At the workplace, we also advocate for proper training, so that workers do not get involved in handling asbestos, except in prescribed circumstances. Asbestos is a combination of six naturally occurring minerals – crocidolite, amosite, tremolite, chrysolite, actnolite and anthrophyllite. Its fibrous composition contributes to its characteristic features – resistance to heat and electricity, sound
absorption, high tensile strength, and durability. Due to these factors, asbestos was extensively used for commercial and industrial purposes. Asbestos was used as an important insulating material in boilers, steam engines, thermal products, etc. Asbestos mining had existed for years. However, it was only in the 1920s that asbestos-related health risks gained attention. By 1989, around 500 people(working in the Wittenoom mines in West Australia) had died due to asbestos-related problems. Asbestos fibers can easily be inhaled, which ultimately reach the lungs. Constant or frequent exposure to high concentration of asbestos can lead to severe respiratory problems. It could also lead to fatal diseases like asbestosis, mesothelioma or even lung cancer. In 2003, a nationwide ban on asbestos use was declared in Australia to prevent future contamination. Hence, the need to remove Asbestos. Asbestos Removal is a very sensitive process carried out with utmost care to ensure the safety of the workers and the residents. All workers are provided with safety gears. An action plan is made complying with the rules mentioned. Following which the target materials are identified and removed in a particular type of enclosure. And if you have already been exposed to asbestos, consult a physician and limit smoking. For breathing problems, a thoracic oncologist should be consulted. Asbestos has been used for more than thousands of years but its ill effects have mostly been ignored till the 20th century. Even though there exists a ban on asbestos manufacturing in Australia, it continues to be used in various products. Cases of asbestos exposure come up often, even in 2017. Asbestos is dumped in public places, residents are exposed to it at construction sites. Most of the houses built in the 1980s have some or the other asbestos products. Asbestos Australia believes that it is essential for the people of this decade to be aware of the asbestos use and its ill effects. Asbestos Australia focuses on spreading awareness about the history of asbestos and its impact today, years after it has been banned. Asbestos Australia also advocates for proper training of workers who handle asbestos.
