BCFED supports proposed comprehensive asbestos handling rules, urges quick implementation action

December 19, 2018 | News Release

The BC Federation of Labour is supporting the findings of a government report released today that—when implemented—will better protect workers from the severe health and safety risks posed by exposure to materials that contain asbestos.

“After years of lobbying for government to take this issue seriously, we applaud Victoria’s call for licensing and certification requirements for contractors, and increased training for workers that will reduce exposure,” says BCFED President Laird Cronk.

"Exposure to asbestos is the deadliest health and safety risk for BC workers," says Cronk. “Asbestos-related diseases are the number one killer of workers in BC, and workers continue to be exposed to asbestos every day in construction and a variety of other industries.

“That’s why it’s so important that we move as quickly as possible from consultation to concrete action which is long overdue to keep workers safe, and protect the general public as well,” Cronk says.

“We look forward to working with all levels of government and employers to make that happen, and to establish more stringent penalties on employers for violations of the new rules.”