Navigating Asbestos Hazards in New Zealand Worksites: Lessons from Recent Discoveries
In recent news, a startling discovery at Dominion Salt’s Mount Maunganui site has put asbestos hazards in the spotlight. Workers were shocked to find the dangerous material present in a site that was presumed to be safe, as detailed in a report by the NZ Herald. The incident has reignited concerns about the ongoing risks posed by asbestos, particularly in older buildings throughout New Zealand. For those in the construction, renovation, and demolition industries, this serves as a crucial reminder of the need for constant vigilance and rigorous safety protocols.
The Lingering Threat of Asbestos in New Zealand
Asbestos was widely used in New Zealand construction projects between the 1940s and 1980s, valued for its durability and fire-resistant properties. However, we now know that asbestos exposure can lead to serious health issues, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Even low levels of exposure can be dangerous, as asbestos fibers can become lodged in the lungs, causing damage that might not manifest for decades.
At the Dominion Salt site, engineers working on a boiler replacement found themselves unknowingly exposed to asbestos. Thick dust filled the air as they worked, but concerns raised by workers were not immediately acted upon. It wasn’t until nearly a week into the job that the site was tested for asbestos, confirming the presence of brown asbestos, which is one of the most hazardous types. The site was immediately shut down, and workers were sent for medical assessments to determine if they had been impacted by this exposure.
This case shows the importance of taking pre-emptive steps in any work involving older structures. Many buildings across New Zealand, particularly those constructed before 1990, may still contain asbestos in walls, ceilings, roofs, pipes, and even in insulation. The risk of asbestos exposure is especially high in buildings that have not undergone recent renovations or safety checks.
Protecting Workers Through Rigorous Testing and Safety Protocols
One of the most alarming aspects of the Dominion Salt incident was the delayed testing for asbestos, despite early concerns from workers. This delay places workers in an unnecessary risk, revealing the critical need for companies to take proactive measures when there is even the slightest suspicion of asbestos.
At Chemcare, we believe that prevention is the key to managing asbestos hazards. Before any construction, renovation, or demolition project begins, it is essential to conduct a thorough asbestos survey. This includes testing all materials that could potentially contain asbestos, even if they appear harmless to the surface. By identifying asbestos early, we can take appropriate steps to safely remove or encapsulate the materials before work begins.
Long-Term Health Implications of Asbestos Exposure
For the workers at Dominion Salt, the discovery of asbestos has introduced a level of uncertainty about their future health. One of the most troubling aspects of asbestos related diseases is the long latency period. It can take 10 to 40 years or more for symptoms to emerge after exposure, meaning that those affected may live with the fear of developing an illness for years.
Medical assessments, such as chest X-rays and lung function tests, are critical in the aftermath of asbestos exposure. These tests provide a baseline for doctors to monitor any changes in lung health over time. For those who have been exposed, regular health checks are important to catch any potential issues early.
However, the best approach is to prevent exposure from occurring in the first place. At Chemcare, we work to remove the risk of asbestos-related diseases by providing safe and effective removal services across New Zealand. Whether it’s a residential home, a commercial property, or an industrial site, our team ensures that all asbestos-containing materials are identified and removed in compliance with New Zealand regulations.
Building Awareness: A Shared Responsibility
While incidents like the one at Dominion Salt are unfortunate, they also serve as a valuable reminder of the importance of asbestos awareness and education. Property owners, contractors, and workers must all play a role in recognising and addressing the risks associated with asbestos.
Education is a key component of asbestos management. Workers should be trained to recognise potential asbestos-containing materials and to understand the proper steps to take if they suspect asbestos may be present. Equally important is ensuring that employers take concerns seriously and respond promptly to potential risks, as delays in action can have significant consequences.
For business and property owners, it’s crucial to understand that simply assuming a building is asbestos-free can lead to dangerous oversights. A comprehensive asbestos management plan should be in place for all older buildings, particularly those undergoing repairs or alterations. This plan should include regular inspections, risk assessments, and clear protocols for managing any asbestos that is discovered.
Chemcare: Your Partner in Asbestos Safety
At Chemcare, we understand the critical importance of safeguarding workers and the public from the dangers of asbestos exposure. We offer a full range of asbestos services, including surveying, testing, removal, and disposal, ensuring compliance with New Zealand’s health and safety regulations.
Our experienced team is dedicated to providing reliable and efficient solutions for asbestos management, with a focus on protecting the health of your workers, clients, and community. By choosing Chemcare, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are taking every precaution to eliminate asbestos risks from your project.
Don’t wait until asbestos becomes a problem, take action today. Whether you’re planning a renovation or demolition, or simply want to ensure the safety of your property, contact Chemcare for expert asbestos removal services in New Zealand. Together, we can create safer environments for all.