestos materials to bolster the structure.” See: Group urges Estrada to ensure PNB building’s safe demolition.

Huge Victory for Construction Workers

Jan 22, 2016

On January 21, 2016, construction workers and their families won a huge victory in the Osaka District Court with a verdict that held the Japanese Government liable for its failure to take measures to protect workers from hazardous asbestos exposures. This is the third such victory with previous favorable rulings from district courts in Tokyo and Fukuoka. Among other findings, the Osaka Court said the government should have prohibited the use of all types of asbestos, including chrysotile (white) asbestos, by 1995 at the latest. See: 国に３度目の賠償命令　建設アスベスト大阪訴訟 [Third victory for asbestos-injured construction workers in Osaka legal verdict].

Industry Propaganda Feature

Jan 21, 2016

A pro-asbestos feature appeared today (January 21, 2016) on a Sri Lanka website; the text was based on a paper from the discredited and redundant Chrysotile Institute (Canada). The anonymous author reheats industry rhetoric which discounts the deadly hazard posed by human exposures to chrysotile (white) asbestos, asserting that there is “not an excess of risk to health when it [white asbestos] is responsibly used.” “Low exposures,” he writes “to pure Chrysotile do not present a detectable risk to health… [even after short duration high exposures] the risk of an adverse outcome may be low...” See: Asbestos saga: Why so much emotion?

Measuring Environmental Asbestos Hazard

Jan 8, 2016

Research undertaken to provide measurement tools for government decision makers has been published; the study “quantified the amount of asbestos discharged naturally from [asbestos-cement] slates and visualized the amount of asbestos discharged naturally from slates in administrative districts in Korea.” Maps produced by plotting levels of contamination showed that the pollution in the Ulsan region was higher than elsewhere. Ulsan is in the south-east of the Republic of Korea and is regarded as the country’s industrial powerhouse. See: Visualizing distribution of naturally discharged asbestos fibers in Korea through analysis of thickness changes in asbestos cement slates.

National Diagnostic Standards Reviewed

Jan 6, 2016

Korea lagged behind other countries in setting standards for the recognition of occupational asbestos cancers. Initially, outdated regulations from Japan were followed; standards adopted in 2013 were more inclusive, but some requirements were left “unspecific and vague.” An academic paper just published by Korean researchers suggests the implementation of specific measures and criteria including CT scans and high levels of medical expertise in making diagnoses of these cancers. See: Review of carcinogenicity of asbestos and proposal of approval standards of an occupational cancer caused by asbestos in Korea.

Campaigners Lobbying for Ban

Dec 22, 2015

Labor advocacy groups are calling for a complete ban on the use of asbestos in Taiwan as well as the implementation of measures to audit the incidence of asbestos-related diseases in high-risk groups and treat the injured. Although the use of asbestos is banned in construction and piping materials, it can still be used in brake pads pending the introduction of stricter prohibitions in 2018. Unfortunately, even then the import of products containing asbestos would still be allowed under a Ministry of Economic Affairs’ certification scheme. See: Labor advocacy groups call for ban on asbestos.

Award for Japanese Asbestos Activists

Dec 21, 2015

Every year, to mark the anniversary of the death of ban asbestos activist and mesothelioma victim Rachel Lee Jung-Lim, campaigners in Korea bestow an award in her name to campaigners whose work has made an impact on the global struggle for asbestos justice. Today (December 21, 2015) the work of Furukawa Kazuko, Kataoka Akihiko and Iida Hiroshi has been recognized at a ceremony in Seoul. Their collective efforts have improved conditions for Japan’s asbestos victims and helped raise awareness of the asbestos epidemic throughout Asia. Mrs. Kazuko was present to accept the award at the ceremony on behalf of all the recipients. See: Photo of Plaque.

EU Supports Vietnam Asbestos Phase-Out

Dec 21, 2015

Since 2014, EU personnel have been working with officials and stakeholders to facilitate the transition in Vietnam to an asbestos-free technology. Outcomes of this collaboration were a report and a policy paper on the hazards of chrysotile asbestos; a national asbestos action plan has set a 2020 deadline for a total ban. Although research into developing asbestos-free alternatives has been ongoing since 2001 in Vietnam, strong resistance from an industry lobby has prevented a ban from being implemented. As part of the EU-Vietnam project, plans are progressing for three pilot operations for the production of asbestos substitutes. See: EU helps Vietnam phase out asbestos.

Asbestos Lost and Found

Dec 21, 2015

It was announced last week by a spokesperson for the High Court that 58 of the 168 rooms in the Tokyo building which houses the Tokyo district and high courts will be closed for an unspecified length of time due to the possible contamination by asbestos which resulted from asbestos removal work done on the premises. A few days later (December 18), Japan’s Ministry of Labor announced that prefectural labor bureaus and labor inspection offices had disposed of asbestos-related documents in contradiction to orders issued in 2005 by the Ministry to retain all asbestos-related documents for future use. See: One-third of Tokyo courtrooms to be closed.

Court to Inspect Power Stations

Dec 17, 2015

On December 16, 2015, Acting Chief Justice Jayant Patel of the Gujarat High Court ordered that a committee of government officials be set up to inspect 11 power plants after allegations of occupational health problems; a preliminary report revealed that 15 workers from two power plants had contracted the work-related diseases of asbestosis and silicosis. Committee members will include the principal secretary of the health department, an occupational health doctor, a registrar of the district court, a member of the National Institute of Occupational Health and others. See: HC panel to inspect power plants for workers' health.

Mapping Asbestos Disease

Dec 14, 2015

Campaigners in Japan have succeeding in forcing the Ministry of Labor to disclose information on all businesses which recognized cases of asbestos-related diseases since 2005. By the end of 2013, there were a total of 9,035 cases, of which 4,668 came from exposures in the construction industry and 3,367 from all other sectors. The Ministry will be announcing updated figures soon after which asbestos victim support groups will operate a free telephone hotline to answer queries from those who think they might have been affected. See: Poster advertising free phone consultation service for victims and families.

Industry Fiasco in Colombo?

Dec 3, 2015

Yesterday (December 2), a seminar entitled “Facts about the use of asbestos – Chrysotile Cement Roofing” took place in the capital of Sri Lanka. According to a delegate who attended this event, organized by asbestos vested interests, Dr. Vivek Chandra Rao (India) and toxicologist David Bernstein (Switzerland) voiced industry reassurances that chrysotile (white) asbestos could be used safely. Industry speakers alleged that no research existed which showed that chrysotile asbestos caused the fatal asbestos cancer, mesothelioma. From what can be ascertained, there seems to have been very little media coverage of this meeting.

Asbestos Industry Offensive

Dec 1, 2015

Today, an afternoon seminar entitled “Facts about the use of asbestos – Chrysotile Cement Roofing” is being hosted by Sri Lanka’s trade association representing construction industry stakeholders. Amongst the supporters of this event is the Chrysotile Information Centre, a pro-asbestos lobbying organization. The panel of speakers include industry-linked “experts”: Dr. Vivek Chandra Rao (India), toxicologist David Bernstein (Switzerland) and lobbyist Emiliano Alonso (Belgium). This session is part of the fightback by vested interests against government plans to ban asbestos in 2018. See: CCI to engage global, local asbestos experts to educate industry stakeholders.

Top Prize for Asbestos Expose

Nov 25, 2015

At a ceremony in New Delhi on Monday, November 23, 2015, New Delhi-based correspondent Katy Daigle received the foreign correspondent Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Award for her 2014 series exposing the damage done to public health and the environment by India’s asbestos industry. The award, considered to be India’s most prestigious journalism prize, was presented by India's Finance Minister Arun Jaitley for Daigle’s features which highlighted how sales were flourishing in India of a substance widely regarded by the developed world as a deadly poison. See: AP Staffers Win Prestigious Indian Journalism Awards.

Mesothelioma Research Findings

Nov 23, 2015

Reporting the findings of a multi-institutional study of trimodality therapy for malignant pleural mesothelioma which consisted of induction chemotherapy followed by extrapleural pneumonectomy and radiation therapy, Japanese researchers have concluded that while “this phase II study met the predefined primary endpoints… its risk/benefit ratio was not satisfactory.” See: Trimodality strategy for treating malignant pleural mesothelioma: results of a feasibility study of induction pemetrexed plus cisplatin followed by extrapleural pneumonectomy and postoperative hemithoracic radiation.

Towards an Asbestos Ban

Nov 19, 2015

Progressing along the road to an asbestos ban in 2018, steps are being taken in Sri Lanka to improve the quality and performance of safer roofing material and lower unit costs through increased levels of production, according to news released by Mahendra Jayasekara, President of Lanka Ceramic Council, at a press briefing held in Colombo. Jayasekara said the aim is to lower the price of ceramic roofing to that of asbestos tiles and thereby eliminate the cost advantage which encourages use. In recent days, asbestos lobbyists have aggressively attacked the government’s ban asbestos policy as premature. See: Sri Lanka to set standards for red clay roofing tiles upon asbestos ban.

Asbestos Workshop in Vietnam

Nov 17, 2015

On Wednesday, November 18, 2015, a workshop entitled “Using Chrysotile Safely and Under Control” will be held at the Central Institute for Economic Management in Hanoi. The program features John Hoskins who is listed as “an independent consultant, Royal Society of Chemistry,” as well as speakers from Vietnam’s Ministry of Construction, the Vietnam Academy of Social Science and the Institute for Economic Management. The subject of Hoskins’ presentation is “Research on affect [sic] of chrysotile on human health.” In 2014, Vietnam used just under 10,000 tonnes of asbestos. See: Workshop Agenda.

Asbestos Mortality in Korea

Nov 17, 2015

On Monday, November 9, 2015 members of the Ban Asbestos Network of Korea (BANKO), joined by a Japanese asbestos activist, mounted a public awareness outreach event in the country’s capital to highlight the Korean incidence of asbestos-related mortality; one person is dying every week from these diseases. More than one hundred and thirty victims from five regions took part in a mock funeral ceremony which attracted considerable media attention. On April 1, 2015, Korea achieved a total asbestos ban by removing the final derogations allowing its use for asbestos-containing gaskets and insulation for submarines and missiles. See: Photos of mock funeral ceremony.

Asbestos Propaganda Campaign

Nov 16, 2015

Sri Lanka’s English language Sunday Leader newspaper published a feature article this week (November 15) detailing new measures being taken by asbestos manufacturers and their trade association (the Fibre Cement Products Manufacturers Association), to force the government to retract plans to ban asbestos by 2018. In literature just released, the industry repeats discredited propaganda “proving” that the use of chrysotile (white) asbestos presents no human health risk, and is distributing leaflets around the country promoting “safe use” of asbestos-cement products and questioning the President’s motivation for banning asbestos. See: Manufacturers Defend Use Of Asbestos Sheets.

Asbestos Industry on Offensive

Nov 12, 2015

Sri Lanka’s Fibre Cement Products Manufacturers Association has hit back at government plans to ban chrysotile (white) asbestos, the only type of asbestos imported, saying that “it has been accepted that white asbestos has no adverse impact on human health.” Advancing discredited asbestos industry propaganda as evidence, the lobbyists claim the decision to ban asbestos by 2018 was “made without conducting a proper scientific study to prove health hazards linked to asbestos.” A national marketing campaign has been designed to counter the government’s “false” claims about the asbestos hazard. See: Asbestos industry cries foul over 2018 ban.

Court Orders Environmental Audits

Nov 2, 2015

Last week (October 29, 2015), India’s Green Tribunal ordered the states of Rajasthan, Karnataka, Jharkhand and Andhra Pradesh to prepare lists of derelict asbestos mines, submit these lists to the Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM), and formulate and implement joint plans for environmental asbestos audits of each site with scientific experts. It further ordered that the joint inspection reports of each state with detailed recommendations for the remediation of contaminated sites be published on the IBM website prior to being submitted to the Green Tribunal on December 20, 2015. See: National Green Tribunal Decision October 29, 2015.

Epidemiologists Quantify Epidemic

Nov 1, 2015

A research project has developed the first model for predicting mortality from the asbestos-related cancer mesothelioma and asbestosis in Korea. Having quantified the amount of asbestos used, the scientists calculated that between 2014 to 2036, up to 3,476 people could die; by 2031, it was predicted that a maximum of 555 deaths would occur from exposures to asbestos-containing slate buildings. These figures exclude deaths from other asbestos-related cancers and respiratory conditions. See: Predicting the mortality from asbestos-related diseases based on the amount of asbestos used and the effects of slate buildings in Korea.

Asbestos Cancer in China

Oct 20, 2015

A paper just published in the American Journal of Industrial Medicine, which investigated the effects of exposures to chrysotile asbestos on people in Southeast China, confirmed the existence of a “cluster of peritoneal and pleural mesothelioma in women… (all of whom) had been exposed to asbestos through work in asbestos textile workshops or living in a house where asbestos hand-spinning was practiced.” The authors recommend that the mining and use of asbestos be terminated to prevent the occurrence of a mesothelioma epidemic in China. See: Asbestos Textile Production Linked to Malignant Peritoneal and Pleural Mesothelioma in Women: Analysis of 28 Cases in Southeast China.

Pathway to Asbestos Ban

Oct 15, 2015

Following up on a public pledge made on August 12, 2015 to ban asbestos in 2018, the President of Sri Lanka Maithripala Sirisena hosted discussions this week involving senior civil servants and civil society stakeholders which were focused on the implementation of a program to create: public awareness of the asbestos hazard, awareness of the availability of asbestos-free products and demand for these materials. A key point of discussion was on the use of asbestos-free roofing products and construction materials for schools, hospitals and other public buildings. See: The President focuses special attention on regulating the use of alternatives for asbestos.

National Recognition of Asbestos Threat

Oct 9, 2015

A press release issued on October 7, 2015 by India’s Ministry of Labour and Employment announced that a permanent and unique asbestos and silica resource had been set up at the Regional Labour Institute (RLI) in the Northern state of Haryana to “generate awareness among the stakeholders of silica and asbestos handling units on different aspects of health & safety.” The new center in the city of Faridabad was inaugurated during the 54th Conference of Chief Inspectors of Factories held recently at RLI to promote the “safety and health of the workers at national level.” See: First Safety & Health Exhibition Center on Asbestos & Silica at RLI Faridabad.

Asbestosis Diagnosis in India

Oct 8, 2015

Dr. Jayshree Chander, a specialist in Occupational and Environmental Medicine, was awarded an IBAS travel bursary to facilitate her participation at an asbestosis diagnosis camp in Kolkata in September 2015. Commenting on this experience, Dr. Chander said: “most of the occupational health issues of Indian workers, including asbestos related diseases, are being addressed essentially on a volunteer basis by a handful of qualified and altruistic professionals. The problems are preventable, the causes multifactorial, the needs immense, and a meaningful, sustainable interdisciplinary strategy has yet to be developed.”

Asbestos Diagnosis Camp

Sep 30, 2015

On September 24, 2015, a diagnosis camp was set up by the Occupational Health and Safety Center at the Kolkata premises of the Kamal Tiwari trade union. This site was across the street from the Everest Industries asbestos factory. The manufacture of asbestos-cement construction products started there in 1938 under the ownership of the British company T&N Ltd. Fifteen workers and/or former workers were screened by Dr. V. Murlidhar and his medical team; four were diagnosed with asbestosis. Claims for these injuries will be made against the T&N Trust; claims for two other similarly affected workers from this factory have succeeded. See: Photo of workers being interviewed by medical team.

Roadmap to Phase-out Asbestos Use

Sep 25, 2015

An asbestos workshop was held in Hanoi on September 22, 2015 by the Vietnam Union of Science and Technology Associations, the Health Ministry’s Environment Health Management Department and the Vietnam Ban Asbestos Network during which speakers discussed various facets of the national asbestos policy and highlighted hazards posed by the continuation of consumption. The Government is now developing a roadmap for the phasing out of asbestos in roofing products by 2020. There are currently more than 40 factories throughout the country manufacturing asbestos roofing material. See: Asbestos in roof sheets still a threat to workers.

Asbestos Cancer Diagnoses in Rajasthan

Sep 16, 2015

The Mine Labour Protection Campaign Trust, a non-governmental organization based in the State of Rajasthan, has reported the diagnoses of 15 cases of the rare asbestos cancer, mesothelioma with a further 62 cases suspected. News of this disease cluster was widely reported in the State as well as via media outlets throughout India. India is the world’s largest importer of asbestos having in 2014 imported ~380,000 tonnes. The majority of asbestos used in India is for the production of building materials such as roofing slates and pipes; most at-risk workers are employed in the unorganized sector with no union protection. See: 15 cases of rare cancer detected a first in Rajasthan.

Ban Asbestos Progress in Asia

Sep 14, 2015

Delegates at the 2015 meeting of the Asian Ban Asbestos Network in Hanoi last week considered regional developments with a particular focus on recent asbestos bans introduced in Hong Kong and Nepal and the announcement by the President of Sri Lanka that the country would prohibit asbestos by 2018. There was a great deal of interest in the roadmap presented by a representative of the Vietnam Ministry of Health which aimed to end asbestos use in Vietnam by 2020. Work has been ongoing in Vietnam for over a decade into the development of asbestos-free technology. See: Vietnam: A-BAN takes stock of the asbestos campaign in the region.

Call for Asbestos Ban

Sep 14, 2015

A press release issued on September 12, 2015 by the (Thai) National Health Commission (NHC) called for the “global blacklisting” of chrysotile (white) asbestos and urged stakeholders including the NHC, the Ministry of Public Health, the Thai Health Promotion Foundation and consumer protection organizations to share information to protect at-risk construction and other Thai workers. The NHC statement detailed several initiatives it had taken to progress the categorization of chrysotile as a type 4 hazardous substance for which production, import, export and possession are banned. See: NHCO demands asbestos to be blacklisted and Thailand insists on its dangers in global forums.

Making Vietnam Asbestos-Free

Sep 11, 2015

Scores of international delegates, local activists and interested parties took part in a meeting in Hanoi this week which considered Vietnam’s progress towards an asbestos ban. In attendance were representatives from more than 20 countries including: China, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Nepal, India, Pakistan, Australia, USA and the UK. The sponsorship and organization for this event came from the Asian Ban Asbestos Network, the Asia Monitor Resource Center, the Vietnam Ban Asbestos Network and other civil society partners. See: Group picture of ABAN 2015 delegates.

Provincial Remediation Program

Sep 2, 2015

On August 31, 2015, the provincial government of North Gyeongsang in eastern South Korea announced that it would undertake a multimillion dollar program (90 billion Korean won) to remove asbestos-cement roofing from 30,000 houses by 2021. According to the government’s timetable, the asbestos-cement roofing on 3,000-4,000 houses will be replaced each year. This will leave a shortfall of around 6,000 properties by 2021. Korea has a strict ban on asbestos and financial subsidies have been offered to remove contaminated material. See: North Gyeongsang Province to Remove Slate Roofs Full of Asbestos.

Asbestos Ban in 2018

Aug 30, 2015

Following up on a public pledge made on August 12, 2015 to ban asbestos in 2018, the President of Sri Lanka Maithripala Sirisena, yesterday reiterated his commitment to the ban during a ceremony held at President’s House. He recalled that previous plans to enact asbestos prohibitions had been scuppered but “today everybody is supporting that programme. Those decisions will be put into action without bowing down to any private company or institution… for the betterment of the country and the people.” See: Sri Lanka president to ban production of asbestos in 2018.

Asia’s Asbestos Danger

Aug 29, 2015

An essay about the dangers of asbestos has won first prize in a competition of the Asian Scientist Magazine. It details problems faced by one householder in Malaysia who discovered her dream home contained asbestos roofing materials. Despite reassurances from one Malaysian expert, another warned of the deadly health effects of asbestos inhalation. Although few countries in Asia publish data on asbestos exposure or deaths, using patterns observed in industrialized countries, one epidemiologist estimated that between 1994-2008 there were almost 8,000 unreported mesothelioma deaths in China, India and Thailand. See: Once An Industry Wonder, Now A Silent Killer.

Working Towards an Asbestos Ban?

Aug 24, 2015

At a seminar held last week in Phnom Penh, hundreds of delegates joined government officials and Cambodian and international experts to consider the occupational and public health hazards posed by the continuing use of asbestos. The event, which was organized by the Cambodian Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training and Union Aid Abroad (APEHDA), an overseas humanitarian aid agency of the Australian Council of Trade Unions, provided the opportunity to progress discussions on the formation of a national asbestos profile as recommended by the World Health Organization. See: Picture of Symposium Delegates.

Minister Commits to Asbestos Ban

Aug 20, 2015

At an asbestos symposium in Phnom Penh on August 19, Cambodia’s Minister of Labour Sam Heng confirmed the country’s continuing use of asbestos. Since 2009, the value of asbestos imports has grown from $1.3 to $4 million/year. Government speakers joined experts from Australia, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Laos and the World Health Organization to consider the implications for public and occupational health of asbestos consumption, with Minister Heng telling delegates: “We are in the process of conducting a study, after which we will ask the government to stop the import and use of asbestos in order to ensure health security in the work place.” See: Gov’t eyes ban on asbestos.

Ban Asbestos Mobilization

Aug 17, 2015

A memorandum issued last week by APHEDA, an Australian Agency tasked with overseas humanitarian work, documents the mobilization of support for the ban asbestos campaign in Vietnam amongst government ministers, trade unions and civil society groups over the last five years, and highlights the importance of the Vietnam Ban Asbestos Network (VN Ban). Currently, a proposal by the Deputy Prime Minister for a 2020 national asbestos ban is being considered. During a time when the environmental rights movement is growing in Vietnam, the campaign to ban asbestos is gaining vital grassroots support. See: Stopping the Asbestos Death Trade in Vietnam.

Partial Asbestos Ban in 3 Years?

Aug 14, 2015

On August 12, 2015, during his keynote address to a Colombo symposium on the subject of “Powering Growth through Collaboration,” Sri Lanka’s President Maithripala Sirisena told delegates that his government intends to address the public health hazard posed by asbestos. Consultations at cabinet level are underway to implement a ban on the import of asbestos roofing material by 2018. In 2012, 2013 and 2014, Sri Lanka consumed 54,704, 22,953 and 52,214 tonnes of raw asbestos fiber, respectively. See: Sri Lanka President assures to take steps to ban import of asbestos roofing sheets by 2018.

Consumers Shun China’s Exports

Jul 31, 2015

After the 2012 asbestos scandal involving Chinese cars, Australian consumers are opting for vehicles from other countries according to an article released today. Before asbestos engine components were discovered in Chinese cars exported to Australia by Great Wall Motors, more than 12,000 Chinese cars had been purchased that year. Of the 1.1 million new vehicles bought by Australians in 2014, only 4,200 were made in China. Asbestos and asbestos containing-products have been banned in Australia since 2003. See: Haval stalls as Chinese car sales evaporate in Australia.

Cancer Elevated in Shipbreaking Workers

Jul 21, 2015

Research amongst a cohort of 4,427 asbestos-exposed former shipbreaking workers from Taiwan has documented an elevated incidence of overall cancer, oesophagus cancer, liver and intrahepatic bile duct cancer, trachea, bronchus, and lung cancer. The researchers stated that “overall cancer, esophagus cancer, and trachea, bronchus, and lung cancer were seen in a dose-dependent relationship with asbestos exposure” and urged that a surveillance program be set up to monitor the health of asbestos-exposed workers to enable early detection and treatment to take place. See: Cancer Attributable to Asbestos Exposure in Shipbreaking Workers: A Matched-Cohort Study.

States Ordered to Conduct Surveys

Jul 12, 2015

India’s National Green Tribunal (NGT), a specialist body set up in 2010 to “handle environmental disputes involving multi-disciplinary issues,” has ordered the governments of Odisha, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Jharkhand to produce scientific reports on the state of asbestos mining, the environmental impact of the mining legacy and the incidence of asbestos-related diseases in their States. Despite assurances of the Indian Bureau of Mines that all asbestos mining has ceased in India, doubts remain said NGT judicial member U D Salvi. See: NGT asks 5 mineral-rich states to survey all asbestos mines.

Mesothelioma in Asbestos Textile Workers

Jul 7, 2015

As a result of re-evaluations of forty-three patients diagnosed with peritoneal or pleural mesothelioma between 2003 and 2010 at a hospital in Southeast China, scientists have reported this month that all the members of this cohort were females, and all of them had had occupational and/or occupational exposure to chrysotile (white) asbestos. The majority of the patients were from two towns which had many small asbestos textile workshops. See: Asbestos textile production linked to malignant peritoneal and pleural mesothelioma in women: Analysis of 28 cases in Southeast China.

Action on Asbestos Stalemate?

Jul 6, 2015

The Thai Government agreed to ban asbestos in 2010, yet no ban has been adopted. This failure to act was highlighted in a recent statement by the National Health Commission (NHC); steps are now being taken by the NHC to coordinate action on this and other policy decisions. Confirming the continuation of pressure by asbestos stakeholders at a July 3 NHC meeting, Thailand’s Vice Prime Minister said that according to the Canadian Ambassador chrysotile asbestos from Canada was still being sold to Thailand. See: NHC has the health minister to push for the implementation of resolutions from the National Health Assembly.

Delegation Visits Amagaski City

Jun 29, 2015

Delegates from Belgium and Italy joined Japanese asbestos activists on June 26, 2015 at a meeting with the Mayor of Amagasaki City, a town which has been devastated by asbestos pollution created by the industrial operations of the Kubota company. The international visitors included Bruno Pesce and Alessandro Pugno from AFEVA, one of Italy’s most high-profile and active asbestos victims’ groups, and Eric Jonckheere, President of the Belgian Asbestos Victims Group. The delegation also took part in events to mark the 10th anniversary of the foundation of the Amagasaki Association of Victims and Families of Asbestos Victims. See: Photo of Meeting.

Delays Created Environmental Epidemic

Jun 28, 2015

Failure by the Kubota company, one of Japan’s major asbestos manufacturers, to prevent hazardous environmental asbestos contamination near its former Kanzaki plant has produced an epidemic of asbestos-related cancer amongst people in the city of Amagasaki. In 1988, a doctor wrote on the notes of a mesothelioma patient “no history of working with asbestos… If a connection with asbestos were to be made, it would be the fact that this patient's home is located near the Kanzaki plant.” See: Silence over asbestos-related cancer deaths in 1980s draws renewed condemnation.

Healthy Profits, Sick Workers

Jun 8, 2015

A feature article published today in India, highlights the plight of workers such as 64-year old Chinnapan Chinnakannu, who has been suffering from asbestosis since 2007, having received hazardous exposures whilst employed at the Gujarat Composites factory. The deterioration of Mr. Chinnakannu’s condition is contrasted with the healthy profits made by India’s growing asbestos industry which is currently worth $1.4 billion. Asbestos commercial and government vested interests deny the asbestos hazard, alleging that “health concerns are simply overblown.” See: India asbestos industry thrives despite health warnings.

Asia’s Asbestos Challenge

Jun 8, 2015

The International Commission on Occupational Health held the 31st International Congress on Occupational Health in Seoul from May 31 to June 5, 2015. On, June 4, there a workshop entitled: Asbestos Problems in Asia was addressed by key regional asbestos experts including: Professor Domyung Paek, Dr. Yeyong Choi and Dr. Yeonsil Kang (Korea), Mohit Gupta (India), Sanjiv Pandita (Hong Kong), and Sugio Furuya (Japan). The subjects they covered included the diagnosis of asbestos diseases, asbestos campaigns by civil society groups, and the suitability of science and technology studies for understanding the asbestos risk. See: Asbestos Problems in Asia.

Asbestos Mobilization in Japan

Jun 1, 2015

High-profile activities involving thousands of asbestos victims, campaigners, trade unionists and government officials took place in Tokyo between May 22 and 30, 2015. The 7th anniversary of landmark litigation on behalf of construction workers against the government and former asbestos manufactures was marked on May 22 with a huge public rally in the capital. One week later, members of the Japan Association of Mesothelioma and Asbestos-Related Disease and their Families met with officials from Ministries of Labor, Health and Environment. The following day was the annual meeting of the Ban Asbestos Network of Japan (BANJAN). See: Photo May 22, 2015 rally.

Asbestos Issues in Asia

May 22, 2015

The latest issue of the Occupational Safety and Health Rights Newsletter (Number 34), a quarterly publication on occupational Health and safety issues in Asia, has just been published. The bumper edition contains many stories about asbestos developments in Asia, including news of grassroots mobilization in India in the run-up to the May 2015 meeting of the Rotterdam Convention, an update on asbestos public outreach programs from Indonesia and a report of a memorial service for asbestos victims in Japan. Also featured are brief reports from key organizations collaborating in the campaign to halt the use of asbestos in Asia. See: Occupational Safety and Health Rights Newsletter.

Activists Condemn Government Position

May 14, 2015

A press release issued today by the Occupational and Environmental Health Network of India (OEHNI) exposes the duplicitous position taken by the government of India during this week’s discussions at the Rotterdam Convention. India was one of a handful of parties to the Convention to block the listing of chrysotile (white) asbestos on the prior informed consent list using “bogus science” and advocating “controlled use.” The OEHNI spokesman urges the Prime Minister to reverse this position and support action needed to protect occupational and public health. See: OEHNI Press Release.

Commentary Calls for Asbestos Action

May 9, 2015

An article appeared on May 8, 2015 which questioned the Indian government’s policy regarding the inclusion of white asbestos on a list of hazardous substances under a UN protocol. This issue will be debated in Geneva in the week beginning May 12. India has changed its position on listing chrysotile in the past but there is no indication that the Indian delegate will support listing this time around. Data quoted in this article substantiates the risk to Indian workers and the deadly health consequences of asbestos usage for the general population. See: Millions of lives at stake as India makes up its mind whether white asbestos is deadly.

Civil Society Calls for Asbestos Ban

May 5, 2015

In the run-up to next week’s UN discussion at the meeting of the Rotterdam Convention about designating chrysotile asbestos as a hazardous substance subject to minimal trade regulations, the Occupational Health and Safety Association (OHSA), an NGO based in Gujarat, India, has called on the Indian government to take immediate steps to ban the use of all asbestos. According to OHSA activists, cases of asbestos cancer have been diagnosed by the Gujarat Cancer and Research Center, but state and national bodies continue to frustrate compensation claims brought by the injured. See: NGO calls for blanket ban on import of asbestos by Centre, state govt.

Call for Asbestos Ban in India

May 1, 2015

Asbestos victims graphically described the devastating impacts their diseases have had on their lives at a public meeting in New Delhi on April 30, 2015: “My life is in ruins because of asbestos. My chest feels like burning,” asbestosis sufferer Naran Mehra said. At the conclusion of the meeting (see photo of speakers), trade union leaders joined activists and the injured in issuing a series of demands which included an immediate national asbestos ban, support for UN action on asbestos under the Rotterdam Convention, measures to encourage safe asbestos removal and the use of safer products, and steps to increase medical capacity for the injured. See: Media Release April 30, 2015.

Calls for Asbestos Action

Apr 29, 2015

In the run-up to the upcoming meeting in Geneva of the Rotterdam Convention, Indian grassroots activists are organizing a series of public meetings to call for UN action to impose regulation on the global trade of chrysotile asbestos. On April 30, asbestos victims from Ahmedabad and Mumbai will be speaking publicly about the human toll of the widespread use of asbestos in India, the world’s biggest asbestos importer. The event, which is organized by the Occupational and Environmental Health Network of India (OEHNI), will take place at the Press Club of India in New Delhi. See: OEHNI Media Release.

Audit of Asbestos Mines Mandated

Mar 26, 2015

The Indian Bureau of Mines and the Environment Ministry (MoEF) have been ordered to produce a complete updated list of India’s asbestos mines by Justice U D Salvi of the National Green Tribunal. He wrote: “Asbestos mining not only gives rise to asbestos related cancer but also to the asbestosis. Even if the asbestos mining activity has been closed, scientific closure of such mines remains in question. Odisha is directed to answer whether the asbestos mines in the state have been scientifically closed or not, and further answer whether there have been cases of asbestosis.” See: National Green Tribunal asks MoEF to submit list of asbestos mines across country.

Criteria for Asbestos Diseases Revised

Mar 10, 2015

As of March 1, 2015, revisions made to criteria for the recognition of occupational diseases, including asbestos-related lung cancer and mesothelioma, came into effect in China. These included: for lung cancer – reduction in length of cumulative occupational exposure to 1+ year, increase in latency period to 15 years+; for mesothelioma – decrease in latency period from 15 to 10 years. From 2006 to 2014, there were 1,824 cases of asbestosis recognized and 118 cases of asbestos-related lung cancer and mesothelioma [18% of all occupational cancer cases (650)]. See: Amendments to Diagnostic Criteria for Occupational Diseases (in force from March 1, 2015).

Protest against Asbestos Factory

Mar 2, 2015

On February 28, 2015, residents and environmentalists stopped traffic when they took to the public highway to protest plans to construct an asbestos factory in the Anawilundawa region, located about 50 kilometers from the Sri Lanka capital of Colombo. Building the factory in this area could, the demonstrators claimed, adversely affect the health of the local community as well as impact on the biodiversity of the world-famous Anawilundawa bird sanctuary. The demonstration was called off when the factory owners agreed to halt construction. See: Protesters block Colombo-Puttalam road at Anawilundawa.

Supreme Court Asbestos Ruling

Feb 18, 2015

For the first time, on Feb 17, 2015 Japan’s Supreme Court upheld a judgment recognizing the negligence and liability of an asbestos-using company for a non-occupational asbestos-related death – that of Kojiro Yamauchi who for 20 years worked 200 meters from the Kuboto Corporation asbestos factory in Amagasaki, Hyogo Prefecture. By a unanimous decision, the five-panel Court, ordered Kubota to pay ¥31.9 million ($267,000) in damages to Mr. Yamauchi’s relatives. Both the Kobe District Court and Osaka High Court had ordered Kubota to pay damages to the Yamauchi family. See: Top court upholds Kubota’s liability in asbestos death case.

India and Asbestos: The Long View

Feb 9, 2015

The Dollar Business, a foreign trade magazine about India's trade policy, has just published a headline article examining the consequences of India’s position as the world’s largest market for asbestos imports. The 3-page feature includes interviews with the Executive Director of the Asbestos Cement Products Manufacturers’ Association, the Convener of the Ban Asbestos Network of India and the Coordinator of the International Ban Asbestos Secretariat. Highlighting the controversial nature of continuing use of an acknowledged carcinogen, the author contrasts the profitability of the asbestos sector with the health risks of exposures to Indian citizens. See: Is the Whole World Wrong?.

Calls for Asbestos Ban

Feb 1, 2015

Scientists are calling for an immediate ban on the use of asbestos-containing construction products in Sri Lanka; in 2013, national asbestos consumption was ~23,000t. In today’s issue of the Sunday Observer Dr. Waruna Gunathilake, head of the National Toxicology Information Unit, reported that: “It is now medically proven that long-term exposure to asbestos can cause respiratory problems and cancer. Research in recent years has proved this.” He called for consumers to use asbestos-free products in the run-up to national prohibitions and highlighted the lack of a “proper disposal system for asbestos waste in Sri Lanka.” See: Call to ban asbestos use and imports.

Call for Action on Asbestos Hazard

Jan 30, 2015

An online editorial queried the continued failure by the Government of Vietnam to act on the human health hazard posed by the country’s continuing use of asbestos. In Vietnam, there are 70 factories in 23 areas which manufacture asbestos-cement products, mostly for domestic use. Over the last decade, Vietnam has been one of the world’s top ten consumers of asbestos, using 79,000 tonnes in 2012 to produce 80 million square meters of asbestos-cement sheeting. At a conference in Hanoi last week, delegates were told of the World Health Organization’s position supporting an end to asbestos use. See: Vietnam hesitates to ban white asbestos use.

First Case of Mesothelioma in Mongolia

Jan. 19, 2015

A case report has just been published in the International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health that documents the first case of malignant mesothelioma in Mongolia. The forty-seven-year old female patient had worked at a thermal power plant in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia for twenty-eight years. Due to the industrial history of asbestos use in Mongolia, the authors “expect additional cases of mesothelioma, as well as other asbestos related diseases, will be identified in the future.” To identify affected patients, the authors are calling for the establishment of an asbestos-related disease registry. See: Mesothelioma in Mongolia: case report.

The Ties that Kill

Jan 10 2015

The Bangkok Post today reported the support of Thailand's industry minister Chakramon Phasukavanich for increased financial links with Russia, the country which supplies 80% of all asbestos imports to Thailand. From January to November 2014, Thailand purchased 525 million baht (US$16m) of Russian asbestos. Commenting on this trade, the Minister said: “If the use of asbestos is banned… the burden to replace all products that contain asbestos would fall on the government. This would require a lot of money.” In none of the countries that banned asbestos has this happened. See: Russia keen on closer ties.

Editorial Calling for Asbestos Ban

Jan 5, 2015

On January 4, 2015, the Bangkok Post issued a stinging rebuke to the Thai government for its failure in December 2014 to adopt a proposal by the Public Health Ministry to ban the use of asbestos. Having acknowledged the pro-ban stance of leading international agencies and the health risks posed by continued use, the article highlights the efforts of Professor Vithaya Kulsomboon, a leading anti-asbestos campaigner and member of the National Legislative Assembly. The fight by national vested interests to maintain the status quo is strengthened by international forces; it is suggested that trade links with Russia might be jeopardized by unilateral action. See: Asbestos inertia will cost lives.

India’s Invisible Asbestos Victims

Dec 22, 2014

The legacy of asbestos mining operations in the Indian State of Jharkhand, in the northeast of the country, persists in the lungs of local people and in the environment. Recent tests showed that up to 14.3% of the soil content in the vicinity of mines was asbestos. Despite the high level of hazard this poses, government officials and industry representatives continue to deny responsibility for the high incidence of disease in the communities near the mine sites. A case is now being brought in the environment court to force the polluters to undertake decontamination work, compensate the injured and establish a fund for future victims. See: Forgotten asbestos mine sickens Indian villagers.

Update on Victims’ Mobilization

Dec 20, 2014

As a result of continuing pressure exerted by Japanese asbestos victims’ groups, the Ministry of Labor disclosed the names of companies where asbestos-related diseases (ARDs) have been recognized as occupationally-caused. This information has been recorded by the victims’ groups on a database which can be consulted by the public. On December 18 and 19, the Japanese network of asbestos victims and their supporters operated a nationwide telephone consultation service for victims and their families. They received 200 calls. Japan has a high incidence of ARDs due to heavy use of asbestos. Asbestos was banned in phases, a full ban was reached in 2012. See: Japan Asbestos Profile.

Asbestos Use Continues in Vietnam!

Dec 19, 2014

Media reports from Hanoi indicate that the status quo regarding the use of chrysotile (asbestos) will remain unchanged for the foreseeable future after a meeting in the capital on December 17 which was addressed by pro-asbestos lobbyists from Latin America and the U.S. Urging the adoption of a national ban, health experts from the Vietnam Government cited data from international agencies substantiating the proven risks of exposure to all types of asbestos. Despite the known hazard, the Vice Minister of Construction Nguyen Tran Nam said there remained a lack of “convincing evidence.” See: Vietnam to stick to white asbestos, despite cancer concern.

Asbestos in the Asia-Pacific Region

Dec 17, 2014

The latest issue of the Asian-Pacific Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, published by the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, is devoted to the subject of asbestos. The articles contained include detailed examinations of national asbestos legacies and discussions of the actions being taken by international agencies to tackle the ensuing public and occupational health crisis that asbestos use has created. Of particular interest is the article: The ticking time-bomb of asbestos consumption in the Asian region by Australian authors Matthew Soeberg and Nico van Zandwijk. See: Asbestos issue of the Asian-Pacific Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety.

Fight to Ban Asbestos Continues

Dec 9, 2014

On December 10, 2014, government officials and civil servants will hear presentations by asbestos apologists sent to Vietnam to reassure decision makers that chrysotile asbestos can be used safely under “controlled conditions.” The industry propaganda they will be parroting was soundly condemned at a workshop (see: workshop photo) held last month in Hanoi the purpose of which was to develop a roadmap to ban asbestos in Vietnam. At the November meeting a spokesman for the Ministry of Health confirmed that asbestos was a health hazard and that cases of asbestos cancer had been diagnosed in Vietnam. See: Ban on asbestos use in Vietnam is urgent.

Battle to Ban Asbestos

Dec 7, 2014

A feature in the Bangkok Post on November 30, 2014 detailed the country’s ongoing battle over the future of the country’s asbestos industry. Despite a 2011 pledge given by the Cabinet to ban asbestos, no steps have been taken to implement prohibitions. The stakes are high and the opposition of vested interests to a ban remains fierce. Last month’s international asbestos conference in Bangkok was gatecrashed by the managing director of one of Thailand’s biggest asbestos manufacturers. Despite the aggressive stance of the Thai asbestos lobby, the Industry Ministry has introduced a new bill to ban asbestos in order to protect public and occupational health. See: The battle to ban asbestos.

National Tribunal Condemns Mining

Dec 5, 2014

Last month, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) castigated India’s Environment Ministry (MoEF) for failing to adequately respond to charges related to the continued mining of asbestos in India. An affidavit filed by the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) did not address the NGT’s questions about “what steps have been taken by the Ministry of Environment and Forests or any other authority of the State… (regarding whether) any asbestos mining was being carried on in any part of the State or not.” On December 23, further consideration will be given to this matter. See: Asbestos mining: NGT raps MoEF for vague response.

NGO Discloses Hospital Scandal

Nov 5, 2014

Asbestos contamination in hospitals in the UK, France and Australia has caused asbestos-related disease amongst nurses, doctors and hospital workers. New research by the Seoul-based Asian Citizen's Center for Environment and Health has confirmed that samples of ceiling tiles taken in October 2014 from 16 general hospitals in Korean provincial towns including Busan, Daegu, Gwangju tested positive for contamination with white (chrysotile) and brown (amosite) asbestos. The researchers found that the tiles exceeded permissible levels by up to 70 times. See: Asbestos found in 16 provincial hospitals.

Mesothelioma Incidence in Vietnam

Nov 4, 2014

The absence of data on asbestos cancers is often used as proof that this carcinogen can be used safely under controlled conditions. Vietnam is a major consuming country which, despite the development of alternative technologies, has not banned asbestos. Research reported at an asbestos cancer conference in October 2014, documented 148 cases of the asbestos cancer mesothelioma in Vietnam. The authors believe this figure is “likely to underestimate the true number of incident cases…” See: Estimating the incidence of malignant mesothelioma in Vietnam: a pilot descriptive population-based cancer registry study.

Government to Settle Asbestos Claims

Oct 23, 2014

A Japanese Minister apologized on October 21, 2014 for deaths caused by asbestos exposure and announced that following the Supreme Court ruling of October 9, 2014, the government is anxious to settle claims brought by the injured and surviving family members. Health, Labor and Welfare Minister Yasuhisa Shiozaki told a press conference that offers will be made to settle the lawsuit pending in the Osaka High Court related to exposures at asbestos factories in the Sennan area between 1958 and 1971. See: Gov't to promptly settle Osaka High Court asbestos suit.

Calls for Asbestos Ban

Oct 11, 2014

A report in the Thai media today details the support of the Federation of Occupational Health, Safety and Environment at Work, a member of the Thailand Ban Asbestos Network, for an immediate and comprehensive ban on the use of asbestos in Thailand. The consortium of groups calling for a ban reacted positively to a 2011 statement by the Thai cabinet supporting this action but nothing productive has been achieved due to political roadblocks since then. Industry’s dire predictions regarding the economic impact of a ban are groundless say critics as the cost of asbestos and non-asbestos roofing are the same. See: Work group promotes asbestos ban.

Failed Attack by Asbestos Lobby

Oct 7, 2014

Union leaders derailed an attack by the Association of Chrysotile Industries (CIC) on plans to lower asbestos threshold limit exposure levels in the Philippines. A CIC representative attended a working group meeting tasked with finalizing the National Programme for the Elimination of Asbestos-Related Diseases this month. Citing industry propaganda, he asserted that chrysotile (asbestos) was not toxic. His arguments were countered by medical and union experts. In a trade union press release, it was noted that in August 2014 CIC representatives enjoyed a visit to Brazil’s asbestos mine at the expense of the Eternit asbestos company. See: Trade Union press release.

Dialogue on Asbestos Risk

Oct 6, 2014

On October 4, two films were shown in Bangkok which highlighted the asbestos hazard. One was a documentary, entitled Dust: The Great Asbestos Trial, about Italy’s epidemic of asbestos disease and death; the other was a 10 minute film detailing the health risk posed by the use of chrysotile (white) asbestos in Thailand. The films were also viewable via an internet link. After the showing, there was a seminar held by the Thailand Ban Asbestos Network (see photo: T-BAN supporters) during which experts substantiated the hazard asbestos poses and called for an immediate ban. An asbestos lobbyist said that chrysotile asbestos did not present a health hazard. The event was covered by Thai TV.

10 Year Anniversary Marked in Tokyo

Oct 4, 2014

The tenth anniversary of the Japan Association of Mesothelioma and Asbestos-related Disease Victims and Their Families is being marked today at an international gathering in Tokyo attended by Japanese, Korean and Indonesian campaigners. A new video has been produced for this occasion. The first 1.43 minutes is a message (in Japanese) from an asbestos victim hospitalized in Hokkaido who is unable to join the activities. The rest of the 32 minute video is a touching tribute to the thousands of Japanese victims and supporters who have revolutionized their country’s asbestos dialogue. This film is highly recommended. See: Anniversary Video.

Calls for Asbestos Ban in Pakistan

Sep 20, 2014

A one-day national stakeholders conference was held in Lahore, Pakistan by the Building and Wood Workers’ Trade Union and its affiliates on September 3, 2014 to progress efforts to ban asbestos. The keynote speaker was Zahoor Awan, Secretary General of the Pakistan Workers Federation. Other eminent speakers included national labor leaders, international experts and representatives of asbestos victims. BWI General Secretary Ambet Yuson told delegates: “Asbestos kills, it is a danger to the workers, their families and the communities…” The delegates unanimously agreed a declaration calling for an asbestos ban in Pakistan. See: BWI supports Ban Asbestos Campaign in Pakistan.

Industry Pressure Delays Ban?

Sep 16, 2014

Despite a government pledge to ban asbestos made more than three years ago, no action has been taken. News is now circulating that the Ministry of Industry has issued a proposal to Minister Chakkamon Pasukwanit to implement a phased ban on asbestos products with the use of the first group – for wall linings, ceilings, doors and floor tiles – to be prohibited in two years while the second group – roof tiles, cement pipes, brake and clutch parts – will be banned in five years. Thai ban asbestos activists have expressed serious criticisms of this plan saying asbestos is a known killer and should be banned immediately. See: Delay in Asbestos Ban.

Progress on Asbestos Ban

Aug 27 2014

The Philippines imports $76.32 million worth of asbestos every year, even though this substance is a known carcinogen which is banned in the industrialized world. Parliamentarians in the Philippines are calling for a national ban of the import, manufacture, processing, use and distribution of asbestos and asbestos-containing products. In 2008, the 11th National Occupational Safety and Health Congress adopted a resolution supporting a total ban but no progress has been made on implementation. House Bill 4437 (The Asbestos Ban Act of 2014) has now been filed by Representatives Walden Bello and Ibarro Gutierrez III. See: Congressional Press Release.

Asbestos Threshold Limit Slashed

Aug 26, 2014

After protracted negotiations, the Associated Labor Unions and the Building and Woodworkers International have succeeded today in lowering the country’s threshold limit value for asbestos toxic dust from 0.5 to 0.1 fibers per cubic centimeter of air in an 8-hour work period. This change has been implemented in a revision of government guidelines for minimizing hazardous occupational asbestos exposures. Representatives from the Chrysotile Industry Association of the Philippines and the Chrysotile Information Center, Philippines vehemently opposed the revision saying it would adversely impact on the profitability of their businesses.

India’s Asbestos Time Bomb

Aug 14, 2014

As India’s asbestos sector grows rich, vested interests continue to promote the sale of a discredited technology with glitzy pseudo-scientific conferences, imported hired gun scientists and public statements proclaiming the innocuous nature of their product. Despite asbestos bans in industrialized countries and recommendations from international agencies that use should be stopped on health grounds, Indian sales of asbestos-cement construction materials are booming. Public opposition is on the rise with protesters destroying construction on a site earmarked for an asbestos factory in Bihar State. See: Asbestos still pushed in India and business is booming.

Lobbying for Asbestos Ban

Aug 13, 2014

On August 8, 2014, representatives of the Thailand Ban Asbestos Network (T-BAN) petitioned the Ministry of Industry (MOI) for an immediate ban on the use of asbestos, support for the use of safer materials, a national fund for victims and implementation of preventative measures and medical protocols. (see: T-BAN Statement). Commenting on the meeting, T-BAN representative Mrs. Somboon Seekamdokkae said “We asked the MOI to think about Thai people’s health and after 70 years, not to give the industry more time to kill citizens from asbestos-related diseases.” Sakda Pankla, the deputy director-general of the Department of Industrial Works, received the T-BAN delegation (see: photo of the meeting).

Petition For Asbestos Ban

Aug 12, 2014

On August 5, 2014, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Labor Organization (ILO) sent a letter to Vietnam authorities urging that action be taken to prohibit the use of asbestos in construction materials. WHO and ILO representatives highlighted the community health, economic and social security benefits of banning asbestos and urged Vietnam to develop a program to eliminate the use of asbestos. WHO and ILO offered to provide technical support for Vietnam to end asbestos-related diseases. See: WHO sends proposal to stop the use of asbestos to the Prime Minister.

Asia’s Asbestos Time Bomb

Aug 12, 2104

An article published today explores the disconnect between asbestos vested interests and civil society campaigners over whether or not India’s expanding asbestos sector is a good or bad thing for the country. While spokesmen for India's Asbestos Cement Products Manufacturers Association say they are providing a vital public service to the nation, activists say that the commercial exploitation of asbestos endangers not only workers but also members of the public. The opposition by local people to the construction of an asbestos-cement factory in Bihar State and the high-profile media campaign mounted by asbestos lobbyists are discussed. See: Asbestos pushed in Asia as product for the poor.

Asbestos Hazard for Shipbreakers

Aug 7, 2014

Shipbreaking workers, who spend their days dismantling ships on the beaches of Chittagong, work in extremely dangerous conditions and are exposed to a multitude of dangerous substances, including asbestos. The reality as described by the workers is far from that asserted by the yard owners who maintain that the workforce has all the protection required. An article informed by the experience of the Brussels-based NGO Shipbreaking Platform describes a cut-throat industry where both ships and workers are scrapped on a daily basis. See: Visiting the Deadly Shipbreaking Yards of Bangladesh.

Opportunities Following Ban?

Aug 4, 2014

Anticipating that Malaysia will ban asbestos in 2015, a major manufacturer of asbestos-free cement has established a trading office in the capital. SHERA, a leading non-asbestos fiber-cement maker in Asia, produces a range of lightweight fiber cement roofs that were previously unavailable in Malaysia. The company says they are “not only easy to install, but are also durable and free from asbestos.” SHERA is a subsidiary of the Mahaphant Group, a Thailand-based manufacturer of fiber cement boards, siding and roofing. The multinational has commercial operations throughout Asia, Oceania, Africa, the Middle East and Europe. See: Asbestos-free roofs now available in Malaysia.

Criticism of Vietnam Asbestos Policy

Jul 28, 2014

Opposition to Vietnam’s continued use of asbestos, a known carcinogen, is increasing daily. An article appeared today in the online English language VietNamNet.Bridge news outlet which highlighted the fact that the asbestos policy of Vietnam, a member of the World Health Organization (WHO), contradicts WHO advice and international trends. The article cited the opinion of Dr Le Van Trinh, Deputy Chair of the Vietnam Labor Safety Association who believes that “it is necessary to stop using asbestos in production and daily life as soon as possible.” See: Vietnam ignores scientists’ warnings about asbestos use.

Ban Asbestos Momentum Increasing

Jul 25, 2014

Vietnam’s Ministry of Health is backing plans to add asbestos to the country’s list of prohibited toxic chemicals. Asbestos is mostly used to produce asbestos-cement (AC) construction materials in Vietnam. Thirty-six AC manufacturers produce 100Mm2 of roofing sheets per year. Vietnam is one of Asia’s biggest asbestos users and the country’s asbestos industrial sector backed by foreign stakeholders is aggressively lobbying the government to allow consumption to continue even though a national program to devise asbestos-free technologies has been successful. See: Vietnam considers ban on asbestos in fibre cement boards.

Calls for Thai Government Action

Jul 22, 2014

A letter faxed on July 21, 2014 to the Thai authorities by representatives of the Asian Ban Asbestos Network and the International Ban Asbestos Secretariat is today (July 22) featured in an online article on a Thai website. In the run-up to a crucial meeting in August 2014, the letter, which was translated into Thai (see: English version of letter), urges the Head of the National Council for Peace and Order General Prayut Chanocha to support the April 2011 decision by the Thai Government to ban the import of asbestos on the grounds of public health – to avoid a tsunami of avoidable and deadly disease. See: International Calls for Thai asbestos ban.

Asbestosis in Maharashtra

Jul 22, 2014

A scandal is unfolding in the Indian State of Maharashtra involving personnel from an asbestos company, private doctors, factory inspectors and state authorities. For 15 years, 34-year old Yogesh Sawant had worked with asbestos in the Ashadeep Frictions Ltd. factory. When he fell ill, he was examined by company doctors who assured him that he was fine. At the end of 2013, he was seen by experts from the Union Ministry of Labour. He and co-worker Manoj Saroj were confirmed to be suffering from asbestosis; they are the first individuals with this condition to be recognized in the State. See: They lied to me for 15 years of my life, says asbestosis-afflicted labourer.

Asbestos Health Warnings!

Jul 21, 2014

A seminar entitled “How Asbestos Affects Health” took place in Hanoi on July 17, 2014; the event was organized by the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Science and Technology and the World Health Organization (WHO). Having detailed the health consequences of human asbestos exposures, the Vietnamese guidelines to protect occupational health were explained by Ministry of Health officials. Despite WHO advice that the best way to prevent asbestos-related diseases was a total ban on its use, since 2000 Vietnam has imported, on average, 6,000 tons of asbestos per year, most of which is incorporated into asbestos-cement products. See: Asbestos may cause harmful health: WHO.

Environmental Compensation Tops $100m

Jul 7, 2014

According to an article in the Japanese press on July 6, 2014, the Kubota Corporation has now paid out a total of $100+ million to 265 claimants with asbestos-related diseases who were environmentally exposed to asbestos liberated by processing operations at the company’s Kanzaki plant. These payments were made following a 2006 agreement negotiated by the company and local victims and relatives from the community. Japan, a major and long-standing asbestos consumer, did not implement a comprehensive ban on the use of all asbestos-containing products until 2012.

Experts Call for Asbestos Ban

Jul 4, 2014

At a meeting organized by the Vietnam Union of Science and Technology Associations in Hanoi last week, experts called for asbestos to be banned due to the human health hazard posed by asbestos-containing products. Research by the Ministry of Health documented the deadly risk not only to workers but also to people living near asbestos processing facilities or under asbestos roofs. Replacing asbestos with safer products is possible as well as advisable said Dr Le Van Trinh, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Labour Safety Science and Technology Association. See: Asbestos use in construction a labour hazard: experts.

Ministerial Asbestos Briefing

Jun 11, 2014

Civil society activists today briefed India’s Minister of Mines, Steel and Labor on the urgent need to ban asbestos to end the human suffering caused by exposure to a substance designated by international authorities as a human carcinogen. Details were provided of the high incidence of asbestos-related diseases amongst people working in various sectors including shipbreaking and asbestos processing. A copy of a 2011 document issued by the Indian government was shown to the Minister which clearly stated that the government was “considering the ban on use of chrysotile asbestos in India to protect the workers and the general population.” See: Press Release and Photo of Gopal Krishna briefing Minster.

Japanese Asbestos Victims Meet

Jun 3, 2014

On Saturday May 31, Ban Asbestos Japan (BANJAN) held its 26th annual meeting in Tokyo. The discussions were preceded by an outdoor rally and outreach activities with members of the public. The subject addressed during the discussions was “Ten years after the Global Asbestos Congress 2004.” The keynote presentation was given by Professor Ken Takahashi. Other speakers included asbestos victims, family members, Dr. Yuji Natori and trade unionist Satoru Takyu. Several BANJAN members who took part are due to take part in discussions with Korean and Indonesian activists in Seoul this week. See: Picture of BANJAN meeting.

Asian Asbestos Conference

May 30, 2014

The third international workshop for Asian asbestos victims will take place in Seoul on June 12-13, 2014. Participants will include asbestos victims, campaigners and experts from Korea, Japan and Indonesia who will consider measures to improve the care of and support for asbestos patients in their countries. The sessions have been organized by the Ban Asbestos Network of Korea, the Japan Association of Mesothelioma and Asbestos Related Disease Victims and their Families and the Indonesia Ban Asbestos Network. Sponsorship has been obtained from a consortium of groups including the International Ban Asbestos Secretariat. See: Workshop Poster.

Mesothelioma: Research Findings

May 30, 2014

Doctors at the Samsung Medical Center in Seoul undertook a study of 66 pleural malignant mesothelioma patients over an 18-year period beginning in 1995. The age range of the patients was from 28 to 80 years old with an average age of 56.84 years; average overall survival was 15.39 months. One third of the patients underwent a pneumonectomy. Asbestos-exposure data was missing in 65 out of the 66 cases. The researchers concluded that: “The combination of calretinin, Wilms tumor 1, HMBE-1, and thyroid transcription factor-1 may provide high diagnostic accuracy in diagnosing mesothelioma.” See: Pleural mesothelioma: an institutional experience of 66 cases.

Death of Worker under Investigation

May 29, 2014

On May 28, 2014, the Bihar Human Rights Commission (BHRC) directed the District Magistrate to appear before the Commission on July 9, 2014 to report on the operations of the Ramco asbestos-cement factory in Bihiya; specifically the Magistrate was instructed to address the issue of the lung cancer fatality of former Ramco asbestos worker Virendra Jumar Singh. The BHRC had been petitioned about this matter by the ToxicsWatch Alliance which was seeking its intervention to protect workers and communities from the hazardous repercussions of Ramco’s asbestos processing operations. See: Bihar Human Rights Commission Order May 28, 2014.

New Workplace Regulations

May 27, 2014

From May 30, 2014 tighter restrictions will be enforced to protect workers from the hazards of asbestos exposures in Singapore. The new Workplace Safety and Health (Asbestos) Regulations, which replace the Factories (Asbestos) Regulations, mandate that asbestos audits be carried out before any refurbishment or demolition work is undertaken. The surveys must be conducted by someone trained to a standard recognized by the Singapore Workforce Skills Qualifications framework. Although Singapore banned the import of raw asbestos in 1989, there is no ban on the use of asbestos-containing products. See: New asbestos safety rules take effect from Friday.

Mesothelioma in Gujarat

May 23, 2014

In a letter written on May 7, 2014, the Gujarat Cancer Research Institute in Ahmedabad confirmed that between 2008 and 2014 sixty-six patients with mesothelioma had been treated. This information was released after a determined effort by grass-roots activist Manwar Raghunath who in 2009 and 2014 submitted requests under the Right to Information Act 2005. Eighty-nine percent (59) of the patients had pleural mesothelioma and 11% (7) had peritoneal mesothelioma. There were no cases of pericardial mesothelioma. India remains the biggest importer of asbestos fiber; in 2012, the latest year for which data are available, national usage was 493,086 tonnes.

Asbestos-related Lung Cancer

May 13, 2014

Yesterday (May 12), a claimant’s verdict was issued by Judge Ryoji Kudo of the Kobe District Court who dismissed an earlier ruling which found that lung cancer contracted by a 60-year old construction worker was not caused by occupational asbestos exposure due to the relatively low level of asbestos fibers in his body. The judge ruled that the government’s criteria for the recognition of asbestos-related disease based on the number of asbestos fibers was unreasonable. The verdict recognized the cause of death as occupational asbestos exposure. See: Kobe court rules criteria for recognizing asbestos-related lung cancer unreasonable.

Lung Cancer Monitoring at Hotspots

Apr 28, 2014

Government funding has been allocated for the 2015 launch of a pilot lung cancer screening program of at-risk residents in Japanese municipalities where asbestos factories had been located. In 2006, the Environment Ministry undertook health surveys of residents in collaboration with local governments of seven regions where asbestos plants had been sited, including Amagasaki, Hyogo Prefecture. Asbestos consumption continued in Japan long after other developed countries had banned its use. Japanese prohibitions were phased in over a period of years with the final use of asbestos being made illegal in 2012. See: Asbestos lung project in Japan set for 2015.

India’s Asbestos Trade

Apr 22, 2014

A recent snapshot of Indian asbestos shipments obtained from a commercial website is informative about some aspects of the country’s huge trade in this acknowledged carcinogen. Incomplete data for imports over two days this month showed imports of raw chrysotile (white) asbestos fiber from Russia, Kazakhstan, China and Brazil; the majority was from Russia. Asbestos exports shipped on April 10-12 were of fabricated asbestos fibers, concrete asbestos [stet] and compressed asbestos fiber jointing sheets, sent to Sudan, Yemen and Brazil. For samples of Indian asbestos-trade data, see Cybex Import Data and Cybex Export Data.

National Asbestos Legacy

Apr 16, 2014

The Japan Association of Mesothelioma and Asbestos Related Disease Victims and their Families has reported the deaths of people who had worked at recycling sites where asbestos-contaminated hemp bags were processed; family members of these workers and local residents have also died from exposure to the asbestos generated at this site. Ten deaths have been recorded in the city of Sakai from asbestos-related cancers. The situation at similar recycling plants in Tokyo, Fukuoka Prefecture and Saitama Prefecture remains to be clarified. See: 10 people in hemp sack recycling centers reportedly dead from asbestos-related sickness.

No Asbestos-Cement Cartel?

Mar 6, 2014

On February 11, 2014, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) dismissed charges related to the existence of an asbestos-cement cartel operated by the Asbestos Cement Products Manufacturers Association(ACPMA) (see: CCI ruling). The watchdog said that “there is no evidence on record to suggest cartelisation by ACS manufacturers.” The CCI had been tasked with this investigation in late 2012 by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office. According to the 15-page ruling, the “the role of ACPMA is to … to promote the use of ACS and fight against anti-asbestos lobbies...” See: CCI finds no cartelisation in asbestos cement products mkt.

Hong Kong’s New Asbestos Trains?

Mar 5, 2014

From 2008 to 2012, the Hong Kong Mass Transit Railway (MTR) bought 22 trains from the Changchun Railway Vehicles Co., Ltd, part of the China North Locomotive and Rolling Stock Industry Corporation. Although the MTR stipulated that no asbestos be used, the same series of China-made vehicles imported to New Zealand was recently found to be contaminated with asbestos. The Hong Kong Workers’ Health Centre is urging that a thorough examination of the suspected trains is undertaken in order to protect the health of staff and the public. See: Asbestos scare prompts checks on China-made trains.

Gujarat Court Acts on Workers’ Health

Feb 19, 2014

Concerns over lung function abnormalities amongst workers at power stations led to a case heard last month by the Supreme Court (SC). The SC directed high courts to ascertain levels of healthcare provided to individuals at coal-fired thermal power plants in India. Pursuant to these instructions, the Gujarat high court has demanded that authorities supervising the State’s 11 power units submit documentation detailing their health and safety regimes. High levels of asbestosis and other asbestos-related conditions have been found amongst power station workers. See: Workers' health: Gujarat high court notice to 11 power units.

Commission Upholds Asbestos Complaint

Feb 13, 2014

A commission appointed by the Pakistan authorities to investigate a criminal complaint over the occupational and environmental hazard created by Dadex Eternit Ltd., an asbestos manufacturer in Karachi has found that the company’s occupational health and safety precautions were inadequate (see: Two million Karachiites face cancer threat). The 25-page ruling verified the threat posed by the presence of chrysotile asbestos to workers, family members and the public in Gandap Town and found that air samples collected up to 15 km from the factory also contained chrysotile asbestos. See: Commission Report.

Millions at risk!

Feb 10, 2014

The nearly 3 million residents of Quezon City (QC), the country’s most populated municipality and part of Metropolitan Manila, have once again been warned about the health hazard posed by asbestos-contaminated materials incorporated within residential properties. The population in QC, however, is not only at risk from asbestos building products, such as the many remaining asbestos-cement roofs in QC, but also from asbestos-containing products sold in the open market. The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines and environmental groups are calling for a ban on the import, processing, sale and use of all asbestos products. See: Residents warned vs. exposure to asbestos.

Ban Asbestos Conference in Pakistan

Feb 3, 2014

On Saturday, February 1, the first ban asbestos conference in Pakistan was held in Karachi. Victims, medical experts, academics, lawyers and politicians addressed the meeting; they confirmed that exposure to all types of asbestos can be lethal. Despite this known hazard, “nothing has been done to ban it by the Pakistani government,” organizer Haroon Ahmed said. In his talk Muhammed Yaseen Azad, a former president of Supreme Court Bar Council, pledged to investigate asbestos cases pending before the Supreme Court and to lobby for judicial action. See: Banned across the world, asbestos continues to plague Pakistan.

Summons Issued for Asbestos Pollution

Jan 30, 2014

On January 20, 2014, the National Green Tribunal in New Delhi issued a ruling which allowed a case regarding hazardous contamination posed by abandoned chrysotile asbestos mines in Roro, Chaibasa, Jharkhand to proceed. Indian activists have established the prevalence of asbestos-related diseases amongst local people and former mine workers. The miners as well as the mines were abandoned in 1983 when Hyderabad Asbestos Cement Products Ltd. (now known as Hyderabad Industries Limited) ceased operations. Asbestos-containing debris dumped in this region adds to the hazardous situation faced by 14 nearby communities. See: Ruling of National Green Tribunal.

Asbestos Case in India’s Supreme Court

Jan 29, 2014

Arguments began on Monday, January 27, 2014 at the Indian Supreme Court over whether Google was guilty of defaming Visaka, a producer of asbestos-cement building products, for hosting an article by ban asbestos campaigner Gopal Krishna which “contained allegations Visaka was being protected because it was backed by leaders of the ruling Congress party.” Google India challenged Visaka’s charges at the Andhra Pradesh High Court. It lost that case in 2011, after which it appealed to the Supreme Court, claiming it shouldn't be held responsible for everything on its sites as it cannot control what users post. See: Google Takes Defamation Case to India's Supreme Court.

Asbestos Exposure and Digestive Cancers

Jan 24, 2014

A new paper in Occupational and Environmental Medicine detailed research using data collected from a cohort of Chinese chrysotile asbestos miners and mill workers over 26 years that found “a clear exposure-response relationship between asbestos dust exposure and mortality from stomach cancers …” The paper concluded that there was “additional evidence for the association between exposure to chrysotile mining dust and excess mortality from digestive cancers, particularly stomach cancer.” Excess mortality was also observed from oesophageal and liver cancers. See: Exposure to chrysotile mining dust and digestive cancer mortality in a Chinese miner/miller cohort.

Industry Lobby Blocks Asbestos Ban

Jan 24, 2014

In a paper commissioned by the International Labor Organization, the destructive role played by the asbestos lobby is highlighted. Author Somkiat Siriruttanapruk states: “In spite of policy commitments by the previous Government, the deadline for banning asbestos in the country has been postponed on a number of occasions… the continuous interruption of the process by pro-asbestos agencies (both international and local) is a major obstacle. Consequently, despite considerable support from several alliances and the public, making the national asbestos ban a reality is still a long way off.” See: Strategy and implementation of the programme for the prevention and control of pneumoconiosis in Thailand.

Stricter Asbestos Regulations

Jan 23, 2014

Singapore’s Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Council and the Ministry of Manpower have announced stricter regulations for work involving asbestos, which is often found in pre-1990 constructions in materials such as corrugated roofs, ceiling boards and partition walls. The new WSH (Asbestos) Regulations, which will take effect from May 1, mandate that an expert be appointed to ascertain if asbestos-containing materials are present before demolition or renovation works on buildings constructed before 1 January 1991 can take place. See: Enhanced regulations for work involving asbestos to be introduced.

Ban Asbestos Mobilization in Asia

Jan 16, 2014

A bumper issue of the Occupational and Safety Health Rights Newsletter released today documents the incredible growth in ban asbestos activism throughout Asia in 2013. The 32-page online resource contains features on ban asbestos meetings in Bangladesh and Indonesia, grassroots asbestos activities in India and Korea and crucial news about the work of asbestos industry scientists, landmark judicial decisions and the first government payouts to asbestosis victims in India. The formation of the Bangladesh Ban Asbestos Network was announced. See: January 2014 issue of the Occupational and Safety Health Rights Newsletter.

Investigation by Government Agency

Jan 15, 2014

Responding to a complaint from the Toxics Watch Alliance that 50,000+ people die from asbestos-related diseases annually in India, it was reported today that the National Human Rights Commission, a body set up in 1993 under the Protection of the Human Rights Act, has asked all state governments to investigate this issue. The report by the Government of Delhi noted that there are three asbestos-processing factories in the capital and that the Government keeps health records of all workers at these factories. See: NHRC wants report on asbestos’ health effects.

Hong Kong Asbestos Scare

Jan 9, 2014

The Haking Wong Building at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) will be reopened today (Jan. 9) after an asbestos scare. The building had been closed on Tuesday after asbestos-containing debris had been identified in maintenance rooms on six floors. A task force agreed to commission air quality tests to establish the risk of contamination being spread through the air-conditioning services. A spokeswoman for the University said yesterday said that the "The test results of airborne asbestos fiber level from air samples taken from the building suggested that the building is safe for normal occupation." See: HKU building cleared after asbestos scare.

Asbestos Epidemic

Jan 8, 2014

On January 7, 2014, Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare announced that 28 Japanese workers had been officially recognised as having contracted asbestos-related diseases after toxic exposures at US military bases in Okinawa Prefecture; 21 of them have died. The workers from the base carried out demolition of asbestos-containing buildings, spraying of asbestos, waste disposal and collection, and repair and manufacturing of machines. Asbestos has been found at former US military sites returned to Japan; Japanese workers renovated bases without prior notification of the asbestos hazard. See: Japan Workers Sick from Asbestos.

Government Liable for Exposures

Dec 25, 2013

On December 25, 2013, in a landmark ruling by the Osaka High Court, the Japanese Government was held liable for asbestos-related diseases due to its failure to protect workers from harmful exposures. This is the first time such a judgment has been handed down. The 58 claimants in this case, who include former asbestos mill workers from the Osaka South Prefecture, were seeking 700 million yen (U.S. $6.7 million) in damages; today's ruling awarded them 340m, nearly double that awarded by a lower court. See: High court holds gov't liable for asbestos exposure for 1st time; also see: Asbestos Health Hazard in Seenan.

Demonstration at Ministry of Health

Dec 24, 2013

Scores of members of the Thailand Ban Asbestos Network (T-BAN), today mounted a protest outside the Ministry of Health (MoH) in Bangkok to condemn the continued use of asbestos more than two years after a cabinet resolution was adopted supporting a ban. The demonstrators read out a statement which criticised the status quo and the position of an interim MoH's official who supported it (see: T-BAN Statement). It is understood that the controversial report supporting the use of chrysotile will not be submitted to the cabinet. T-BAN is calling for full disclosure relating to the actions of this official.

Landmark Compensation for Asbestosis

Dec 21, 2013

On December 20, 14 tribal workers with asbestosis who had been employed at Udaipur asbestos mines received compensation of around U.S. $1,600 from the Rajasthan State Government (see: Picture of recipients). This comes as the conclusion to a 6 year-fight by the Mine Labor Protection Campaign with medical institutions and government departments. Future victims will also receive this amount; widows of deceased claimants will receive $4,800. These payouts mark a landmark victory for injured workers as it is the first time Indian asbestosis victims have received monetary relief from the State. See: In a first, 14 asbestosis victims get 1L cheques.

Agreement to Ban Asbestos in Laos

Dec 17, 2013

News was published yesterday of an agreement signed in Vientiane on December 13, 2013 by Somphong Soukivanh, the Deputy Director General of the Industry and Handicrafts Department, and Philip Hazelton, regional representative of the Australian organization Union Aid Abroad to develop a National Asbestos Profile. Work will begin in January 2014. Upon completion in June, 2014 the profile will constitute a fundamental part of the National Strategy on the Elimination of Asbestos. Laos uses asbestos to produce industrial products including cement roofing tiles. In 2002, the country began importing significant amounts of the deadly material. See: Laos plans to eliminate the importation of asbestos.

Anger at Expansion of Asbestos Sector

Dec 17, 2013

Yesterday (December 16, 2013), a delegation of activists and local people met with state officials to submit a Memorandum criticising the plans by Utkal Asbestos Limited, a company based in West Bengal, to construct an asbestos factory in their village. This was the latest manifestation of anger by civilians over the seemingly unchecked expansion of the hazardous asbestos sector in Bihar State. During demonstrations, protestors have been injured by the police and company security guards and workers have been sacked. See: Some 10, 000 Vaishali Villagers Submit Petition Against proposed Hazardous Asbestos Factory of Bengal's Utkal Asbestos Limited (UAL).

Asbestos Lobby Hits Delhi

Dec 6, 2013

At a two-day conference in the Indian capital this week, the asbestos roadshow laid out its wares of industry-commissioned research and arguments to bolster the sales pitch of asbestos profiteers in a country which has embraced asbestos technology. David Bernstein, the industry's preferred "scientist," led the pack with a presentation used to enforce the propaganda that chrysotile asbestos can be used safely under controlled conditions; the vast majority of the delegates represented Indian asbestos industry stakeholders. As of 2012, India had used over 7 million tonnes of asbestos; India is the world's biggest importer of asbestos. See: Picture of Speakers at Asbestos Industry Event.

Hazards of Increasing Asbestos Use

Nov 28, 2013

The occupational risks for people in the growing asbestos industry in Laos were highlighted in an article uploaded yesterday which predicted that national consumption could reach 9,000 tonnes/year. Ignorance about the human health hazards posed by asbestos exposures has enabled sales to increase without government or civil society opposition. This is changing. In July 2013 a 2-day conference entitled Working towards a National Strategy on Asbestos in Laos attracted widespread participation including the attendance of government officials from eight ministries, trade unionists, academics and experts. See: Fight Against Asbestos Goes Global.

Asbestos Alert in Kathmandu

Nov 27, 2013

The Executive Director of the [Nepal] Centre for Public Health and Environmental Development Ram Charitra Sah has warned the authorities of the hazards posed by the lack of care taken regarding the use and storage of asbestos-containing products. "Asbestos is," he told a reporter for the Himalayan Times "piled up in different parts of Kathmandu, including Maitighar, for use in road construction work…" In an article citing the official positions of the World Health Organization and the International Labor Organizations, Mr. Sah called on the Government to ban the use, import and export of asbestos products. See: Handle asbestos carefully: NGO.

Asbestos Exposure in Indian Workplaces

Nov 27, 2013

Media reports published today highlight the deplorable situation of Indian migrant laborers who have contracted fatal asbestos-related diseases from workplace exposures. Raghunath Manwar, President of the Occupational Health Association, confirmed the situation citing the case of S.R. Gaunder's widow who has, since his death 3 years ago, received no support or compensation as her husband was a migrant from Tamil Nadu. Gaunder, who had been employed as a laborer at a notorious asbestos-cement factory, died in 2010 from asbestos cancer. Similar examples are documented along with comments from activists helping the injured. See: Vapi hellhole gets worse for migrant workers.

Launch of Ban Asbestos Network

Nov 25, 2013

On November 23, 2013, at the culmination of a 2-day meeting of the Asian Ban Asbestos Network in Dhaka, a new organization was launched: the Bangladesh Ban Asbestos Network (B-BAN). Calling for urgent action, occupational health and safety campaigner and co-host of the meeting Repon Chowdhury said "Bangladesh cannot close its eyes to the asbestos issue." Asbestos activists, victims and trade unionist delegates at the meeting endorsed the new organization and pledged to continue international collaboration to achieve an Asian ban on the use of asbestos. See: Press Release.

Medical Workshop on Asbestos

Nov 20, 2103

Ban asbestos activists from Indonesia and Korea are today holding a medical workshop on asbestos in Jakarta (see: workshop poster) to highlight the ongoing risk posed by occupational and environmental exposure to a substance widely used in Indonesia (see: Growth of Asian Asbestos Markets). Speakers invited by the Ban Asbestos Network of Korea (BANKO) and the Indonesian Ban Asbestos Network (Ina-ban) will reveal details of the incidence of asbestos-related disease identified amongst workers from an asbestos textile factory in Cibinong, Indonesia; the company which owns this factory moved its operations from Korea to Indonesia in the 1990s.

2013 Asbestos Industry Offensive

Oct 31, 2013

Following up on a recent pro-asbestos event in the Philippines, industry apologists will take part in a sham conference in New Delhi on December 3 & 4, 2013. Once again, the chrysotile lobby's favourite spokesman David Bernstein is heading the agenda; his back-up consists of speakers from Russia, Ukraine, Brazil, Canada and Vietnam [see: Agenda]. Asbestos manufacturing is a growing industrial sector in India. In 2012, the use of chrysotile asbestos was just under 500,000 tonnes; this was a 53% increase in one year. See: Global asbestos lobby organizes events in the Philippines and India to promote continued use of asbestos in Asia.

Chrysotile Lobby Meeting

Oct 30, 2013

It comes as no surprise to learn that as independent Asian scientists were preparing for the 6th Asian Asbestos Initiative International Seminar (November 13-15, 2013) in Manila, on October 25 the asbestos industry held a spoiler conference (see: Agenda) to reinforce corporate propaganda that the use of chrysotile asbestos is safe. This is a well-known industry strategy; in 2008, chrysotile lobbyists organised a pro-asbestos conference at the same time and in the same venue as the Building and Woodworkers' International Trade Union Asbestos Conference. Speakers at Friday's event included David Bernstein, an industry-linked scientist at the center of an alleged judicial scandal being investigated in New York.

Court Sanctions Construction of Plant

Oct 29, 2013

Plans to build a highly controversial asbestos factory in the Vaishali district of Bihar State were advanced by a decision handed down on October 28 by the Patna High Court. Justice Jayant Singh ordered the Bihar State Pollution Control Board to green light construction of Utkal Asbestos Limited's new plant despite widespread opposition by local people who are concerned about the proximity of the site to a village and school. Vaishali opponents of this scheme plan to appeal this week's decision. See: High court orders renewal of permit to Utkal asbestos plant in Bihar

Rajasthan to Compensate Victims

Sep 17, 2013

It has been announced that the Government of Rajasthan will set up a Pneumoconiosis Board (the Board) which will pay compensation of U.S. $35,000 to people suffering from asbestosis. This is the first such scheme in India and is the result of years of mobilization by a local non-governmental organization: the Mine Labor Protection Campaign (MLPC). The Board will examine mine workers and those who are diagnosed with occupational diseases will have their claims submitted to local administrators of the Monetary Relief department. The MLPC has also gained government agreement for the issuing of health cards for mine workers. See: Support for Mine Workers in Rajasthan.

Trade Union Victory in Philippines

Sep 16, 2013

A letter received by Michael Mendoza, the President of the Associated Labor Unions-Trade Union Congress (ALU-TUCP) of the Philippines, from the Department of Education signalled a small but significant victory for the labor federation. The letter stated that due to pressure brought by the ALU-TUCP the use of asbestos wire gauze mats in secondary schools had been reviewed. As a result, a DepEd Memorandum is being issued ordering the disposal of these contaminated items which will now be replaced by ceramic products in order to "safeguard the well-being of the learners, teachers and other school personnel." See: Letter from Department of Education, the Philippines.

Trade Union Action to Ban Asbestos

Sep 4, 2013

The Associated Labor Unions-Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (ALU-TUCP) has retabled a bill in the House of Representatives to ban the import, manufacture, processing, use and distribution of asbestos and asbestos-containing products. The bill, which had been filed in two previous Congresses, is known as House Bill 2638. In 2011 and 2012, asbestos use in the Philippines was 3,245 and 1,970 tonnes, respectively. Speaking on behalf of the ALU-TUCP, Gerard Seno said: "Banning asbestos is the way to go if we want to protect our workers and the general population from first-hand and secondary [asbestos] exposure." See: ALU-TUCP Press Release.

Cancer Mortality in Chinese Miners

Sep 4, 2013

To assess the relationship of lung cancer mortality and other causes of death to asbestos exposure levels, a cohort of male workers from a chrysotile mine in China was examined in a study covering the period 1981-2006. The authors of the resulting paper conclude that: "There were clear exposure-response relationships in this cohort, which imply a causal link between chrysotile asbestos exposure and lung cancer and nonmalignant respiratory diseases, and possibly to gastrointestinal cancer, at least for smokers." The authors admit that in China there is a failure to diagnose cases of malignant mesothelioma. See: Cancer Mortality in Chinese Asbestos Miners: Exposure-Response Relationships.

Government Committee Whitewash

Jul 30, 2013

On July 29, a Committee of the Public Health Ministry said that it could find no evidence about the risk of asbestos use to Thai citizens. The study undertaken under the leadership of Dr. Charnwit Tharathep has been soundly ridiculed in the pages of the Bangkok Post by all the posts which have been uploaded. One critic wrote: "K. Chanwit. Could you publish your research methodology. Thailand is the only country that I know who could not link asbestos to cancer. Back in the USA, asbestos producing cos have gone out of business. There have been lots of compensation paid to the inflicted." See: Asbestos variant safe, govt claims.

Mesothelioma Voyage

Jul 19, 2013

Japanese mesothelioma patient Mituse Yamashita set sail on July 18th from the Japanese port of Yokohama on an 85-day voyage which will take her around the world [see: photo (2012) with Mituse on the left]. The three-month journey will take her to 19 countries including Vietnam, Egypt, Greece, Jamaica and Mexico. Mrs. Yamashita was diagnosed with the asbestos cancer mesothelioma 9 years ago and her enthusiasm for this challenge has inspired all her colleagues in the Ban Asbestos Japan network. She is sailing on the 80th Peace Boat, a Japanese institution dedicated to the promotion of world peace, human rights and respect for the environment. See: Peace Boat website.

Public Health Threat Posed by Asbestos

Jul 15, 2013

An editorial in the July 15th issue of The News International, Pakistan's largest English language newspaper, has commented on the environmental study published last week which highlighted the health risks posed by the operations of the asbestos-cement producer Dadex Eternit Ltd. Calling this a "health problem of almost unimaginable proportions," it asks "who will be held responsible or accountable" for the "wholly preventable" epidemic of asbestos-related disease and death which is to come. Mentioned in the text are threats made by vested interests to researchers; their work was temporarily suspended due to safety fears. See: Editorial: Asbestos and Cancer.

Asbestos threatens millions in Karachi

Jul 12, 2013

An environmental study commissioned by the Pakistan Supreme Court is now under consideration. The research documents hazardous asbestos exposures inside Karachi asbestos factories and in adjacent areas as well as in properties built on former asbestos dump sites such as new units at Naya Nazimabad. The threat to public health was brought to light by Syed Haroon, the brother of Syed Farid Ahmed; Haroon blamed his brother's death from cancer in 2006 on asbestos exposures experienced at the Dadex Eternit Ltd. factory, a plant where chrysotile asbestos was used to manufacture building materials. See: Two million Karachiites face cancer threat.

Bilateral Action on Asbestos

Jul 12, 2013

Korean and Japanese campaigners on asbestos issues and victims' rights will join medical experts, occupational health researchers, environmentalists and trade unionists at a full day asbestos symposium being held on Sunday, July 14, 2013 at Seoul National University. Subjects which will be considered during the day include strategies for identifying asbestos victims, criteria for the recognition of asbestos-related diseases, the high incidence of asbestos-related disease amongst construction workers and ongoing initiatives in Korea and Japan to tackle a wide range of challenges posed by hazardous exposures to asbestos. See: Poster advertising Asbestos Symposium.

Ban Asbestos Mobilization

Jul 11, 2013

INA BAN, the Indonesian Ban Asbestos Network, continues to mobilize asbestos awareness amongst members of the public, workers, the medical profession and civil servants. A recent infographic it has produced has proved a useful and popular resource for the campaign. To view these images click on: Bahasa infographic and English infographic. In 2011 and 2012, Indonesia used 124,049 and 161,824 tonnes of asbestos, respectively (an annual increase of 30%), making it one of Asia's biggest consumers of asbestos. See also: Indonesia Mobilization on Asbestos

Asbestos Company Offensive

Jul 11, 2013

A decision issued by the Bihar State Pollution Control Board which blocked the building of an asbestos-cement production facility in the town of Vaishali has today been challenged by Utkal Asbestos Ltd. at hearings before the Patna High Court. Vaishali citizens have protested the siting of this factory in their town due to the occupational and public health hazard posed by the processing of asbestos fiber, a substance banned in 50+ countries. See: Killer asbestos company challenges Pollution Control Board's cancellation of its hazardous plants, questions 'battery limit'.

Bangkok Asbestos Protest

Jul 10, 2013

On July 8, 2013, 120 members of the Thailand Ban Asbestos Network (TBAN) demonstrated outside the Prime Minister's office in Bangkok about government proposals to delay the ban on the use of asbestos-cement products for five years. TBAN is pressing for government action to prohibit the import of chrysotile asbestos by the end of this year, to stop asbestos-cement production in 2014 and to ban all imports of asbestos-cement material in 2015. Professor Surasak informed the demonstrators that a case of mesothelioma has been diagnosed at Thailand's Thmmasart Hospital. See: Picture of TBAN July 8 protest.

Academic papers call for asbestos ban

Jul 8, 2013

The current issue of the journal Safety and Health at Work includes papers which highlight the escalation of asbestos use and mining in Asia and call for the phasing out of asbestos use. The papers Awareness of Asbestos and Action Plans for Its Exposure can Help Lives Exposed to Asbestos and Asbestos and Asbestos-related Diseases in Vietnam: In reference to the International Labor Organization/World Health Organization National Asbestos Profile agree that the future holds no place for the asbestos industry. See: Safety and Health at Work, June 2013, Vol. 4, No. 2

Appeal Court Win for Asbestos Victims

Jul 8, 2013

On June 27, 2013, the Tokyo High Court upheld a decision by the Tokyo District Court which had found that a 61 year-old lung cancer victim exposed to asbestos at work had a legitimate work-related injury; the government's criteria which barred such a claim were, the Court said, "unreasonable." The claimant had worked as an engineer at a steelmaking plant from 1973-1984. Officials refused to recognize his claim on the basis of a "low" lung fiber burden. It is thought this ruling will benefit four other claimants with similar lawsuits in Tokyo, Osaka and Kobe. See: High court rules criteria for recognizing lung cancer caused by asbestos unreasonable.

Deadly Global Impact of ARDs

Jun 26, 2013

An analysis by nine Asian researchers of World Health Organization mesothelioma and asbestosis mortality data from around the world over the period from 1994 to 2010 confirmed the tragic impact these diseases have had. The scientists calculated that during this period, more than 2.3 million years of life have been lost; on average, mesothelioma and asbestosis sufferers have been deprived of 17 and 13 years of life respectively. The authors conclude that: "The future burden of ARDs can be eliminated by stopping the use of asbestos." See: Potential years of life lost (PYLL) caused by asbestos-related diseases in the world.

Asbestos Debate in Sri Lanka

Jun 25, 2013

The Consumer Affairs Authority in Sri Lanka, a country which over recent years annually used around 55,000 tonnes of asbestos, is considering recommending the use of asbestos-free products to protect the population from hazardous exposures. The Central Environmental Authority admits that workplace monitoring at asbestos processing facilities is inadequate and public as well as occupational awareness of the asbestos hazard remains low. National vested interests are working with international asbestos lobbyists to promote the continuing use of asbestos in Sri Lanka. See: Asbestos an untamed and silent killer thriving on ignorance.

Asbestos in Schools Scandal

Jun 20, 2013

A high level of concern has resulted from the publication earlier this week of research findings by labor groups in the Philippines. The Associated Labor Union-Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (ALU-TUCP) revealed that asbestos-containing products were being used by high school students conducting experiments in school laboratories despite the fact that the use of such material had been banned by the Department of Education. Visits to eight schools in the metropolitan area of Manila confirmed that asbestos-wire gauzes were being handled by students. The hazardous products are being purchased from laboratory supply stores in Manila. See: ALU - TUCP press releases.

IBAS Bursary Success

Jun 12, 2013

Dr. Abhijeet Jadhav, the recipient of a 2012 IBAS bursary, successfully completed his training for an ILO 2000 International Certification of Radiographs of Pneumoconioses. Dr. Jadhav is the author of a paper published in May 2013 entitled: Asbestosis: Past voices from the Mumbai Factory Floor which highlighted the terrible price being paid for India's rapid industrial development by workers, many of whom are suffering from asbestos-related conditions. Concluding the paper, he calls for an asbestos ban and a rehabilitation and palliative care program for the asbestos-injured. See: Asbestosis: Past voices from the Mumbai factory Floor.

Goa to Replace Asbestos-cement Pipes

May 25, 2013

By 2015, a massive new infrastructure project to provide water to residents in the capital city of the Indian state of Goa, Panaji, will replace 90 km of asbestos-cement water pipes with high density polyethylene pipes according to a report in The Times of India. The current pipeline network is more than 40 years old and is often subject to breakdowns, contamination and under capacity. This decision has been taken despite aggressive ongoing lobbying by the Indian asbestos-cement industry It is expected that work will begin in Panaji shortly after a choice of contractor has been made. See: 24x7 water for Panaji by 2015.

Death at Asbestos Factory

May 13, 2013

Ban asbestos activist Gopal Krishna has reported the death of a 35-year-old employee at the Utkal Asbestos Limited factory in the Bhojpur District of Bihar State. Dharmendra Kumar Rawani died as a result of a workplace accident in the early hours of May 10. After a demonstration by the All India Central Council of Trade Unions, the factory was closed; calls are being made for a permanent shutdown of the facility. Elsewhere in Bihar, activists continue efforts to block construction of new asbestos factories by Utkal Asbestos and Ramco Industries, two of India's largest manufacturers of asbestos-cement building products.

Asbestosis Death of Former Mine Worker

May 3, 2013

The Mine Labour Protection Campaign has reported the death on May 1, 2013 of Homa Khoma, a former asbestos mine worker from Rajasthan. Homa was examined by the National Institute of Occupational Health (NIOH) in 2007. The NIOH denied that he had asbestosis. When U.S. asbestos expert Dr. Arthur Frank reviewed this case, he confirmed on June 1, 2009 that Homa and two other workers had asbestosis. This was the first time that cases of asbestosis had been diagnosed in Rajasthan. The NIOH was forced to review its diagnosis and confirmed Homa had asbestosis in 2012. In February 2013, a compensation case was lodged.

Asbestos-Related Diseases Toolkit

May 3, 2013

On May 2, 2013, a "Toolkit for the Elimination of Asbestos-Related Diseases" was uploaded to the website of the University of Occupational and Environmental Health. This resource, which was developed with the support of the Rotterdam Convention Secretariat, the World Health Organization and the International Labour Office, is intended to act as a reference point for people working to eliminate asbestos-related diseases (ARDs). The authors point out that the "most effective means to prevent ARDs is to stop using asbestos." The document references a vast array of useful papers and links. See: Toolkit for the Elimination of Asbestos-Related Diseases.

Russian Threat to Thai Ban

Apr 29, 2013

Russian strategists are using threats of unofficial economic sanctions against Thailand to press the government to backtrack on a commitment to ban asbestos made more than two years ago. An article in today's Bangkok Post documents the use of discredited asbestos industry propaganda and the slurs being made against ban asbestos campaigners who are accused of fronting for international companies interested in selling asbestos-free products. Russian official Vladimir Romano's comments promoting the continued use of Russian chrysotile state that chrysotile is cheap and ecological. The Russians are calling for bilateral talks on chrysotile. See: Russia presents case for chrysotile.

Thai Editorial Supports Asbestos Ban

Apr 26, 2013

An editorial in yesterday's Bangkok Post condemned the Public Health Ministry's refusal "to recognise that asbestos, a known human carcinogen used in construction materials, is dangerous to health." Earlier this month, a Ministry official said that the evidence regarding the human health hazard of asbestos remains inconclusive despite the fact that the Thai Cabinet had accepted this fact more than two years ago. Increasing pressure by asbestos lobbyists is responsible for the Thai Government's continued inaction. The editorial says that the Ministry must accept "asbestos as a health hazard, which has long been acknowledged worldwide." See: Asbestos kills, that's for sure.

Anti-asbestos Activists Vindicated

Apr 26, 2013

Results of a fact-finding trip by government officials to a site for an asbestos-cement factory confirm that a government license to build had been obtained based on several misstatements. The main factual error was the overestimate of the distance of the industrial development from human settlement, including a school and a community hall which are within a 150 meter radius of the plant. As a result of this new information, the Bihar State Pollution Control Board has cancelled the no-objection certificate for the construction of an asbestos factory in Hajipur, Bihar by Utkal Asbestos Limited. See: Utkal asbestos plant's no-objection certificate cancelled.

Asbestos meeting in Bangkok

Apr 17, 2013

Civil society representatives met with ministerial officials in Bangkok today to press the Thai Cabinet to honor its commitment to ban asbestos. Academics presented news of research findings which highlighted the increased lung cancer risk to asbestos-exposed populations with high levels of tobacco use. The failure to follow-up on the Cabinet ban asbestos resolution, which was adopted more than two years ago, is believed to have been caused by pressure exerted by Russian government and commercial representatives. See: Scientific Research Integrity and Thailand Asbestos Status Quo: 2013.

Reclassification of Asbestos Hazard

Apr 15, 2013

News has been received that on December 27, 2012, a new "List of recommended substitutes for toxic and hazardous raw materials" was officially published by China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. Asbestos was included in category 3, the most advanced class for which substitutes have been developed and are being used. In the document, asbestos was categorized as a toxic and hazardous substance which could be replaced by safer alternatives. Chinese experts on the asbestos industry suggest that this reclassification along with existing restrictions and increasing prices could increase the popularity in China of asbestos-free products.

Recognition of Occupational Diseases

Apr 11, 2013

The Korean Ministry of Labor has proposed amending regulations which recognize occupationally-caused asbestos diseases. Patients with larynx and ovarian cancer will now be able to claim compensation for an occupational illness; currently, only sufferers from malignant mesothelioma and lung cancer are eligible. In each case, an occupational history of asbestos exposure or symptoms of asbestosis, pleural thickening or pleural plaques or the presence of asbestos bodies in the sputum will be required for a claim to succeed. In 2011, 450 cases of asbestos-related disease were recognized: 279 mesothelioma, 22 lung cancer, 158 asbestosis.

Government Investigate Asbestos Cartel

Feb 21, 2013

The Competition Commission has launched an investigation into the dominance of the asbestos-cement (AC) market by six companies which account for 87% of the market share. Key indicators have been identified which have led to charges of anti-competitive practices by the industry, including the role and actions of the Asbestos Cement Products Manufacturers Association, an industry lobbying group accused of "facilitating the cartel and controlling production volumes and sale prices." AC sheets are primarily used for roofing for low cost houses in rural areas. See: CCI probes cartelisation in asbestos cement sheets market.

New Calls to Ban Asbestos

Feb 13, 2013

On Monday, February 11, 2013 a public meeting took place in Bangkok at which the Thai translation of the IBAS monograph Eternit & The Great Asbestos Trial was launched. The timing of this event is quite remarkable as it came just three days before appeal proceedings were due to begin of the Italian case which is at the center of this book. In Bangkok, Dr Vichai Chokewiwat, one of the editors of the Thai text, commented on the relevance of this book to the Thai experience; highlighting the deadly consequences which resulted from the production and use of asbestos-cement products in Italy. Speakers and delegates at the session called on the Thai government to immediately ban asbestos. See: online Thai Report.

Tsunami Asbestos Pollution

Jan 28, 2013

The Australian Broadcasting Corporation program Lateline today broadcast a segment focusing on the high levels of asbestos contamination found in tsunami-affected communities in Japan. Research has confirmed 14 cases where levels exceeded the WHO's safety limit. Asbestos-containing products and debris remain in the wreckage of buildings destroyed during the disaster. In the coming months, the authorities in Ishinomaki City plan to demolish 4,000 damaged buildings; due to the project's scale, workers with no knowledge of the asbestos hazard are likely to be employed. See: Tsunami leaves Japan with toxic asbestos legacy.

Raising Asbestos Awareness

Jan 25, 2013

Mahaphant, a Thai company which now makes non-asbestos building products, has uploaded to YouTube a commercial that was first broadcast on primetime Thai TV in December 2012. The purpose of the ad was, the company has said, to educate Thai society about the asbestos cancer risk. In the film, thugs threaten a homeowner over an unpaid debt. They tie him up and start wrecking his house saying he is going to die. The victim, now wearing a gas mask, tells the gang leader he is going to die because of all the asbestos dust released in the attack. See: Thai TV advertisement and also new (2013) commercial.

Growth of Asbestos-Cement Sector

Jan 11, 2013

The most recent annual report by Visaka Industries Limited, a major asbestos-cement (AC) manufacturer in India (with 2012 net income of $135m+), confirmed an increase in sales of asbestos-cement products of up to 7.5% in 2012. "While this may not be a patch on the good old days when the industry would consistently grow 12-15% a year, this rebound is reassuring." Visaka is buoyant about the future of AC in India, predicting a growth of 10% in production in 2012-13; this translates into the manufacture of 725,000 tonnes of AC sheets. See: Visaka Industries Limited Annual Report 2011-2012.

Asbestos Conference in Bihar

Jan 3, 2013

A conference on environmental and occupational health was held in Patna, the capital of Bihar State on December 24 during which the threats posed by plans to build factories to manufacture asbestos-cement products in Vaishali and Bhojpur (Bihar) were highlighted. U.S. expert Dr. Barry Castleman told delegates that asbestos companies in India were guilty of "corporate crimes" and retired Judge Rekha Kumari called for the prosecution of asbestos criminals. Prof. Qamar Rahman was in no doubt that that the "safe use of asbestos" was impossible and that asbestos use should be banned. The Patna Declaration was adopted by the meeting (see also: photograph of conference).

Asbestos Ban

Jan 1, 2013

Government recommendations have been made to ban asbestos in Pakistan, a country which used an annual average of 11,770 tonnes of asbestos over recent years. At a meeting of the National Assembly's Standing Committee on Human Resource Development on December 31, Parliamentarians voted to end asbestos use to safeguard workers' health. In addition, committee members decided upon a raft of actions to alert federal and regional authorities of the asbestos hazard. Citing national bans in 55 countries, experts had warned the politicians of the cancer and respiratory risk from exposure to all types of asbestos. See: NA body decides to recommend ban on asbestos.

Asbestos Ban Delayed

Dec 30, 2012

Industry stakeholders from Thailand and Russia have continued the pressure on the Thai authorities to delay introducing the implementation of measures to phase out the use of asbestos, according to members of the Thailand Ban Asbestos Network (T-BAN). During the last week of December, T-BAN representatives participated in a ministerial meeting at which Ministry of Industry spokesmen supported the arguments of asbestos vested interests opposed to the ban. Another meeting will be held in January on this subject. T-BAN remains committed to the goal of ending the use of asbestos throughout the country by the end of 2013.

Asbestos Controversy in Northern India

Dec 17, 2012

The construction of an asbestos factory in Vaishala, a town in Bihar State, India is being met with stiff resistance from local people who allege that the required clearances obtained by Utkal Asbestos Limited have been secured through the provision of false information and without due process. Frustration regarding the imposition of this industrial site on the town boiled over yesterday (December 16) when villagers blocked the main road to the site and demolished a boundary wall as a result of which all building work has been suspended pending further discussions. See: Asbestos Factory Demolished in Vaishali.

Asbestos mining in Rajasthan

Dec 8, 2012

In a statement made on November 23, 2012 to the Indian Parliament, Minister of Mines Dinsha Patel said that plans were being progressed to recommence asbestos mining operations in Rajasthan. The Minister confirmed that draft guidelines for "appropriate safeguards" were being finalized, after which the granting of new asbestos mining licenses might be considered. This development is of immense concern to civil society stakeholders throughout India. A letter sent by IBAS to the Minister outlined the international consensus that the only way to protect human beings from dangerous exposures is to ban the mining, use and export of all forms of asbestos.

Landmark Victory for Workers

Dec 6, 2012

On December 5, 2012 the Tokyo District Court held the Japanese Government liable for asbestos-related injuries sustained by construction workers exposed to asbestos as a result of the Government's failure to deal with the asbestos hazard. Judge Masamitsu Shiseki awarded the sum of ¥1 billion compensation to 308 Tokyo workers. A similar class-action lawsuit, the first of its kind to be filed, was lost at the Yokohoma District Court in May 2012. At least four similar actions are pending in regional courts. Japan did not begin to phase out the use of chrysotile asbestos until 2004. See: Tokyo court orders state to pay ¥1 billion to compensate asbestos victims.

Ban Asbestos Demonstration

Nov 14, 2012

Today (November 14, 2012), the Thailand Ban Asbestos Network (TBAN) campaign stepped up a gear with a well-supported demonstration in Bangkok by victims of occupational disease, members of consumer and worker groups and their supporters, outside the offices of the Ministry of Industry. It was an energetic display with banners and flowers which culminated in the presentation of a petition for an immediate asbestos ban to a civil servant representing Mr Prasert Boonchaisook, the new Thai Minister of Industry.

Action on Asbestos Hazard

Nov 9, 2012

An asbestos workshop is being held in Quezon City on November 12 by the Associated Labor Union-Trade Union Congress of the Philippines. The aim of the day will be to "shape [a] new approach to responsibly phase out and ban asbestos and asbestos-containing materials in the Philippines." Building on the work already done on the ban campaign, including a Parliamentary ban asbestos bill, trade unionist and ban asbestos campaigner Gerard Seno said he hopes to seize this opportunity to revitalize and reorient efforts to end the use of asbestos in the Philippines. See: ALU-TUCP Grabs Unanticipated Opportunity for its Ban Asbestos Campaign in the Philippines.

IBAS 2012 Educational Bursary

Nov 5, 2012

Dr. Abhijeet Jadhav (photo), recipient of the IBAS 2012 Educational Bursary, attended a national workshop on “Detection of Pneumoconiosis and use of ILO Classification 2000” on October 30-November 2, 2012 at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. After two days of training, preliminary tests eliminated 20 of the 50 participants. Dr. Jadhav survived the cut and was privileged to take the final exam which consisted of reporting on 60 X-rays in three hours. The results of his efforts will be known in three months.

Activists Lobby Prime Minister

Oct 17, 2012

On Monday (October 15), representatives of the Thailand Ban Asbestos Network (TBAN) urged officials from the Prime Minister's office to immediately ban the import, use and sale of asbestos. Although the Thai Government had announced plans to prohibit asbestos use in a government resolution issued on April 12, 2011, no steps have been taken to implement that decision. Since then, the Thai asbestos lobby has been exerting pressure on the government to allow a 5-year phase-out period. TBAN is calling on the government to honor its pledge to end all asbestos use within the coming months. See: Thailand: Update on Ban Asbestos Campaign and also picture of October 15 meeting.

Post-Earthquake Hazard

Oct 10, 2012

Sampling done after the 2011 Japanese earthquake have revealed hazardous levels of asbestos contamination. The study, which was undertaken by the Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry and the Environment Ministry, at sites in Miyagi, Iwate, Fukushima, Tochigi, Ibaraki and other prefectures found 10.6 and 783.5 asbestos fibers per liter of air at 14 sites. The World Health Organization's safety limit is 10. The highest level, 783.5, was found at a hotel being demolished in Aoba Ward, Sendai where no attempt had been made to deal with the asbestos present in the building's exterior prior to demolition work commencing. See: Asbestos high in quake zone.

First Prize for Documentary

Oct 9, 2012

Film directors Niccolò Bruna and Andrea Prandstraller won first prize for their feature documentary "Dust: The Great Asbestos Trial" at the Baghdad International Film Festival this week. The film focuses on the 30-year fight for justice mounted by grassroots campaigners and trade unionists against the asbestos multinational: Eternit. Last month, this documentary won the prize for best film at the International Environmental Film Festival in Rio de Janeiro. See: Film Trailer and also the online book: Eternit and the Great Asbestos Trial.

Winner of 2012 IBAS Educational Bursary

Oct 8, 2012

It has been announced today that Dr. Abhijeet Jadhav, from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, has been awarded an IBAS Educational Bursary which will enable him to take part in the October 30-November 2, 2012 training workshop in New Delhi entitled: "Detection of Pneumoconiosis and Use of ILO Classification 2000." Making this announcement, IBAS Coordinator Laurie Kazan-Allen said: "Although I only met Dr. Jadhav last year, I have been impressed by his commitment to working with grassroots groups in Mumbai, Roro and Ahmedabad to support people affected by asbestos-related diseases. IBAS is proud to have the opportunity to assist Dr. Jadhav."

Unions call for just transition

Sep 26, 2012

Unionists in the Philippines today urged the authorities in Canada to recognize the plight of miners, rendered jobless by the withdrawal of regional and federal support for the asbestos industry, and implement measures to assure a just transition for the workers at the Jeffrey Mine. The call made by the Associated Labour Unions-Trade Union Congress highlighted the committed activism of civil society campaigners in Canada and abroad who worked so hard to expose the duplicity and immorality of Canada's asbestos industry. See: Labor group expresses concern over miners. Similar sentiments were expressed in the September 24th blog by the IBAS Coordinator.

Recognition for Asbestos Workers

Sep 8, 2012

The National Institute of Occupational Health (NIOH), the only official Indian body authorized to diagnose and certify occupational diseases, has for the first time recognized cases of asbestosis in former asbestos miners from Rajasthan. Explaining the tortuous process undertaken to achieve this victory, Rana Sengupta of the Mine Labour Protection Campaign (MLPC) said: "It was a tough struggle to get the asbestos workers medically re-examined by NIOH and very difficult to get the reports from the NIOH." The MLPC is continuing to campaign on behalf of the injured and is pressing the government to undertake decontamination of affected areas. See: Report confirms asbestosis.

"Medical asbestos" caused mesothelioma

Sep 5, 2012

Labor authorities in Yamaguchi, Japan have recognized the first case of mesothelioma caused by occupational exposure to asbestos-contaminated talc used on surgical gloves. Nurse Mitsue Kawamura, 52 years old, was exposed from 1981 to 1985 when working at a medical clinic. While this is the first such case arising from occupational exposure to toxic gloves of a medical professional, 15 cases have been recognized by the Japanese authorities for people exposed to the asbestos-contaminated talc in the production of rubber goods. In 2006, Japan banned the use of talc with a content of over 0.1% asbestos. See: Labor office recognizes ex-nurse suffered tumor after inhaling asbestos.

Noose Tightens on Asbestos Use

Aug 13, 2012

As Thailand continues on the road to a national asbestos ban, the Consumer Protection Board (CPB) today announced that stricter requirements are being implemented on the labelling of asbestos-containing products. In 2009 the CPB ordered that items containing asbestos must be labelled; one year later, CPB rules were tightened when it mandated cancer warnings on these products. A legal complaint filed by manufacturers over this requirement was dismissed by the court last week. There is mounting support from the public, academics and trade unions in Thailand for a national asbestos ban. See: Consumer board requires stricter asbestos labelling.

Landmark case: partial success

Aug 9, 2012

A precedent was set on August 7 by the Kobe Court which recognized that a mesothelioma death had been caused by environmental exposure. Asbestos from the Kubota Corporation's Amagasaki plant was responsible for the death of Kojiro Yamauchi who, for 20 years, had worked at a factory 200 meters away. His family was awarded 32 million yen (US$406,744) from Kubota but a case brought against the Government failed. The Kobe Court denied compensation to the family of mesothelioma victim Ayako Yasui who had lived within 1.5 km of the same Kubota factory for 35 years. See: Kubota ruled liable for asbestos death.

Scientists Call for Asbestos Ban

Aug 2, 2012

A paper entitled "Elimination of asbestos use and asbestos-related diseases: An unfinished story," has just become available on the website of Cancer Science, the official journal of the Japanese Cancer Association. The authors call for a "stop to the use of all asbestos," as the most effective way of reducing the burden of asbestos-related diseases, and urge the international community to "promote worldwide cooperation involving countries with a wide range of experiences in asbestos… (to bring) together complementing technologies and experiences to match the varied needs of the beneficiaries." See: Elimination of asbestos use and asbestos-related diseases: An unfinished story.

Canadian High Commission Protest

Jul 26, 2012

Labor health activists and trade unionists held a protest today at the Canadian High Commission, Delhi to express outrage at the use of public money to revive the Canadian asbestos industry. Trade unionist Anup Srivastava said: "At a time when countries in the west are counting dead bodies and grappling with the increased number of asbestos-caused cancers, it is indeed a scandal that Premier Charest has decided to be so generous to the industry." Indian businessmen and politicians collude with global asbestos stakeholders to profit from the exploitation of a known carcinogen, endangering countless Indian citizens. See: Petition to Quebec Premier and Canadian Prime Minister.

Canadian Staff Block Indonesia Protest

Jul 23, 2012

On July 18, 2012, Indonesians concerned about the implications of Quebec's new asbestos mine planned to express their disapproval by submitting a letter to Canadian Prime Minister Harper and Quebec Premier Charest to the Canadian Embassy in Jakarta. They had also intended to make a visual manifestation of their outrage at this development by displaying posters and banners in front of the Embassy. They were prevented from doing so by police and Canadian Embassy security guards who chased them away and deleted photos which had been taken in front of the Embassy. See: letter to Quebec Premier Jean Charest and Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper.

Update from Iran

Jul 23, 2012

As a result of efforts by medical practitioners in Iran, awareness of the asbestos hazard is increasing amongst government officials, civil servants and members of the medical profession. Earlier this year an asbestos-cement factory in Tehran ceased production of asbestos-cement building materials. In recent weeks a medical-legal committee met to consider the case of a worker from this factory who died of lung cancer in 2010. This fatality has now been recognized as an occupationally-related cancer; it is hope that the deceased's family will be able to claim compensation. From 2008-2010, Iran used an average of 31,826 tonnes of asbestos per year. See: Iran Campaign to Ban Asbestos.

Indian Victims Go To Delhi

Jul 18, 2012

On July 16, 2012, a delegation of 10 mineworkers travelled 400+ miles to meet government occupational health officials in Delhi. This act of desperation by people from a remote tribal hamlet in Rajasthan was necessary because "so-called medical treatment" in Udaipur had been inadequate and untimely. Medical tests begun a year ago on 88 patients suspected of having asbestos-related diseases have not been completed. The Delhi authorities promised that the additional tests required by these patients will be carried out between July 23 and August 23. This initiative was a result of the work of the Mine Labor Protection Campaign. See: It's a long wait for ailing miners.

Asbestos Prohibition for Korean Ships

Jul 16, 2012

A technical information sheet issued by the Republic of Korea on June 25, 2012 confirmed the prohibition of the new use of all asbestos-containing products on South Korean ships. The 15-page guideline (No. 2012-IMO-07), signed by Kim Kyu-seob, Executive Vice President of the Statutory Survey Division of the Korean Register of Shipping, contains compliance advice for surveyors, regulatory administrators, ship owners/managers and ship builders for the construction of all types of new ships as well as repairs on existing ships.

Victory for villagers!

Jul 15, 2012

On July 12, local people in Odisha won their campaign to shut down the operations of a new asbestos-cement factory when the district administrator ruled that permission for the construction of the plant had been obtained illegally in 2010 by Visaka Asbestos Industries. Following investigations by local authorities, the "no objection certificate," which had been previously been granted to Visaka was cancelled due to the threat to public health presented by the use of asbestos at the factory and the opposition from local residents to the factory which was cited 500 metres from the village. See: Odisha village wins case against Visaka Industries' asbestos plant.

Opposition to Quebec's New Mine

Jul 15, 2012

A letter to Canada's Ambassador to the Philippines from the Associated Labor Unions-Trade Union Congress expressed "deep dismay" at the use of public money in Quebec to generate production of asbestos exports to Asia. Ban asbestos activist Gerard Seno said that the $58 million of taxpayers' money for a new asbestos mine will allow "the unimpeded flow of cancer-causing raw and asbestos-containing materials into the unwitting Philippine general population." This will undermine a long-standing campaign to protect workers and the public from hazardous exposures; every day, three million workers are exposed to asbestos in the Philippines. See: Labor group chides Canada for funding asbestos mine.

Phased Asbestos Ban in Taiwan

Jul 15, 2012

A new schedule has been announced by the Taiwan Environmental Protection Agency for the phased elimination of all asbestos use to reduce the risk of occupational and public exposure to asbestos. The only four remaining legal uses of asbestos in Taiwan are the manufacture of: cement composite hollow panels and construction sealants (to be banned as of August 1, 2012), roofing tiles (to be banned as of February 1, 2013) and brake linings (to be banned as of July 1, 2018). According to the EPA, these prohibitions are being adopted to reduce the risk of occupational and environmental exposure to asbestos. See: EPA Announces Schedule for Full Ban on Asbestos.

Mesothelioma from 1995 Earthquake

Jul 9, 2012

On Friday (July 6), the Akashi Municipal Government announced that an employee who had assisted with the clean-up after the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake has been diagnosed with mesothelioma. The earthquake affected Kobe, Awaji, Ashiya and Nishinomiya and their surrounding areas. The 40-year-old man, a member of the Akashi environment division, handled waste for up to four months after the disaster. It is anticipated that he will file a claim for public workers' compensation, which is likely to be the first mesothelioma claim by a civil servant exposed to asbestos as a result of this disaster. See: Kobe earthquake rubble handler develops cancer and IBAS publication Killing the Future (p 24).

Thailand's Asbestos Parasites

Jul 5, 2012

Calls for a further 5-year delay in implementing an asbestos ban, already approved by the Government, have been reported in a Bangkok Post article. Using a standard industry ploy, commercial stakeholders are demanding "more detailed studies," to create confusion and forestall restrictions on asbestos sales. In light of the rearguard action to derail the ban, it is no surprise to learn that Ulan Global Marketing Co. Ltd. is the major investor in a new Quebec asbestos mine, owning 50% of the shares. Thai asbestos investors must have more than a little inkling that asbestos use will continue in Thailand for the foreseeable future. See: Thailand's Asbestos Liars.

Protest at Canadian Embassy

Jul 3, 2012

Members of the Ban Asbestos Network of Korea took part in a colourful protest today outside the Canadian Embassy in Seoul. Wearing vests made out of sacks from the Quebec LAB chrysotile mine and holding signs calling for the banning of asbestos, asbestos victims and family members expressed their outrage at the $58 million government assistance being given to develop a new asbestos mine in Quebec. The age range of the demonstrators, from 19 to 70, reveals the wide range of support that this issue has in Korea. See: Stop Canada, Death Export.

Legal victories for asbestos victims

Jun 30 2012

On June 28, a lawsuit on behalf of the families of 5 former workers who died of lung cancer or mesothelioma succeeded when the Kobe District Court ordered Nippon Express Co. to pay a total of 137 million yen (US $1.7M) for neglecting to protect workers from the asbestos hazard. Four of the families had previously sued another defendant (Kubota); that case was settled in March with the company paying 10 million yen (US $125,290) for each death. The other victory was in an administrative case relating to an asbestos-related lung cancer fatality brought against the government in Tokyo District Court.

Death of Renowned Scientist

Jun 12, 2012

The death was announced today of Professor Masazumi Harada, the physician whose study of Japanese mercury poisoning led to the identification of Minamata disease. As a student at Kumamoto University, Harada began his medical examinations of the victims of mercury poisoning in 1961. He went on to become the world's leading expert on this disease. He was also interested in other environmental and occupational catastrophes. In the preface to the IBAS publication: Killing the Future - Asbestos Use in Asia, Professor Harada called asbestos "a silent assassin," and "the most lethal of all occupational killers." See: Minamata disease authority Masazumi Harada dies at 77.

Mine Labour Protection Campaign

Jun 11, 2012

A six-day training program on mines safety organized by the Mine Labour Protection Campaign (MLPC), an NGO based in Rajasthan, in collaboration with the Directorate of Mines Safety and the Department of Mines and Geology, starts today in Udaipur. Fifty people are participating including former asbestos mine workers who are being retrained to enable them to obtain jobs as skilled workmen in other mines. A Safety Help Line is also being launched by the MLPC. Photos from the MLPC's 2011 innovative art project to raise awareness of the human health risk of asbestos exposure can be seen online; see: MLPC Portraits of Asbestos Workers.

Victory for Yoshizaki Family!

May 29, 2012

Today the family of Tadashi Yoshizaki won justice, when the Osaka High Court upheld a 2011 lower court ruling that acknowledged his death from mesothelioma had been caused by the negligent actions of his employer, Nippon Express. While the earlier verdict of the Osaka District Court had ordered Nippon Express and Nichias, the owner of the asbestos factory in Nara where Mr. Yoshizaki worked in the warehouse, to pay the sum of 26 million JPY (US $327,000) between them, the 2012 decision exempted Nichias, allocating the fine solely to Nippon Express.

Calls to End Asbestos Exposure

May 29, 2012

The English translation of the Thai declaration adopted by a conference organized to mark National Safety Day in Bangkok on May 10, 2012 has now been issued. The May 10 event and declaration are initiatives of the Thailand Ban Asbestos Network; a range of government actions which recognize the serious and urgent nature of the country's asbestos challenge, including a ban on the import of chrysotile and chrysotile-containing products and the establishment of "The Institute Promoting Occupational Health and Safety in the Work Environment," is called for. See: English version of T_BAN Declaration.

WHO Press Conference

May 26, 2012

A press conference held by the World Health Organization (WHO) at the Grand China Princess Hotel in Bangkok on May 24, 2012 reaffirmed the international agency's concern about the human health hazard posed by the use of all asbestos fiber types including chrysotile. WHO, along with the International Labor Organization and other intergovernmental organizations, have publicly declared that "the most efficient way to eliminate asbestos-related diseases is to stop the use of all types of asbestos." See: WHO position on asbestos and Thailand's Asbestos Liars.

Asbestos Ban?

May 10, 2012

It was reported today that "asbestos slate" will be banned in Azerbaijan by the State Committee on Standardization, Metrology and Patents (SCSMP). After enquiries with informed sources, it seems that this statement is incorrect. The Chair of this Azerbaijan Commission today told journalists about an Interministerial Commission, jointly to be formed by the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources and the SCSMP, which will develop new environmental standards which harmonise with EU standards. Although asbestos is not yet on the agenda it will probably be considered very soon as the asbestos threat has been under consideration in Azerbaijan for several years.

Ban Asbestos Conference

May 10, 2 012

A conference attended by 250 people took place today in Bangkok, organized by the Thailand Ban Asbestos Network (T-Ban). In a declaration issued by delegates, immediate action to implement government proposals to ban asbestos was demanded to protect workers and citizens from the hazards of exposure to asbestos. The policies of international agencies such as the ILO and the WHO, both of which acknowledge the links between asbestos exposure and various cancers and respiratory diseases, were referenced by T-Ban to substantiate the global consensus supporting the worldwide banning of asbestos. See: T-Ban Declaration May 10, 2012.

Partial Victory for Busan Victims

May 10, 2012

The Coordinator of the Asian Ban Asbestos Network, Sugio Furuya, reports a legal victory in the Busan District Court, where the families of two mesothelioma victims who had lived near a Busan asbestos textile factory and three asbestosis victims who had worked at that plant succeeded in their civil case for damages against the company Jeil E&S. Jeil was ordered to pay 60% of the damages for the mesothelioma claimants and 90% of the damages for the asbestosis victims. Cases brought by the victims against the Korean Government and the Japanese asbestos company Nichias did not succeed.

Asbestos Contamination in Soil

May 9, 2012

An investigation begun last year by the Ministry of Environment (MoE) has established that 42% of the soil around three derelict mines in Bibong, Yangsa and Sindoek contained asbestos fibers. Of the 2,512 hectares surveyed, 1,058 hectares were found to be contaminated. Acknowledging that this situation endangered the health of people in the surrounding areas, the MoE has promised to initiate health screening this year for 2,500 at-risk people. In 2013, health check-ups will be extended to include others who live in areas where asbestos contamination may also pose a risk to human health. See: Asbestos Contamination in Soil.

Trade Union Action to Ban Asbestos

May 7, 2012

Unionists called on the Chief Minister of Kerala to ban asbestos in the state at a rally to mark International Workers Memorial Day 2012. In a memorandum to Chief Minister Chandy, the unionists highlighted the global consensus backing the growing movement to ban asbestos. The keynote speech on April 27 was given by Sudharshan Rao Sarde, Director of the International Metalworkers Federation for South Asia who added his support for a state ban, recalling the 2009 decision of the Kerala Human Rights Commission that recognized asbestos health hazard and said asbestos should not be used in the construction of schools. See: Indian trade unionists urge Government of Kerala to ban asbestos.

Asbestos Audits in Public Buildings

Apr 24, 2012

The Korean Government, which banned asbestos in 2009, has been under pressure from asbestos victims' groups to improve conditions for the injured and take steps to protect the population from hazardous exposures. Today (April 24), regulations were adopted at a weekly Cabinet meeting led by the Prime Minister which introduced a requirement mandating asbestos audits of larger state and public buildings; in some cases, control measures will now be required. Levels of airborne asbestos near sites being decontaminated will be limited to 0.01 part per cubic centimetre. See: Regulations on asbestos levels strengthened.

Update on Asbestos Developments

Apr 20, 2012

The Spring 2012 issue of the online journal Occupational Safety and Rights issued by the ANROEV Secretariat includes details of the 2011 meeting of the Asian Ban Asbestos Network in Jaipur, Rajasthan (see: Jaipur Declaration towards a worldwide ban on asbestos) as well as a round-up of other recent asbestos events such as the landmark verdicts achieved in Belgium and Italy by asbestos victims, the establishment in Thailand of a new ban asbestos group – Thai-BAN – and a tribute to ban asbestos campaigner Rachel Lee who died of mesothelioma in December 2011. See: Occupational Safety and Rights Issue Number 24.

Asbestos Victims' Workshop

Apr 5, 2012

On March 20-22, 2012, an asbestos workshop was held in Seoul which brought together asbestos victims from Ban Asbestos Japan and Ban Asbestos Korea to identify common problems and delineate options to improve the plight of asbestos victims. Issues under discussion included the hazard posed by asbestos contamination at sites such as asbestos mines and apartment complexes built near former asbestos processing facilities. This meeting was the latest collaboration in a process that has been ongoing since 2007. A protest was held by workshop participants and local people at an apartment complex sited near an identified source of asbestos pollution.

Asbestos Victims Protest

Apr 4, 2012

A sit-in (Dharna) which began on March 31, is now in its 5th day in front of the Ahmedabad offices of the National Institute of Occupational Health. The protest by former asbestos mineworkers frustrated by the continued refusal to release medical reports on their injuries has been organized by the Rajasthan State Mine Labour Union. The results of medical tests carried out on the workers from Udaipur, Rajasthan in June 2011 were promised by February 2012; a second deadline of March 29 was also not met. Without the results, the affected individuals remain unable to get free medical treatment or compensation. See: Asbestos hazard: NIOH indifference forces mining workers from South Rajasthan to protest.

Asbestos Comic and Toy House

March 7, 2012

Innovative resources in Thai and English have been uploaded to the Thai “No Asbestos” website which include a “Say No to Asbestos Comic” and a colourful toy house showing the location of common asbestos-containing products. This website is operated by the Health Consumer Protection Project, an independent and collaborative project between Chulalongkorn University, Thailand’s first institution of higher learning, and the Thai Health Promotion Foundation. These groups are leading the campaign to raise public and professional awareness of the health hazard posed by Thailand’s consumption of asbestos. See: Asbestos Comic and Asbestos Toy House.

Japan Achieves Total Asbestos Ban

March 1, 2012

Since the use of crocidolite and amosite were banned in Japan in 1995, a series of prohibitions has been implemented on the use of chrysotile asbestos in specific processes and products such as joint sheets, gaskets and gland packing. The new use of chrysotile was prohibited in building and friction materials as of October 1, 2004; this accounted for over 90% of Japanese chrysotile consumption. In 2005, Japan Minister Hidehisa Otsuji announced plans to implement a total asbestos ban within 3 years. Today, March 1, 2012, that ban has been achieved, with the remaining derogations for asbestos having expired.

Call for Asbestos Ban

Feb 19, 2012

The Indian Prime Minister has been petitioned to ban the use of asbestos by the Occupational and Environmental Health Network of India (OEHNI), a campaigning group based in New Delhi. An OEHNI communiqué dated February 13, 2012, which was endorsed by hundreds of individuals from around the world, appealed to the Government to “set a three year time frame for the complete phase out of all manufacture and use of asbestos.” During the intervening period, immediate steps should be taken to quantify the asbestos hazard and implement precautionary measures to minimize hazardous exposures. See: OEHNI Petition: Ban Use of Asbestos Products in India.

Court Calls for Asbestos Ban

Jan 28, 2012

On January 25, 2012, the Kerala High Court called on the Indian Government to ban asbestos in order to protect human health. Justices C N Ramachandran Nair and Babu Mathew P Joseph also asked the central government and customs commissioner for reports on current asbestos policies which permit the import of raw asbestos and asbestos-containing products into India when so many other nations have banned this trade on health grounds. The case has been remanded into the jurisdiction of the Acting Chief Justice whose remit is to hear cases involving public interest litigation. See: Why not ban asbestos, HC asks.

No Asbestos Regulations

Jan 27, 2012

According to APHEDA, an Australian aid agency, there are no asbestos regulations in Lao People's Democratic Republic, formerly known as Laos. Into this unregulated regime, APHEDA says, thousands of tonnes of asbestos and asbestos-containing products are being imported annually putting unknown numbers of workers and members of the public at risk. A coalition of groups has identified factories producing asbestos-cement roofing material where hazardous occupational conditions are of serious concern; "asbestos is stored in the open, with bags frequently torn open accidentally allowing asbestos fibre to escape into the air." See: Asbestos in Asia: Breaking Through the Silence in Lao PDR.

Honors for Ban Asbestos Activists

Dec 20, 2011

At an inaugural event today in Seoul, awards will be presented to activists in the global fight to ban asbestos. The ceremony is being organized by environmental groups including the Ban Asbestos Network of Korea, the Asian Citizen's Center for Environmental Health and others to recognize outstanding achievements in 2011. Mesothelioma sufferer Rachel Lee, who has campaigned vigorously since her diagnosis, is receiving the top award. In November, Rachel journeyed to India to plead with the government to end asbestos use. Canadian Ban Asbestos Campaigner Kathleen Ruff is also being honored for her "tireless effort and dedication," to exposing her country's asbestos scandal.

Canada Condemned

Nov 24, 2011

In a statement released today, members of the Asian Ban Asbestos Network (A-BAN) condemned the immoral behaviour of Canadian asbestos stakeholders for their aggressive promotion of Canadian chrysotile asbestos exports to Asian markets. The Jaipur Declaration, issued at the 2011 ABAN meeting in Jaipur last week, called "upon the Quebec Government to reject calls from (Canadian) asbestos industry profiteers, in particular the international consortium led by Baljit Chadha, for a $58 million loan guarantee to finance the development of new underground asbestos mining facilities in Quebec." See: A-BAN Press Release.

Government Considers Ban

Nov 7, 2011

Comments circulated by the Indian Government in the run up to the 5th India-EU Seminar on Employment and Social Policy held in Delhi on September 19-20, 2011 have now been uploaded; they document the fact that: "The Government of India is considering the ban [on] the mining and use of chrysotile asbestos in India to protect the workers and the general population against primary and secondary exposure to Chrysotile form of Asbestos." See Seminar Notes. For all the presentations made at the seminar see: Overview and presentations.

Call for Asia to Ban Asbestos

Oct 5, 2011

An article published today by a Professor of Health Economics at the United Nations University International Institute for Global Health, highlights the repercussions of asbestos consumption in Asia and warns that "asbestos is likely to continue to take its toll on public health in Asia for years to come." Asian countries should, he urged "ban asbestos as soon as possible… No matter what is done, however, a surge of ARD [Asbestos-Related Diseases] in Asia should be anticipated in the coming decades. Asian countries, therefore, should not only cease asbestos use but also prepare for an impending epidemic." See: Asia's emerging asbestos epidemic.

Escalation of Asbestos Mortality

Oct 3, 2011

A government report issued on Sunday, October 2, 2011 predicted that deaths from asbestos cancer in Korea will continue rising for another 34 years. According to official sources, between 1996 and 2007, the number of patients diagnosed with mesothelioma more than doubled. Experts claim that the national mesothelioma epidemic will peak in 2045. According to the National Institute of Environment Research, a law which will become effective from April 2012 should prevent up to 20,000 asbestos-related deaths over the next 50 years. See: Asbestos cancer cases to peak in 2045.

Asbestos at Baseball Stadiums

Sep 26, 2011

The Asian Citizen's Center for Environment and Health today announced test results which confirm the risk posed not only to baseball players and coaches of eight Korean baseball teams but also umpires, stadium staff and spectators who visited the Jamsil Baseball Stadium in Seoul and four other venues throughout the country. In 2010, six million fans attended Korean baseball games. Samples taken at the baseball parks earlier this month found tremolite, actinolite and chrysotile asbestos fibers in concentrations which far exceed the permissible level. The soil used at the parks was sourced from two former asbestos mines in North Gyeongsang Province. See: Korea Times report and Baseball demo picture.

Asbestos Ban in West Java

Sep 12, 2011

It was announced last week that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of a West Java district was banning future asbestos industrialization; permits needed for the construction and operation of asbestos manufacturing facilities would no longer be granted in Purwakarta Regency. Authorities are concerned about the "dangers of the use of asbestos in everyday life" and the hazard presented by the disposal of asbestos waste. EPA officials said that as regional implementation of the asbestos ban was required to ensure adequate protection, steps would be taken to raise awareness of the dangers of asbestos throughout the Province of West Java. See: Indonesian news report.

Lawsuit for Para-occupational Exposure

Aug 25, 2011

A double tragedy in Fuji, Japan reached the Shizuoka District Court when the relatives of a 42-year old mesothelioma victim brought a case against the asbestos-cement pipe manufacturer Fuji Kako. The young woman, who in 2010 was diagnosed with the terminal asbestos cancer whilst caring for her Mother, who was also dying of mesothelioma, had attended the employer's onsite nursery from age 3 to 6. An offer by the company of 23 million yen ($300,000) has been rejected as insulting by the family. In Japan, lawsuits for exposure to a worker's asbestos-contaminated clothing are relatively rare. See: Family sues over woman's death from secondhand contact with asbestos.

Street Art versus Asbestos

Aug 12, 2011

A ban asbestos Competition dubbed "Street Art versus the Deadly Dust" was concluded in July 2011 when the AFK team beat 43 others to win the coveted Peoples Choice Award. This contest was launched four months ago to highlight the asbestos hazard, especially to young people, by using a medium - graffiti - with which they were familiar. The competition organizer explained the mutual benefits of this project as follows: "Anti-asbestos activists got to learn the power of visual communication while artists were exposed to the anti-asbestos advocacy. It was mutual learning." In the Philippines, public space is allocated for graffiti art. See: Winning Entries.

India's Asbestos Tsunami

Aug 10, 2011

India's annual consumption of asbestos has nearly trebled from 150,161 tonnes in 2001 to 426,363 tonnes in 2010. India is the world's biggest asbestos importer and the second biggest user, after China. Since 1960, a staggering 8,110,528 tonnes of asbestos has been used in India. During the UK's asbestos century, total national consumption was 6 million tonnes, resulting in, currently, 4,000+ asbestos-related deaths per annum. Considering the expanding and uncontrolled use of asbestos in India, there can be no doubt about the huge toll the country will pay for the deadly use of asbestos. See: India's Asbestos Time Bomb.

Asbestos Time Bomb in Bangladesh

Aug 8 2011

A "National Consultation Meeting on Asbestos" was held in Dhaka on August 6, 2011 to launch Asbestos Time Bomb In Bangladesh, a report by the Bangladesh Occupational Health, Safety and Environmental Foundation describing the dangerous and widespread expansion of asbestos use in Bangladesh. From small-scale back street operations to ship-breaking yards and industrial premises, asbestos fiber and asbestos-containing products are being processed in conditions which seriously endanger occupational and public health. A wide variety of unlabelled asbestos products are on sale to consumers, who have no knowledge about the asbestos hazard.

Demonstration in Seoul

Jul 29, 2011

Campaigners from the Ban Asbestos Network of Korea (BANKO) demonstrated today in downtown Seoul in front of the offices of the Hyundai Motor Group to highlight the use by the automotive and steel industries of raw materials contaminated with asbestos. Despite the ban introduced in Korea in 2009 on the import, use and sale of asbestos, there appears to be no attention paid to the hazards posed by exposure to asbestos-contaminated raw materials. Rocks containing asbestos are used for landscaping and building cycle tracks or public parks. BANKO protestors called on the Government to take action to outlaw these dangerous practices.

Protest against Asbestos Factory

Jun 14, 2011

Plans to build a new asbestos plant in Vaishali, Bihar led to a dharna (sit-in demonstration) by local people outside the office of the District Magistrate on June 13. Addressing the dharna, Rajkumar Chaudhary of the Citizens' Forum against Asbestos, said the state government's approval of plans to build an asbestos-processing factory in a populated urban area was unacceptable; due to its hazardous nature, asbestos has been banned in 55 countries. Chaudhary urged citizens to take action to protect public health and support the campaign to shut down construction of the controversial factory. See: Mass Movement in Bihar Blog.

International Asbestos Conference

Jun 3, 2011

Last month, representatives from civil society, international agencies, government and industry attended the conference: Asbestos - Policies and Practices in Kyrgyzstan and International Chemicals Policy, in Bishkek, capital of Kyrgyzstan,. Despite disruptions caused by members of the asbestos lobbying group, the International Alliance of Chrysotile Trade Unions, informative presentations describing the disastrous consequences of asbestos exposure were given by eminent experts. The event was organised by the European-based NGO Women in Europe for a Common Future and their Kyrgyz partner organization. See: Final Resolution in English or in Russian.

Thailand Bans Asbestos

May 4, 2011

In the aftermath of recent discussions amongst members of the Thai Government (See: Progress on Thailand Asbestos Ban), confirmation has been obtained that the Thai Cabinet has approved a resolution proposed by the National Health Commission to ban the use of asbestos. Imports of asbestos will be illegal from 2011 and the sale of all asbestos products will be banned from 2012! Although documentation on these developments is not yet available in English, this news been relayed by an observer in Thailand.

Thailand Considers Asbestos Ban

Apr 12, 2011

Thailand's Cabinet is today in discussion about implementing a national ban on asbestos, having studied submissions by the National Health Commission (NHC). If the prohibitions are adopted, the import and use of all types of asbestos will be forbidden in all products including textiles, friction, insulation and construction material. The NHC's Secretary-General Dr Amphon Jindawattana has said that "Thailand must move to a non-asbestos organic society by the year 2012 [and] all asbestos must be totally banned in Thailand." According to NHC estimates, asbestos consumption in Thailand will lead to an explosion in asbestos-related lung cancer. See: The Nation online report.

Asbestos danger in Hong Kong

Mar 29, 2011

At a Hong Kong press conference on March 29, 2011 warnings were issued about the threat posed by asbestos liberated during refurbishment and demolition work. A preliminary evaluation by the Hong Kong Workers' Health Centre (HKWHC) found that almost 80% of buildings earmarked for renovation by local authorities contain asbestos. Additionally, HKWHC's project manager Trevor Sun reported disturbing findings from Choi Yuen Village and Lower Ngau Tau Kok (II) Estate where contaminated building debris was observed throughout demolition sites. Sun called on the Environmental Protection Department and the Labor Department to step up government supervision. See: China Daily news report.

Post-Catastrophe Contamination

Mar 28, 2011

Occupational health and safety specialists traveled to areas affected by the tsunami and earthquake last week to investigate levels of asbestos contamination. They inspected damaged buildings and located asbestos debris amidst the devastation in Miyagi prefecture and Wakabayashi ward. Fuyushi Nagakura from the Asbestos Center and Toyoki Nakao from Occupational Safety and Health Center took air samples in the city center and distributed masks. Their findings will be reported in due course. Before Japan banned the use of asbestos (2004), it was one of the world's leading asbestos consumers; although consumption decreased from the 1980s, in 2000 Japan still used 85,440 tonnes.

Restart of Asbestos Mining?

Mar 24, 2011

News has been received of a meeting in New Delhi last month convened by the Ministry of Mines to progress discussions on "lifting of ban on grant and renewal of mining leases for chrysotile asbestos." According to a 6-page government memo circulated to Ministry officials, it is the responsibility of Indian employers to provide "legal, moral, social" protective measures for "workmen and to the public or all those who are exposed to harmful consequences of their products." The document points out that India's Supreme Court "has never ordered for ban on asbestos mining except to take preventive measures as stated above."

Progress of Ban Asbestos Bill

Mar 16, 2011

Legislation to ban asbestos is proceeding in the Philippines with the approval of a bill by the House of Representatives Committee on Ecology on March 16, 2011. The proposed legislation would phase-out asbestos use over three years and establish a central registry for exposed workers as well as a medical surveillance system for the early detection and treatment of asbestos-related diseases. This is the beginning of the legislative process and there are a slew of other Congressional hurdles to overcome before the bill becomes law. With increasing ban asbestos mobilization in the Philippines there is, however, reason to be optimistic. See: TUCP/ALU/BWI Report.

Sonom, Hare and their Classmates

Feb 26, 2011

Interesting details regarding the protests in the Indian town of Muzaffarpur over plans to build an asbestos-cement factory have emerged in a BBC News Online Report. Mobilization against the developers' plans has been generated by teenagers Hare Krishna and Sonam Singh who learned about the hazards of asbestos at school. Armed with this knowledge, they and their classmates launched protests which have, for the time being, forced a cessation in construction work. "If the government allows the factory they should first burn our schools books in which they teach us about the deadly effects of asbestos," says Sonam. See also: Violent Attack on Asbestos Critics.

Clarification

Feb 22, 2011

An article uploaded on February 19, entitled Misinterpretation of Indian Court Decision has been revised to take into account information subsequently received. On its own, the decision handed down by the Indian Supreme Court (SC) in the Kalyaneshwari case is open to misinterpretation due to a lack of clarity and punctuation. Although section 15 clearly states "there is an urgent need for a total ban on the import and use of white asbestos," when the decision is read in conjunction with a parliamentary bill (2009) it becomes clear that the SC is quoting the text from that bill and not voicing its own opinion. See: Misinterpretation of Indian Court Decision (Revised).

Government Action on Asbestos Ban

Feb 13, 2011

Following discussions at the 3rd National Health Assembly (NHA) in December 2010, talks are progressing about the implementation of an asbestos ban in Thailand. The proposals under consideration are in line with the NHA pro-ban consensus: "Scientific evidence has revealed that all types of asbestos are health hazards, not only for workers in the manufacturing plants but also for users of the material ... The assembly proposes that the Industry Ministry outlaws the material by 2011, whether in import and export, possession or manufacturing… The government should set an example by prohibiting asbestos in future construction of government buildings." See: NHA Resolutions

Outrage at Asbestos Industry Plans

Feb 11, 2011

The debate over the commercialization of asbestos in India is pouring out onto the streets and newspapers in India. Yesterday, a public rally was held in Patna, the capital of Bihar State, against plans to set up an asbestos-cement factory in the town at Marwan. The police attacked the demonstrators. On February 9, members of the Citizens Forum Against Asbestos met with Bihar Ministers to discuss the controversial proposal to impose the factory on the town. See the Telegraph (of India) article. On February 11, falsehoods contained in a letter from an asbestos lobbyist published in The Hindu newspaper (Feb 10) were exposed by the IBAS Coordinator; see The Hindu: Letters to the Editor.

Ban on Asbestos-Cement Pipes

Feb 7, 2011

A new excise policy has been announced by Mrs. Kiran Choudhary, newly appointed Minister to the Haryana State Cabinet. Speaking in the North Indian capital of Chandigarh, the Minister of Excise and Taxation said: "Now, asbestos cement pipes would not be used in any work to ensure durable work of drinking water and sewerage lines." This decision complies with guidelines adopted by the World Bank in May 2009 which urged the "avoidance of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) in new construction and new materials for renovation…" See: World Bank Good Practice Note (Asbestos).

People Power in Bihar

Feb 1, 2011

As people power seems on the verge of a massive victory in Egypt, local people in Muzaffarpur, Bihar continued to resist the imposition of an unwanted asbestos-cement factory by Balmukund Cement & Roofing Ltd., a Kolkata-headquartered company specializing in the production of building materials for roofing, ceiling, walls, and cladding. On February 1, a massive protest took place at the proposed construction site of the new plant. The peaceful crowd was addressed by political leaders from some of the nine left-wing parties supporting their action. See: picture of the "dharna" (demonstration) and the article Violent Attack on Asbestos Critics.

Report by Asian Solidarity Delegation

Jan 13, 2011

A report prepared and published by the Asian Ban Asbestos Network provides a wealth of information about the mission carried out last month by the Asian Solidarity Delegation to Quebec. The document includes details of the activities which took place, background material pertinent to this mission - such as export statistics, production data and graphs - weblinks to reports about the delegation's visit, documents and photographs showing the global repercussions of this initiative. A statement at the beginning of this dossier asks: "How many dead Asians are enough for the Quebec Government to accept that this indefensible trade has to end?"

Landmark Payout in India

Dec 28, 2010

On December 23, 2010, a press conference was held in Mumbai at which asbestosis victims of British company T&N Ltd. received compensation payments for their illnesses. The Ghatkopar plant, run by T&N subsidiary Hindustan Composites, processed raw asbestos in extremely hazardous conditions. The receipt of this money is the culmination of years of work and marks a landmark in workers' rights in India. Warning negligent companies which operate in India, Union President Sanjay Singhvi said: "foreign companies (must) stop treating Indian workers like objects for experiment." See: Huge Victory for Indian Workers and Mumbai Mirror Report.

Protest over New Asbestos Factory

Dec 19, 2010

Local people in the Indian state of Bihar are attracting support for their campaign against the construction of an asbestos sheet manufacturing unit on agricultural land in the Kanti locality, in Muzaffarpur district. Their campaign "Khet Bhachao Jeevan Bachao" (Save fields, save life) popular with local people is attracting media attention as well as the interest of local politicans. In a letter written to a government officer, social activist Medha Patkar, who is supporting this campaign, wrote that the "asbestos producing unit is an industry which spreads cancer in the vicinity where it is located." See: Times of India report.

Asbestos Victims' Hunger Strike (update)

Dec 7, 2010

On December 4, 2010, a group of former asbestos workers began a hunger strike in front of the offices of a judicial authority to protest at the year-long delay in receiving results of medical tests conducted by National Institute of Occupational Health personnel. As no diagnoses have been received, the petitioners, who believe they are suffering from asbestosis, are unable to file compensation claims for their injuries. Community activist Rana Sengupta says that the protestors are determined to see this action through to a conclusion, one way or the other. See: The Times of India article.

Update Dec 7: Picture of the petitioners.

Canada - Stop Slow Motion Bhopals!

Dec 4, 2010

In a press release issued on the 26th anniversary of the Bhopal disaster, civil society groups in India called on international exporters to stop the global trade in asbestos. They highlighted the role played by Baljit Chadha, a Canadian businessman of Indian origin, in the development of plans to build a new chrysotile asbestos mine in Quebec. Drawing a parallel between the Bhopal tragedy and the asbestos trade, the statement concluded: "Bhopal was an example of what goes wrong when corporations and complicit governments rule the world. The continued export of asbestos is a crime against humanity." See: OEHNI Article.

Honda Loses Asbestos Test Case

Dec 2, 2010

On December 1, 2010 the Tokyo District Court found in favor of mesothelioma claimant Hidenari Hane who had been exposed to asbestos whilst employed by a Honda subsidiary in Nagoya, Japan. From 1968 to 1969, Hane had worked as a mechanic replacing asbestos-containing brake parts. Awarding him a sum equivalent to $640,765, Judge Koichiro Matsumoto said that by the time these exposures took place "a major company like Honda should have been fully aware of the [asbestos] risks and the damages at the factory…'' Cases for asbestos damages due to exposures in the automotive sector are rare in Japan. Honda will appeal. See: Japan Today discussion.

16th Asian Games Asbestos-Free?

Nov 15, 2010

The 2010 competition known as the XVI Asiad is taking place in the Chinese city of Guangzhou from November 12 to 27, 2010. Like the Beijing Olympics 2008, it is believed that the use of asbestos has been forbidden in the construction of the Games' infrastructure. A spokesperson for a building supplier based in Guangzhou confirmed that his company had sold in excess of 1.5 million square meters of asbestos-free fibre cement products for use in construction of buildings and facilities for the Games. See: China Expands Asbestos Ban.

Launch of New Victims' Initiative

Nov 14, 2010

On November 16, 2010, a meeting of Korean asbestos victims will be held in Hong- Sung City, Kwang-Chun county, formerly the location of the country's biggest asbestos mine. The event, organized by the Ban Asbestos Network of Korea and the Korean Association for Asbestos Victims and Families, will be attended by scores of mesothelioma sufferers and victims of other asbestos-related diseases. Under discussion will be loopholes in the country's asbestos victims' relief law, mobilizing local support for direct action and initiatives to strengthen the campaign by asbestos victims; a new office will be officially opened by the group representing the asbestos-injured from the mining area.

Indian Bid for Canadian Mine Condemned

Oct 14, 2010

In a press release issued today, ban asbestos campaigners decried news that an Indian consortium is planning a takeover of the Jeffrey Asbestos mine in Quebec. "It is unconscionable that Indian investors want to open up new asbestos mine that would export this deadly product to India and elsewhere," said Mohit Gupta, Coordinator of Occupational and Health Network of India. Echoing his sentiments, trade unionist Anup Srivastava added: "if the bid is successful… the deadly asbestos from Jeffrey mines would be exported to Asia and other countries for decades to come." See: Press Release.

Victory in Rajasthan!

Aug 10, 2010

Plans by commercial interests in India to reopen asbestos mines were dashed by a decision announced on August 3, 2010 that the Government of Rajasthan, the location of the majority of India's asbestos deposits, would not lift a ban on asbestos mining leases. Although it is not unknown for asbestos mining operations to continue in the absence of a valid lease, this decision is a major victory for groups working in India to highlight the asbestos hazard and obtain justice for those who have been injured. See: Asbestos mining: Rajasthan withdraws plea to lift ban.

Asbestos Conference in South East Asia

Jul 26, 2010

Trade unionists affiliated with the Building and Woodworkers International (BWI) will be holding a conference in Jakarta on August 2-4, 2010. The South East Asia Regional Conference on Asbestos will be addressed by international experts and regional activists including BWI personnel Fiona Murie and Apolinar Tolentino, trade unionist Deb Vallance from Australia and campaigners Sugio Furuya and Yeyong Choi, respectively from Japan and Korea. Issues such as the availability of asbestos-free substitutes, health surveillance and asbestos mapping will be discussed. For more information see Conference Agenda.

Asian Ministers Discuss Asbestos

Jul 16, 2010

Representatives of Ban Asbestos Korea and the Asian Ban Asbestos Network raised the issue of asbestos with representatives of international agencies and national governments participating in the Second Ministerial Regional Forum on Environment and Health in Southeast and East Asian Countries which took place on July 14 & 15, 2010 in Jeju, Korea. The ban asbestos campaigners highlighted issues such as Canadian financing of a new asbestos mine in Quebec and the rising tide of asbestos exports to Asia. For more information, see the ECO Health bulletin circulated at this meeting.

Asbestos: A Silent Killer

Jun 14, 2010

A video uploaded this month provides the opportunity for Asian experts and campaigners to highlight the export of hazardous asbestos technology to developing countries. Although the Malaysian Government has previously stated that a comprehensive national ban would be implemented by 2015, observers are now questioning the government's intention to honor this commitment. Comments by Dr. K. G. Rampal, Sanjiv Pandita, G. Rajasekaran and Apolinar Tolentino Jr. focus on the hazards posed by all types of asbestos and the urgent need for a total ban to be implemented. See: Asbestos: A Silent Killer video.

Raising Asbestos Awareness

Jun 9, 2010

On June 11, a seminar will be held to address the dangers posed by asbestos contamination in Kazakhstan. A report based on research conducted by local NGOs, working with European Union partners, will be distributed at the meeting; it highlights the widespread and unregulated use of asbestos in construction materials and the lack of any controls on dumping of asbestos-containing construction waste. Samples of chrysotile asbestos obtained locally and from Ukraine and Romania which were analyzed by a German laboratory confirm that populations in these countries are routinely being exposed to carcinogenic material.

Historic Verdict Against Government

May 20, 2010

Yesterday, Judge Konishi of the Osaka District Court issued a verdict ordering the Japanese Government to pay 430 million yen ($4.6 m) to 29 claimants including workers and residents who contracted asbestosis and lung cancer. Even though the State had been aware of the asbestos hazard before 1960, it had not ensured the implementation of protective measures. As a direct result of the Government's failures, the plaintiffs suffered the exposures which made them ill. A Japanese news analyst said this is the first time a central government has been found responsile for asbestos-related deaths. See: NHK World video report.

Recognition of Environmental ARDs

Apr 29, 2010

At the 6th meeting of the asbestos subcommittee of the Central Environment Council, an advisory body to the Japanese Minister of the Environment, on April 28, 2010 in Tokyo, a recommendation was approved to add asbestosis and diffuse pleural thickening to the list of compensatable diseases for injured people whose exposure to asbestos did not occur occupationally. Until now, this list had only included the asbestos cancer, mesothelioma and asbestos-related lung cancer. It is anticipated that these changes will be implemented from July 1, 2010.

Retrograde Step by Government

April 13, 2010

On April 11, 2010, Bangladesh removed requirements for ship-owners to prove that vessels are free of toxic substances prior to bringing them into the country to be dismantled. Environmentalists were highly critical of this economically-motivated U-turn which will have serious health repercussions for workers and people living near the ship-breaking beaches. For over 20 years, commercial ship-breaking operations have been a major business in Bangladesh; scrap steel salvaged during dismantling work, is highly prized by local industries. It is estimated that every year, 1,000 ships are broken down in Bangladesh, India and Pakistan.

Criminal Case Against Asbestos Executive

Apr 5, 2010

Criminal charges have been brought against the Manager of Gujarat Composites Limited (formerly Sri Digvijay Cement) for infringements of safety and health regulations. The production of asbestos-cement building materials on this site have poisoned generations of workers. The case was filed by the Director of Industrial Safety and Health for the state of Gujarat towards the end of March 2010; the first hearing will take place on April 13, 2010 in Ahmedabad Metropolitan Court. For more information on asbestos misuse in Gujarat, see The Struggle Against Asbestos-Related Diseases in Gujarat in: India's Asbestos Time Bomb.

Events Mark Asbestos Law Anniversary

Mar 29, 2010

A series of events took place in Tokyo last week to mark the fourth anniversary of the non-occupational asbestos victims' relief law. These included: a demonstration outside Sinjuku station (March 26), a mass meeting calling for fundamental improvements to asbestos laws (March 27) and the 22nd annual meeting of Ban Asbestos Japan (BANJAN). Delegates from Korea, including two former asbestos textile workers from Pusan and a representative of the construction trade union, took part in the BANJAN meeting.

Innovative Asbestosis Project

Mar 12, 2010

The Occupational Health & Safety Centre, established in 1988, has been pioneering a ground-breaking project on behalf of people with asbestosis who received hazardous exposures during employment with a company in Mumbai owned by the UK asbestos giant: Turner & Newall Ltd. Having identified injured parties from the workforce of Asbestos Magnesia and Friction Materials Company (later known as Hindustan Ferodo), compensation claims, which were submitted to a UK asbestos trust tasked with adjudicating claims from former T&N workers, are now progressing. For more information see: Full project details or OHSC summary.

New Asbestos Law in Korea

Feb 26, 2010

The Korean Parliament passed an asbestos victims' relief law on February 26, 2010 after a sustained campaign by asbestos victims groups and labor federations. From January 1, 2011, the legislation will provide compensation for sufferers of mesothelioma, asbestosis and lung cancer who were environmentally exposed to asbestos.
There are some flaws in the legislation such as very low levels of compensation, which are about 10-20% of those awarded by the occupational insurance system for the same asbestos-related diseases. Campaigners from Ban Asbestos Korea (BANKO) promise to lobby for improvements.

Asbestos Issues on Tehran Agenda

Feb 25, 2010

During the 4th National Congress on Occupational Diseases, which took place in the Iranian capital this week, Drs. Mehrdad, Saleh Pour and Kakooei gave presentations on a range of asbestos-related issues; the topics they covered were Asbestos Use in Asia and Iran, Occupational Lung Cancers and Mesothelioma and Asbestos as an Air Pollutant. These sessions were attended by 200 physicians. Attempts to establish an Asbestos Team in Iran are on-going. With an annual asbestos usage of around 50,000 tonnes, Iran is currently the 5th largest asbestos consumer in Asia.

Concerns over India's Asbestos Consumption

Feb 20, 2010

Despite the "refusenik" positions adhered to by industry stakeholders, there is a global consensus that asbestos should be banned. That this has not happened leaves the way clear for entrepreneurs to exploit legislative vacuums to profit from an industry which has proved fatal to millions. The current conditions in which asbestos is used in India are discussed by experts as are their dire predictions in an article published in The Lancet today. U.S. asbestos expert Dr. Arthur Frank concludes that "We can expect a lot more death and disease…"
See: Lancet Article.

Asia's Asbestos Tsunami

Feb 15, 2010

An insightful article published online today points out that: "In parts of Asia, carrying 500 grams of one white powder draws a death sentence but importing 1,000 tons of another lethal white dust is both legal and profitable." Author Melody Kemp details the hazardous effects of asbestos mining and processing in Russia and Kazakhstan, and the consequences of asbestos consumption in developing countries like India where politicans work hand in glove with asbestos stakeholders. She highlights work being done by civil society throughout Asia to mobilize support for national asbestos bans. See: CorpWatch article

Quebec Hypocrisy Denounced in Mumbai

Feb 1, 2010

Indian and Canadian reporters attended a press conference held by campaigners, trade unions, NGOs and victims to mark the visit of Quebec's Premier to Mumbai. The purpose of the event was to highlight Quebec's hypocritical stance regarding asbestos, a product being ripped out of public buildings in Quebec and exported in quantity to India. In a press release issued by the conference organizers they urged the Premier to: "act on the behalf of the people of Quebec and ensure that the export of Asbestos is stopped."

Taiwan Bans Remaining Uses of Asbestos

Jan 27, 2010

Having previously banned the use of asbestos in construction materials (2008), from Jan 1, 2010 Taiwan prohibited asbestos from being added to composite resins (adhesives), waterproofing sealants, anti-corrosive paints, caulking, fireproofing, insulating materials, tape, cloth, rope, mats, filters and asphalt. Registration of new asbestos manufacturers and permission to use asbestos in the products listed above was prohibited from August 2009, (see EPA announcement in: EPM12-08 doc). An ongoing review of work with asbestos-containing building materials will be conducted as part of the EPA's remit to "safeguard the health of the nation and preserve a sustainable environment."

Compensation for Japanese Victims

Jan 20, 2010

An international seminar is being held in Tokyo on February 2, 2010 to consider methods used by national governments to compensate victims whose exposure to asbestos was non-occupational. Speakers from France, Belgium, the Netherlands and the UK will detail schemes established in their countries for distributing benefits to this category of injured people. This meeting is being organized by the Environmental Restoration and Conservation Agency, the body responsible for setting up such a relief scheme in Japan.

Campaigners Raise Asbestos Profile in India

Dec 21, 2009

An Asbestosis Workshop was held in New Delhi on December 21, 2009 by the Occupational and Environmental Health Network of India (OEHNI). Occupationally and environmentally caused cases of asbestosis diagnosed in Rajasthan were discussed. As a result of the presentations and discussions which took place during the day, it was announced that a working party would be convened to investigate occupational and environmental exposures to asbestos (See: Summary Report).

U.S. Dumps Toxic Ship in India

Oct 25, 2009

The arrival of the Platinum II, formerly known as the SS Oceanic and the SS independence, at Alang on October 7, 2009 broke international and national laws. It is believed that the ship is contaminated with 250 tonnes of asbestos and 210 tonnes of PCBs. U.S. authorities permitted the ship to sail after its former owners paid a $500,000 penalty. The ship's arrival in Gujarat contravenes the Basel Convention under which India is not permitted to receive hazardous waste from the U.S. or any foreign source without prior notification and specific consent from the Indian Government. See: CommonDreams.org report

Ban Bill Progressing in the Phillipines

Sep 10, 2009

On September 9, 2009, the lower house of Congress approved a bill consolidating legislation to ban the import, manufacture, processing, use and distribution of asbestos and asbestos-containing products. The Chair of the House Committee on Health said that the new bill would be approved by October 1, 2009. The bill is strongly supported by the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines, the Philippine College of Occupational Medicine and the Department of Health which believes, as does the ILO and WHO, that the best way to eliminate asbestos-related disease is to stop using asbestos.

Rise in Toxic Ship-breaking in Gujarat

Aug 31, 2009

The global recession has led to a rise in the scrapping of redundant ships in Gujarat's ship-breaking yards. Observers estimate that since the economic downturn began, the number of vessels being processed in Alang has doubled. In the coming weeks, two US-government owned ships are due to be beached along the coast, the first time since a 1998 moratorium was imposed by President Clinton. Beach breaking, which is illegal in Europe, exposes workers to a cocktail of toxins including asbestos. See: Alang: The place where ships go to die.

Medical Asbestos Awareness in Iran

Aug 20, 2009

On August 20, 2009, a medical symposium on asbestos will take place at the Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences in Tehran; subjects on the agenda include screening for asbestos-related diseases, radiological and pathological findings for asbestosis and mesothelioma and treatment therapies.

Agenda for Asbestos Action

Aug 10, 2009

Local mobilization on asbestos was the subject of a meeting held at the offices of Walhi Jawa - an environmental NGO -- in Bandung on August 10, 2009. Amongst the issues discussed was progress in: identifying medical specialists, defining community action points, and developing outreach projects for at-risk groups. Future workshops and meetings are planned.

Canadian TV Asbestos Expose

Jun 10, 2009

The prime-time broadcast of a documentary entitled: Canada's Ugly Secret revealed the uncontrolled use of Canadian asbestos in an Indian textile factory. Workers were filmed picking up raw asbestos with their bare hands to feed into processing equipment; the total lack of all health and safety precautions resulted in the dusty conditions which could be observed. This footage exposes the asbestos industry's fallacious propaganda which alleges that asbestos can be used safely under "controlled conditions." Such conditions have not been achieved anywhere in the developed world and are unlikely to be achieved in developing countries.