Future Challenges for Asbestos Policy in the Construction Industry

Abstract

Although virtuallty every asbestos product was prohibited in 2006, there remains the potential risk of asbestos exposure through existing buildings. Asbestos-containing materials in buildings require proper upkeep on a routine basis, and appropriate handling during structural demolition and other handling stages. Measures to deal with the asbestos that has accumulated in buildings face two major hurdles. One is the costs associated with maintenance and disposal, and the other is the task of ensuring total implementation. In terms of the construction industry, how to deal with asbestos-related diseases among workers is also significant. Many workers in the construction industry are actually the owners of small, one-person businesses, i.e., sole proprietors, and for that reason they are typically ineligible for workers accident compensation insurance even if they are given a diagnosis of an asbestos-linked illness. It is imperative to fully implement measures aimed at cultivating an accurate awareness of the problems, develop the necessary technologies and frameworks, ensure total compliance with the law, and secure the necessary funding to offset the costs.