OHSS News: New Protection In BC For Those Working With Asbestos

16 May 2022

At OHSS, we provide the full spectrum of occupational health services to businesses up and down the country. Part of what we do relates to asbestos abatement, ensuring that all asbestos regulations are adhered to when it is discovered. 

Our expert consultants ensure all necessary risk assessments, asbestos surveys and vital measures are conducted to protect the health of everyone in the vicinity. Today, however, we bring you news about the hazardous material. 

British Colombia Workers Get New Protections

The news is that workers in British Colombia (BC) are being given additional protection against the dangers of asbestos from the government. Introduced as part of the Workers Compensation Act, employers who carry out work that involves dealing with the deadly material must carry out mandatory safety training and certification. 

What this includes is far-reaching, as it includes matters relating to the assessment, removal, repair, and transportation of asbestos, as well as asbestos removal and disposal.

50% of All Work-Related Disease Deaths Since 2000

While the fact that asbestos hasn’t been used in construction for over 20 years, anyone thinking that it no longer presents a threat is mistaken. Since 2000, it’s responsible for ½ of all work-related disease deaths, as its commonly encountered during the renovation and demolition of older buildings. 

A prominent influence behind the new protection is WorkSafeBC who pointed out that, until now, there’s been a lack of a comprehensive training and licensing system in British Colombia for asbestos abatement contractors.

Their head of prevention services, Al Johnson had this to say: “We support efforts to keep workers safe from the dangers of asbestos by adding further layers of protection and assurance. That’s why we were pleased to participate in the cross-ministry asbestos working group and view the new standards for licensing and safety training as a positive step forward.”

Suspect Asbestos May Be Present? Call the Experts

Due to the widespread use of asbestos in construction during the 1970s and 1980s, the hazardous material is still a very real danger. As such, if you suspect that it might be present in your workplace, do the sensible thing and call the OHSS experts. Our team has the expertise and knowledge to ensure everyone stays safe.

If you’d like to know more about this or our full range of occupational health and training services, please visit us at www.ohss.ie where you’ll find everything you need. Alternatively, to speak to a member of our team, call 01 6905907 and we’ll be more than happy to assist.

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