OHS REPS @ WORK

‘Unfinished business’ was how Victorian unions and support groups dubbed the issue of asbestos at the Monday launch of Asbestos Awareness Week. 

Speaking at the VTHC Memorial Rock, Margot Hoyte, OHS Campaigns Officer, said that WorkSafe Victoria needs to better regulate asbestos in Victorian workplaces. “Asbestos dust and powder aren’t part of our regulations, removal work is carried out for extended periods by unlicensed removalists and WorkSafe is content to allow asbestos to remain in workplaces, and in poor condition, when renovations are being carried out.”

Congratulating the newly elected Rudd Labor government, speakers called for a parliamentary inquiry in order to bring about a nationally consistent approach to asbestos.  “Many Victorian workers are exposed to asbestos every day in their workplace.  Kevin Rudd acknowledged the contribution of Bernie Banton and unions in the recent Alimta campaign in his acceptance speech on Saturday night.  We would like to see that carry through to a parliamentary inquiry on all asbestos related issues,” said Margot Hoyte.

Martin Kingham added to the call for a co-ordinated approach saying “WorkSafe Victoria must lift its game – workers and the community expect better.  Australia suffers the highest known rate of mesothelioma in the world.  This is an urgent issue for my members, workers and the whole community,  both here in Victorian and nationally.”

Anita Steiner, a 45-year-old software programmer, diagnosed with mesothelioma in May 2007 spoke about the personal effects the disease this diagnosis has had on her, her partner and her family.  

In Victoria an estimated 500,000 buildings still contain asbestos while the annual death toll from asbestos-related disease continues to rise, with a peak not expected until 2020.

Other speakers included Leigh Hubbard from ADSVic (Asbestos Diseases Society of Victoria) and James Gunderson from AISS (Asbestos Information and Support Services).

According to James Gunderson – apart from the ACT – there are no national requirements for the audit or removal of domestic asbestos. “Homeowners don’t even have to warn tradespeople of any asbestos risk on their property. Victoria also lags behind States which have dedicated dust disease tribunals, and dust diseases legislation.”