WorkSafeBC is once again urging owners of pre-1990s homes to talk to their contractor about asbestos before starting home renovations or a demolition.
“Asbestos is safe if left alone, but if disturbed it can cause serious health problems and even death,” said Al Johnson, Vice-President of Prevention Services for WorkSafeBC.
“Today, the most common way to be exposed to asbestos is by unsafe practices during demolition and renovation of homes and buildings.”
Asbestos can be found in more than 3,000 different building materials used in homes built before 1990.
It’s colourless, odourless and deadly when disturbed.
“Over the past decades, the dangers of asbestos exposure have become alarmingly evident, and I commend WorkSafeBC for continuing to raise awareness of this danger — not only in the workplace, but in our homes as well,” said Harry Bains, Minister of Labour.
“WorkSafeBC is part of a provincial working group, led by the Ministry of Labour, which is currently reviewing what can be done to better protect people and the environment from asbestos.”
Contractors are responsible for protecting their workers from asbestos exposure and homeowners who plan to renovate or demolish their homes have the same responsibility.
Johnson urges homeowners with those plans to talk to their contractor and budget for asbestos testing and removal.
“Identifying and removing asbestos may cost more in the short term, but it is the right thing to do and will ensure the health and safety of everyone living or working on the property,” he said.
Asbestos is the number-one killer of workers in B.C. and the rate of asbestos-related disease is on the rise.
More information on asbestos can be found here.
