Asbestos contamination a recurring OH&S issue

In Australia and New Zealand asbestos was widely used in construction and other industries between 1945 and 1980. The use of asbestos was phased out in 1989 and banned entirely in December 2003.

The dangers of asbestos are now well known worldwide. So why do we still have problems dealing with it?

Telstra has recently been forced to delay the restart of work on the pits and pipes needed for the National Broadband Network as is tries to get their subcontractors up to the mark on dealing with asbestos.    This is after a 3 month shutdown with many jobs and industries affected.  You can read an article about the issue here.

The company Fletcher Building’s Winstone Wallboards in New Zealand was also recently shut down after asbestos was identified.

This is a timely reminder for companies that the workplace health and safety issues associated with asbestos have dramatic consequences in terms of health, safety and the financial implications of a forced shut-down.

This is not a new phenomenon.

Asbestos will be in our workplace and our homes for many years to come.

Safety Services Australia can provide expert advice and support relating to asbestos.

We have experts who have experience dealing with asbestos to ensure the safety of workers, contractors and the general public.