A Brief Guide to Asbestos in Emergencies DRAFT 1 SAFER HANDLING AND BREAKING THE CYCLE

Asbestos in Emergencies WHAT - a simple and practical guide for use in disaster and post-disaster situations WHO - for generalists or specialists in the field needing quick but reliable guidance WHY - access to basic information when needed, and to avoid causing unnecessary additional damage to human health WHERE - booklet and training module downloadable at and

Asbestos in Emergencies a) SAFER HANDLING How to handle existing or suspected asbestos-containing products in rubble or damaged buildings b) BREAKING THE CYCLE How to avoid using asbestos-containing products in transitional settlement and reconstruction

Asbestos in Emergencies GROUP DISCUSSION: Problems encountered in the field a)How did you deal with existing or suspected asbestos- containing products in rubble or damaged buildings? b)Did you come under pressure to use asbestos-containing products in transitional settlement and reconstruction activities?

Asbestos in Emergencies ASBESTOS FACTS Naturally occurring rock-based fibrous material High mechanical strength Electrical, thermal and acoustic insulator Chrysotile is the most common type of asbestos

Asbestos in Emergencies ASBESTOS HEALTH RISKS Inhalation of Asbestos fibres can cause asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer (WHO) There is no known safe level of exposure to asbestos Even low level exposure can increase cancer risk

Asbestos in Emergencies COMMON USES OF ASBESTOS Asbestos-cement roofing sheets Asbestos-cement water pipes Asbestos ceilings and floors Other examples?

Asbestos in Emergencies LEGISLATION, GUIDELINES AND RECOMMENDATIONS Banned in > 40 countries UNHCR: “…materials containing asbestos should not be specified, used or recommended in its operations…” WHO: “… stop the use of all types of asbestos…” ILO: “… identification and proper management of asbestos currently in place … the most effective means to prevent future asbestos-related diseases…”

Asbestos in Emergencies POST-DISASTER ASBESTOS HANDLING Provide protective equipment and training Do not disturb it, break it or cut it Never burn it Wet it Cover it Wrap it up

Asbestos in Emergencies POST-DIASASTER ASBESTOS DISPOSAL Appropriate site selection Clearly labelled vehicles Cover the waste Restrict access with fencing Post warning signs Final closure

Asbestos in Emergencies SELECTING MATERIALS FOR RECONSTRUCTION National legislation Local construction practices Ask for certification Laboratory testing Alternative materials Avoid purchasing new asbestos-containing materials!

Asbestos in Emergencies CONCLUSIONS Humanitarian organisations a) Deal with existing asbestos in rubble or damaged buildings b) Pressure to purchase new asbestos products for transitional settlement or reconstruction Simple measures can help minimise asbestos-related health risks