Asbestos Hub Magazine - Issue 11

ASBESTOS

HUB MAGAZINE THE PREMIER INDEPENDENT, QUARTERLY MAGAZINE FOR THE UK AND GLOBAL ASBESTOS INDUSTRY

#11

Winter 2023

6th ANNUAL EAF CONFERENCE All details from Brussels

AN ASSURED AGENDA Nick Garland columnist debut

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Over 5,000 people die in the UK each year due to asbestos related diseases.

Attention Roofers!

It is a legal requirement that all who may come across asbestos in their day to day work have been provided with the relevant asbestos training.

Asbestos may be found in roofing materials, insulation, and other construction elements you frequently work with.

As a minimum, you need asbestos awareness training to recognise and deal with asbestos risks. If you're directly working with materials that contain asbestos, you'll need a higher level of training.

Have you received asbestos training?

UKATA is a leading authority in asbestos training, committed to improving asbestos awareness and safety across industry.

Book with a UKATA Approved asbestos training provider using the nationwide directory online at www.ukata.org.uk or call 01246 824 437.

Stay vigilant and informed with UKATA.

WWW.UKATA.ORG.UK

INFO@UKATA.ORG.UK UKATA is a not for profit association

PUBLISHER

ASBESTOS HUB ISSUE 11

Ben Chambers

ben@globalnews.media 01903 952 648

EDITOR

Toby Wilsdon

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Nicki Chambers

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Asbestos Hub is in media association with UK Asbestos Training Association (UKATA) Asbestos Hub is published four times a year. Subscription records are maintained at Global News Media Ltd, Suites 5 & 6, Chapel House, 1-6 Chapel Road, Worthing, West Sussex BN11 1EX. Articles and information contained in this publication are the copyright of Global News Media Ltd and may not be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publishers. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss of, or damage to, uncommissioned photographs or manuscripts.

As we close out 2023 two poignant memories from the year resound in my mind.

The loss of Mavis Nye last month after a brave battle needless to say has hit us all very hard and it was towards the end of her life that Colette Willoughby (Chair of NORAC) and Andrew Paten (Co-Founder of UKNAR) commissioned the now famously travelled oil painting of Mavis and Ray. This strong image brilliantly catching their spirit was presented to them both a week before the British Asbestos Awards on Thursday 24 August at their home in Whitstable.

Proudly, it was at our awards-do exactly a week later that that I was asked for them to use our stage and launch the painting to the public in person as well as on all our socials.

I was delighted to offer the platform and to start its world tour. The kudos goes to Andrew and Colette.

Unsurprisingly that very painting was in Brussels earlier this month at the European Asbestos Forum Conference an event that holds the second most memorable occasion for me.

Over the two days all delegates were treated to a truly global asbestos event offering engaging workshops, opinion, knowledge and debate.

The speakers were of an extremely high calibre, and I honestly got more out of this event than any other within my fledgling asbestos media career over the past couple of years.

You can read more about this year’s conference from page 12 and in future issues next year.

We welcome Nick Garland from Assure 360 as a columnist to this eleventh issue and he writes comprehensively on the recent EAF Conference mentioned above, we are absolutely delighted to have Nick involved in Asbestos Hub. Nick’s addition is all part of the 2024 goal of giving more people a voice to comment on the industry and for us to promote more and more of those working within in it and championing those looking to raise asbestos awareness.

I want to thank everybody that was involved in Asbestos Hub Magazine this year, from contributors to advertisers and most importantly of all the readers. I thank those that took part in London at the 2nd British Asbestos Awards and I hope to see you all on 6 September next year as we reward even more.

Have a merry Christmas and a happy new year, we do it all again ready for March’s issue #12.

My very best,

Ben Chambers Publisher, Asbestos Hub ben@globalnews.media

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CONTENTS 6 30

Isn’t it time to stop worrying if contractors working in your buildings have read and understood your latest asbestos registers?

UKATA News: All the latest news and information from the industry body

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The sixth EAF conference: Asbestos and the way forward

The 6th European Asbestos Forum conference: a seminal event by Dr Yvonne Waterman LLM MFAAM Asbestos, the Sharp End

by Nick Garland, founder at Assure360 EAF, Brussels by Kirsty Budenbender, Director of DSK Environmental

Government rejects asbestos removal petition

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“You have cancer” by Heather Von St James

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Asbestos cement products – a low risk material?

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SOCOTEC reinforces position as leading player in the building and real estate market

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Asbestos removal behind early Christmas closure at Welshpool High School

Demolition of burned Tustin hangar underway; asbestos levels ‘below any level of concern’

40 Ian Atherton

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Sussex Scouts warehouse set to be rebuilt due to asbestos concerns

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North Wall cleaner ‘worried for people’s welfare’ after finding hazardous waste with asbestos dumped in Immingham

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Barrow Market set to be relocated next year due to asbestos concerns

J&J working to settle more asbestos related talc cases

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Could recycling rubble contaminated with asbestos be dangerous for Ukrainians?

Clifford Devlin would like to pay tribute to our colleague and friend Ian Atherton who died suddenly on 14 November, 2023. Ian worked for Clifford Devlin for 14 years, where he started at operative level. He soon progressed into a supervisory role along with obtaining his NVQ. He was a hard-working person who got on really well with his colleagues and friends.

Ian was an avid Arsenal fan and was always happy to tell everyone that he was and update everyone on the footie results from the previous weekend.

Steve Greenhalgh (Asbestos Compliance Manager): “I had the pleasure of Ian being my operative when he started with us, I knew after day one that he was a hard worker and we hit it off immediately. We completed some key projects together and importantly had a good laugh along the way, we had also become good friends.”

Ian will be greatly missed by us all at Clifford Devlin and once again send our heartfelt condolences to his family.

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2023 Roundup A Year of Dynamic Engagement and Heartfelt Tributes

By Craig Evans, Chief Operating Officer, UKATA

Craig Evans

The year 2023 has been a significant one for the UK Asbestos Training Association (UKATA), filled with collaborative efforts, educational advancements, and moments of solemn remembrance. As we look back, we find a tapestry of events and initiatives that have not only reinforced our commitment to asbestos safety and education but also allowed us to honour inspiring individuals who have left an indelible mark on our community.

Notable Events and Engagements European Asbestos Forum (EAF) Conference Highlights A defining moment for UKATA this year was our active participation in the EAF Conference in Brussels on 1st December. I, alongside colleagues Sasha Brailsford and Adam Harding, had the honour of representing our association at this prestigious gathering. The conference, a hub for eminent speakers and leaders in the asbestos sector, provided a phenomenal networking platform. We extend our gratitude to mr. dr. Yvonne Waterman for hosting this insightful event, and a special acknowledgment to Adam Harding, who chaired the afternoon sessions with expertise.

Continued Presence in Key Industry Events Throughout the year, UKATA maintained a strong presence in various industry events. Our participation in the Health & Safety Event and Highways UK Exhibition underscored our commitment to spreading awareness and educating about the legal and practical aspects of asbestos management. These events offered us a stage to advocate for the highest standards in safety and training within the asbestos sector.

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Strengthening Collaborations and Community Involvement Partnerships That Made a Difference 2023 saw UKATA forging new partnerships and strengthening existing ones. Our collaboration with Construction Insure was a strategic move to provide our members with tailored insurance advice. Joining forces with The Confederation of Roofing Contractors and The British Society of Soil Science enabled us to reach a broader audience, emphasising the importance of asbestos awareness in various sectors.

The UKATA Excellence Awards: A Celebration of Industry Achievements The UKATA Excellence Awards was a significant event, showcasing the best in the industry and raising funds for charitable causes. The awards night, filled with accolades and recognition, reflected our commitment to acknowledging outstanding service and innovation in the asbestos industry.

Moving Forward: A Renewed Dedication to Our Mission As we close the chapter on 2023, the experiences and insights garnered from this year will significantly influence UKATA's approach and initiatives moving forward. We are inspired by the collective achievements and are more determined than ever to lead with innovation, dedication, and a deep commitment to quality and safety in the asbestos industry.

In summary, 2023 has been a year of impactful engagements, strategic growth, and profound reflection for UKATA. We look forward to building on this foundation, striving for excellence in all our endeavors, and continuing to make a positive impact in the asbestos community.

Finally, I would like to thank all UKATA members, industry associates, and corporate partners for their continued support throughout the year and wish all Asbestos Hub readers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Remembering Mavis Nye, a Mesothelioma Warrior I've had the privilege of meeting and spending time with Mavis on numerous occasions. Each encounter was a testament to her strength, dedication, and compassion. Despite her battle, Mavis always greeted the world with an infectious smile, a symbol of her indomitable spirit and positivity.

Her tireless efforts in raising awareness about mesothelioma have left an indelible mark on our community and beyond. Mavis's legacy is immense, and her spirit will continue to inspire us. Her years of living with mesothelioma showcased her extraordinary resilience and commitment to the cause. Now, she is at rest, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to guide and inspire future generations.

Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Ray, her beloved family, and friends during this difficult time. Mavis, with her ever-present smile and undying spirit, will be profoundly missed, but her impact and legacy will forever be a part of us.

Rest in peace, Mavis. Your fight, spirit, and smile will never be forgotten.

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UKATA team up with international organisation UKATA is excited to announce a new partnership with The British Society of Soil Science (BSSS), a distinguished international membership organisation and charity founded in 1947. BSSS is dedicated to the study of soil in its broadest aspects, uniting those in academia, industry practitioners, and soil enthusiasts.

Soil research is vital across various sectors, including agriculture, construction, conservation, and archaeology, and it plays a crucial role in addressing global challenges like climate change. BSSS members span a diverse range of institutions, from universities to construction companies and environmental consultancies.

"We are delighted to welcome UKATA as a new corporate partner. At BSSS, part of our strategy is to educate and inspire the next generation of soil scientists through knowledge exchange and engagement. This partnership is an excellent way to promote the importance of soil within the asbestos industry and enhance professional development through members’ knowledge and skills to handle asbestos-related risks effectively."

Natalie Coles, BSSS Operations and Business Development Manager.

The recent £60m fund announced by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities for regenerating brownfield sites highlights the need for specialised training. Personnel involved in these projects require comprehensive understanding of asbestos in soils, relevant regulations, and broader health and safety legislation.

BSSS emphasises the importance of education and high standards in professional soil science practice. It offers 'Working with Soils' training courses and endorses other robust courses in the field.

UKATA contributes to this educational effort with two major courses: ‘Asbestos Awareness in Soil and Made Ground’ and ‘Management of Asbestos in Soil and Made Ground’. These courses are crucial for professionals working on brownfield site developments, addressing the housing crisis.

For more information on the training provided by both UKATA and BSSS, visit their respective websites.

“It has been a pleasure to work alongside Natalie Coles, BSSS Operations & Business Development Manager to forge this agreement, allowing us to collaborate with an organisation committed to the study of soils. Following our first meeting at The Contamination Expo earlier this year, we knew we could form a mutually beneficial collaboration, and I look forward to seeing how our partnership evolves.”

Debbie Nixon, UKATA Senior Operations Manager UKATA extends an exclusive invitation for corporate partnership to entities that share its vision and values in the asbestos industry. These partnerships offer a platform to demonstrate commitment to training and industry advancements.

Interested parties are encouraged to explore partnership opportunities with UKATA by calling 01246 824437 or by visiting www.ukata.org.uk/corporate-partners/

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New UKATA directors elected UKATA is thrilled to announce the recent appointments of Ali Rees (Evans) from Caerphilly County Borough Council and Chris Ivey from The Health and Safety People Ltd to its Board of Directors.

The Board of Directors at UKATA, comprising elected members from the association, plays a pivotal role in setting strategic direction and overseeing governance. Directors are tasked with understanding the operational environment of the association and leading it towards achieving its goals with available resources.

Ali Rees (Evans), with over two decades as a learning and development professional, brings a wealth of experience in effective training delivery. Her work in the local authority includes delivering asbestos training and managing resources for a significant portfolio of premises and housing stock. Ali's commitment to safety is deeply personal, stemming from the loss of a family member and a colleague to mesothelioma, a disease that affects more than 2,200 people annually in the UK. As a director, Ali's expertise in business, HR, and organisational development will be invaluable in advancing UKATA's mission as a leading trade association.

Ali Rees (Evans), Newly Appointed UKATA Director and Principal Health and Safety Training Officer for Caerphilly County Borough Council

Ali commented, “I’d like to thank UKATA for giving me this opportunity. I am very much looking forward to working with them in our collective aim of ensuring effective management of asbestos in the UK through positive training solutions.“

Joining her on the board is Chris Ivey, a seasoned professional in the training and asbestos industry. His journey began in 1999 with asbestos training, leading to an awareness of the omnipresence of asbestos in everyday life and its associated risks. Chris's career has been dedicated to raising awareness about asbestos, often responding to incidents involving disturbed asbestos-containing materials. At the helm of a team of 16 health and safety experts, Chris emphasises the equal importance of safety and health in the workplace. His commitment to enhancing training standards and his experience as a director at THSP, where he manages his schedule, enables him to fully dedicate his efforts to UKATA. Regarding his new role, Chris commented, "Joining the UKATA Board of Directors is an opportunity for me to give back to the industry. I am passionate about ensuring high-quality training standards and look forward to contributing to UKATA's efforts in this vital field."

Chris Ivey, Newly Appointed UKATA Director and Health and Safety Consultant Director for The Health & Safety People Ltd

Craig Evans, UKATA Chief Operating Officer, expressed his enthusiasm for both appointments. "Having Ali and Chris on board strengthens our directorial team immensely. Their combined expertise and dedication to asbestos safety and training are pivotal for our ongoing efforts in the industry," said Craig.

Both Ali and Chris are looking forward to contributing positively to UKATA's mission of ensuring the highest standards in asbestos training.

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UKATA partners with SHW Live

UKATA returns as Event Partner to Safety, Health & Wellbeing Live (SHW) North 23 – 24 January 2024, Manchester Central.

Located in the heart of the city, Manchester Central is a world-class events venue within easy reach for thousands of occupational health & safety professionals travelling from anywhere across the North of England.

SHW Live aims to champion excellence in workplace safety and occupational health as well as inspiring improved standards in mental health and wellbeing. Following successful attendance at SHW Live North & South in 2023, UKATA will return in 2024 to raise asbestos awareness to OSH professionals throughout the UK. SHW Live will see over 4,000 attendees, 200+ exhibitors and 100+ speakers, and include a series of carefully curated panel debates, dedicated to providing content tailored to the core of the market and responding to the day to day needs of the OSH professional.

The packed agenda complements numerous networking opportunities for professionals and exhibitors in a relaxed, enjoyable, and friendly environment. At the close of the first day of each event, SHW Live also hosts a free networking drinks reception open to all visitors and exhibitors alike in partnership with IOSH local branches.

Commenting on the partnership, UKATA’s Events & Marketing Manager, Victoria Castelluccio said “I am proud to be invited to join forces with SHW Live again in 2024, following a successful partnership in 2023. The UKATA team look forward to raising asbestos awareness, promoting UKATA membership and associate opportunities alongside attending CPD accredited content available in the two theatres.”

SHW Live is brought to you by the team at What Else Events with over 20 years’ experience in delivering the highest quality exhibitions and conferences for safety & health professionals. What Else Events is also supported in delivering SHW Live by an experienced Advisory Council including 20 of the UK’s most influential voices in occupational safety & health.

UKATA will showcasing its services on stand 47, where delegates can meet representatives from the association, to include Director Chris Ivey and Chief Operating Officer, Craig Evans.

VISIT UKATA ON STAND 47

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The world comes together at the European Asbestos Forum Conference 2023

by Ben Chambers I was proud to be in attendance at my second and the sixth annual European Asbestos Forum Conference held in Brussels over the end of November and entering December.

Attending whilst enduring a bug that had slowed me down somewhat on my normal PRman persona, the energy and enthusiasm as over two days I was injected with a dose of information, opinion and conversation that was just the tonic.

Held this year (and rightfully back there next year) in Brussels, in the centre of the beautiful Belgian capital, in the middle of a makeshift traditional European Christmas market and flakes of snow the international global asbestos community came together.

The event a offered a unique excursion, workshops and stunning exhibitions, but most importantly was a high calibre of speaker and the tremendous networking opportunities.

In this review, we have comment from the Founder Dr Yvonne Waterman as well as a few delegates, speakers and contributors who I have asked to contribute their experiences to the article.

But it doesn’t end there.

After a wonderful programme experienced by all and a plethora of top speakers from around the world, we are not going to limit our coverage of the EAF Conference to just this issue, we are going to continue to showcase the event over the next few issues in 2024 with even more of those that were involved.

About the European Asbestos Forum foundation The foundation strives to improve professional networks and the exchange of the state-of-the-art knowledge on all matters related to asbestos, across borders and sectors, available to everyone, sharing the latest innovations, the newest science, social insights and data, the best practices and the newest campaigns. Stay on top with one event in the year!

While the EAF is mainly focused on professionals, asbestos victims (organisations) are warmly welcomed, too. It is up to the professionals of today to ensure that there will be no more future asbestos victims, because asbestos diseases are preventable.

The foundation was founded in 2014 by Dr Yvonne Waterman MFAAM, who serves as its President and is proud to have a Board of Advisors of globally

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highly regarded asbestos specialists. I am unaware of the actual headcount, but prior to the event we were told there were due to be visitors from 27 countries, with some interaction from the Dutch state, which had sent out invitations to World Health Organization member states.

Our Dutch organiser and host Dr Waterman warned us that delegates from all countries were the guests of the Dutch State and as such should be received courteously. Of course we want these countries to join us in the pursuit of a global asbestos ban and for that, we needed to smile, persuade them and get them on our side.

So this conference would not be preaching to the choir for once and I reckon that’s a good thing, it starts to get things moving. But we wouldn’t be accepting any nonsense about asbestos not being harmful either; so I suggest that all of you have a polite, pithy and succinct statement to that effect ready, just in case. www.europeanasbestosforum.org

Asbestos Hub is pleased to be the media partner of the European Asbestos Forum

European Asbestos Forum

The 6th European Asbestos Forum conference: a seminal event

by Dr Yvonne Waterman LLM MFAAM

Looking back on this conference, which took place at the Marriott Grand Place Hotel in Brussels on 30 November and 1 December 2023, I’m mostly surprised by one thing: how fast time has flown since then.

But the very short version is: it was a great success.

Starting in 2015 with about eighty visitors from eight countries, it has now progressed to some 160 persons from 28 countries, varying from Colombia to Finland and from Montenegro to Australia.

At the invitation of the Dutch State, which had asked to co-host, even a Russian representative had registered, though he did not show up. Several official representatives of non-asbestos ban countries also attended, which I personally

found very heartening: we have to embrace them in order to help them achieve national asbestos bans as well.

Day One: the excursion Traditionally to the EAF conferences, it started off with the fun part and a touch of asbestos related seriousness: an excursion by coach to the wonderful Museum of Natural Sciences. Amidst the beauty of mineral samples (obviously lots of asbestos and asbestiform ones as well) and gigantic dinosaur skeletons, we were treated to an outstanding presentation on asbestos by the eminent American laboratory scientist, geologist, and mineralogist Sean Fitzgerald

(FACTS). Hearing him explaining many of its interesting facets so clearly to a very broad audience was an absolute treat.

We returned to the hotel to hear two very powerful speakers: European Parliamentarian Nikolaj Villumsen and Joris Gribnau of SGI Compliance. Nikolaj, who was the driving force behind the new EU Asbestos at Work Directive, spoke passionately about the need to protect the workforce from asbestos. With the need to renovate millions of old buildings across the EU (the Green Deal policy), it is imperative that the builders and asbestos removers are better protected against asbestos. Let’s not forget that over 80% of all occupational cancers are caused by asbestos. Remove the asbestos and one removes these unnecessary deaths as well.

Hence the reason why the directive has lowered the OEL by a factor of ten, though it is worthy to note that the global scientists actually recommended a factor of 100.

Nikolaj made a very good point: the new directive is also relevant to non-EU countries for the simple reason that it shows the state of the art in asbestos legislation.

If EU countries can improve the protection of their workforce, then clearly there is an example, even a duty, for non-EU legislators to keep up. Joris spoke of his Dutch Asbestos Museum (the site of last year’s EAF excursion) and the scientific need to collect and study museum asbestos artefacts, which is greatly hindered by the REACH prohibition to sell or even gift such items.

After an excellent lunch, we continued on to the afternoon session of the day, entitled Asbestos and Dealing with Disasters. The session consisted

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of round table debates, each table being given a specific topic such as Aftermath, Policy, Awareness etc., with intermittent presentations and interviews, providing an overview from different perspectives.

Professor Arthur Frank, one of the EAF’s advisors, explained by video on the environmental hazards from past use of asbestos, impressing the need to remove it from society. This video will be made available soon on the EAF YouTube channel. Dutch communication specialist Frank Peters (Virtus Communications) spoke on the importance of good communication during an asbestos calamity, while Sean Fitzgerald focused on the long-term effects of asbestos calamities, recalling the effectively still ongoing disaster of the Twin Towers. After a break with fresh waffles and a choice of fruits and chocolate sauce made on the spot, we learned from

Federica Paglietti (INAIL) about proper management of asbestos containing materials after a calamitous event. Two participants shared their experiences at the tables on dealing with asbestos after a terrorist attack and how to prepare others on such events – we will likely hear more of them next year. All in all, much food for thought and an excellent afternoon of sharing knowledge and experience.

For the speakers, sponsors and special guests, a tasty buffet awaited in the evening, after which many still had the energy to visit the many bars and Christmas markets stands in the historical city centre, as well as the fantastic light show in the Grand Market square.

Day Two: the classic conference Starting with warm words of welcome by myself and Kees Hoppener (Dutch Ministry

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of Infrastructure and Water Management), we soon touched on a very special moment: the remembrance of the late and much loved Mavis Nye. A touching tribute showed her in good times, presenting at one of the early EAF conferences and encouraging people to “throw the doors of the conference wide open” and bring awareness to everyone. The contrast with the next short video, of Mavis in her bed, still asking for just that one thing: raising awareness, was profound and very moving. During a minute’s clapping in appreciation of all Mavis had done for the asbestos cause, many a tear fell – and I’m not ashamed to admit there were some of mine there, too. The portrait of Mavis and Ray was on show on the podium the entire day. It can now be visited at the Asbestos Museum in Rotterdam.

Next, Flemish Minister Zuhal Demir gave the Opening Speech on her policy to lead Flanders into an asbestos safe future. It is becoming clear that, the more we learn about the economic cost of asbestos deaths, impairments to buildings and environmental damage, the more solid sense it makes to invest tax money into saving lives by creating a healthier, cleaner environment. She received the EAF Award for showing global leadership in her groundbreaking asbestos policy.

A second video by professor Arthur Frank, on the dangers on ingesting asbestos (for instance through asbestos water pipes) went sadly awry, but this too will be freely accessible on the EAF Youtube Channel soon.

American asbestos survivor and true Mesothelioma Warrior Heather Von St James gave a moving presentation on how she was diagnosed with her disease

only a few months after giving birth to her first child, eighteen years ago now. She received a standing ovation. Helen Bone, formerly a nurse who took care of mesothelioma patients, spoke later in the day of her own way of dealing with mesothelioma – very courageously and selflessly, impressing on all of us that asbestos cancers can hit anyone.

NB: both Heather and Helen were not occupationally exposed to the best of their knowledge, both were diagnosed in their thirties. The time that asbestos cancer could once be considered an old man’s disease is long gone… Where could they have been exposed at what must have been a very young age indeed?

Professor Jukka Takala, the previous President of the International Commission on Occupational Health, gave a fascinating presentation on the effects of asbestos in Sweden, which, despite an early asbestos ban, still shows an increase in asbestos deaths. He considered how this is probably caused by the presence of asbestos still being all around us.

Dragoş Pîslaru (MEP and Chair of the EU Committee on Employment & Social Affairs) spoke impressively on the necessity of a new and better Asbestos at Work Directive, while Gordana Materljan, jurist to the European Commission and co-writer for the directive’s outlines, gave the keynote speech, explaining in detail about many aspects. It’s probably fair to say that, for those who were interested in hearing about this important legislation, it really was an excellent day.

During the lunch break, there was ample opportunity to visit many stands, such as UKATA’s, Eurofins’, Casella’s, Fiberbinder’s and many others, as well as to

enjoy the exhibitions by the Asbestos Museum and Tony Rich (globally known as ‘Asbestorama’).

In the afternoon, the big ballroom was divided into two rooms; with the Session A for Asbestos and its Impact on Society being presided over

by Adam Harding, while Nick Garland as customary took care of the simultaneous Session B for Asbestos and Professional Perspectives. Both kept excellent timing, an underappreciated job that can be quite difficult, with so many speakers to deal with.

Now here it becomes a bit tricky for me, because owing to the duties of the conference organiser, I missed out (as always) on many afternoon presentations. But I will try to do right by all of them.

Session A got off to a great start with the presentation by professor Kevin Bampton (BOHS/FAAM), who discussed the difficulties of the UK asbestos legislation in the wake of Brexit. Professor Steven Kao, all the

way from Sydney, explained about improved treatment options for mesothelioma. Professor Manuel Saba, from Colombia, talked about the challenges of dealing with asbestos in a country with a very recent asbestos ban; and the efforts to map asbestos roofs efficiently with AI. Sadly, Jorge E Sirgo’s (Gnarus Advisors) video – he was prohibited from flying for unexpected personal reasons – didn’t fly either; and we may expect a very interesting presentation on America’s statistical developments regarding asbestos cancers next year, and what the insights derived thereby may mean for the future of comparable countries.

The American lawyers Michael Armitage and Charles Siegel of WatersKrausPaul were delighted to explain about the surprisingly many possibilities for nonAmerican asbestos victims to litigate in American courts.

Harry Vonk (BME Opleidingen)

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spoke of the Dutch Asbestos Museum, which he owns jointly with Joris Gribnau, and the importance of teaching about recognising asbestos both on a societal level and for asbestos professionals. This is much hindered by the present REACH legislation, which presently prohibits selling asbestos artefacts without any regard for scientific or

educational purposes.

Kim Brislane of the Asbestos Dust and Diseases Research Institute came all the way from Australia to speak on a topic very dear to the EAF foundation’s little heart: the importance and urgency of global collaborations. Indeed, the EAF banner that was given pride of place on the podium read: Collaboration, Acceleration,

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Eradication. This message, that the EAF foundation has been trying to promote since its inception in 2014, was warmly embraced by the audience – it’s starting to make a lot of sense to many now.

Meanwhile, in Session B, Nick Garland also presided over eight speakers. Sean Fitzgerald (FACTS) spoke of the important problem of defining asbestos properly and how important this is. With six “official” kinds of asbestos and over two hundred asbestiform fibres, all of which can be fatal too, and every science having its own definition of asbestos, what are we really talking about? A unified definition would be very helpful and leave less room for (presently considerable) legal loopholes.

Thomas Muller (Eurofins) showed the importance of using AI to improve ergonomics in the laboratory, thereby also speeding up the workload: a double bonus.

Certainly, as the new EU Asbestos at Work Directive will send ever more work towards laboratories, having an approach that is both healthy and fast will become increasingly relevant for good employers.

Wayne Bagnall of Wayne Bagnall Consulting (left) gave an insightful presentation on asbestos spacers in reinforced concrete, an asbestos application that appears to have been much overlooked. He also was the ‘Plan B’ speaker who replaced a very special guest of the foundation, who would have spoken on the dangers of removing asbestos in the Middle East under war conditions. Sadly, this speaker (who preferred to remain anonymous) was called to the hospital that very morning as his two children had become injured in a serious road accident. Perhaps we will meet him next year.

Two Belgians followed: Stefan

Kempeneers (Interleuven) presented on the innovative way to inspect asbestos roofs with AI in a collaboration with local governance, while one of the EAF’s most frequent speakers, Sven de Mulder (OVAM), provided us with an update on the consistent advances made in executing the Flanders asbestos policy, as developed by his Minister Zuhal Demir.

Graham Gould (Thermal Recycling) and Inez Postema (Asbeter Holding) finished Session B by discussing the need for safely denaturing asbestos as an alternative for bringing it to landfill.

Many of you will know that the EAF foundation has an early and very serious interest in anything that is happening globally in the denaturation field. Landfilling is just removing asbestos from A to B, it’s really kicking the carcinogenic can down the road for future generations to deal with. Graham pointed out that action is needed now: once too much asbestos has been brought to landfill, there will be no economic value in treating whatever is left by denaturation. Inez showed building designs for her denaturation plant in the Netherlands, which she optimistically hopes to start building soon. As visitors to last year’s EAF conference and excursion will know, her method is based on using warm water to denature asbestos.

After another round of enjoying Belgian waffles and an interesting debate between the speakers of both days and the audience, the time had come for one of the traditional highlights of the EAF conference: awarding someone for an exceptional effort and true dedication in the asbestos sector. Fabulous persons such as professor Arthur Frank, professor

Nico van Zandwijk and Mavis Nye have received this award. This time, it was a wonderful pleasure to present it to someone who also is so deserving of this honour: asbestos photographer Tony Rich, who shares his fantastic asbestos photos with the world. Many of you will know favourite photos of asbestos and recognise them in an instant: they are Tony’s work.

Last but not least, I announced, together with French Eurofins director Pierre Proietti: the Eurofins and EAF Asbestography Contest, of which I will write more in the next edition of Asbestos Hub. Essentially, we want to encourage you to send in asbestos related photos, so they can become part of a free asbestos image databank.

Next year’s EAF conference will also be held in Brussels and it will be combined with a Global Asbestos Awareness Raising Demonstration march. This will really cost the little EAF foundation a lot of time and effort on top of its regularly participation in so many asbestos projects and conferences everywhere, throughout the year. Therefore I

must finish with an urgent request that is perhaps appropriate to the time of year. If you wish to support the EAF foundation – and it could really do with your help – then please consider giving a donation, organising a fundraiser, etc. You can find more information about this at www.europeanasbestosforum.org/ sponsoring-2.

For those of you who have, unfortunately, missed out on this year’s groundbreaking conference: all is not lost, there is an aftermovie! It’s on the EAF’s Youtube Channel, see www.youtube.com/ watch?v=V6AbLdmPgMM. Chances are that there will be more interesting videos placed there soon, so you would be well advised to keep an eye on the website.

All that remains is to thank Asbestos Hub for being an excellent media partner to the EAF foundation and to wish all of you, dear readers, a very merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year. See you next year in Brussels – I will share the dates as soon as I know them – and be sure to bring your banners with you!

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Asbestos, the sharp end

by Nick Garland, Founder of Assure360 Many readers will know that the sixth European Asbestos Forum (EAF) conference took place recently in Brussels. Founder and president Dr Yvonne Waterman really pulled out all the stops for this occasion, making it the best EAF yet.

The morning session was devoted mostly to the EU’s newly adopted Asbestos at Work Directive. For those of you that have missed what all the fuss is about, there are some pretty huge changes: • Prioritising removal over encapsulation • Electron microscopy only • A new occupational exposure Limit (OEL), equivalent to our Control Limit, of 0.01 asbestos fibres per millilitre of air (f/ml) European Union member states have two years to implement these new rules, but there are bigger changes down the line. In six years’ time, analysts need to start counting fibres as narrow as 0.2 microns (two ten thousandths of a millimetre).

That’s much too fine for optical microscopes, or even most scanning electron microscopes (SEMs), and thus beyond the effective limit of today’s widely used techniques.

The directive allows for an

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alternative: don’t count these super fine fibres, but drop the OEL even further to 0.002f/ml. What this essentially means is that if you want to continue to operate at 0.01f/ml - transition electron microscopes (TEM) are really your only answer.

of contaminated water.

Easy Gel seemed like it could be much simpler, with very few ‘moving parts’. If its barrier approach worked, it could fall into that sweet spot that the original wrap-and-cut method occupied – safer, quicker and cheaper.

Gel cutting – a new removal technique

A practical test In spring, BOHS and FAAM designed a rigorous experiment to examine the hypothesis that the use of a barrier gel would be enough to suppress fibre release.

With the help of Ben Ives of Horizon Environmental, we first tested the traditional wrap and cut method. Three cuts were made, which took 57 minutes. The air test results were an impressive 0.02f/ml.

Our results confirmed that the key quality of the gel-cut method was the formation of a physical barrier, which prevented fibre release. You can see this in this still frame, which shows the extent of (imperfect) wetting from the gel. If we were relying solely on the gel’s wetting properties, we would have seen very high fibre release indeed.

It’s been a year of change for the industry, and much of it has its starting point in Europe now.

At EAF 2022 I saw an intriguing innovation. BCL Invent’s Easy Gel are a range of gel-filled, shaped plastic pouches. The application that sparked my imagination was cutting cement pipes, where the pouch is secured to the pipe before being cut through.

Rather than just suppressing the dust, the gel remained on the surface, forming a barrier separating workers from activity.

I, however made the intuitive leap – would this work for asbestos lagging?

Wrap and cut Of course, there’s already wrap and cut, a similar approach in which we clean a short section of pipe insulation so that whole lengths of still-lagged pipes can be cut out and disposed of as waste.

Wrap and cut is safer than cleaning the whole pipe, as there’s less asbestos disturbance. As a bonus, it’s also quicker and cheaper. But those who’ve used the method know it has downsides – in particular vibration and noise.

Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) is particularly challenging.

A reciprocating saw is so vibrating that the normal limit per person per day is just 15 minutes.

There are also several points in the procedure where we expect the worker to stop, check and repeat. Operatives tend to overinject water, reducing the chance of finding dry patches – but dramatically increasing the spread

Five horizontal cuts made using the Easy Gel method took just 45-minutes, and the results averaged out at a similar 0.03f/ml.

Lessons learned But HAVS remains a problem.

With a quicker process, workers could make more cuts in a shift, increasing their exposure to harmful vibration. In addition, the cutting technique required the user to keep the foot plate away from the gel pack to avoid crushing it.

This in turn leads to less control and more vibration.

Conclusions We observed comparable air test results. As wrap and cut resulted in an excess of injection liquid leaking out, gel cutting gave a higher degree of control – there was virtually no spread of contaminated gel.

The gel cut process is much quicker. If 12 horizontal cuts were to be made using the traditional method this would take approximately four hours.

Using gel cutting would take approximately half this (meaning the exposure in the subsequent two hours would be zero).

Therefore, whilst the test results are comparable, a total exposure or four-hour time-weighted average (4hrTWA) calculation would be approximately 50% of the wrap and cut equivalent.

This increased efficiency could lead to shorter project duration – which would be commercially attractive to clients and licensed asbestos removal contractors (LARCs). However, due to the commercially attractive nature of the method, the increased vibration and reduced control must be countered before the procedure is adopted. The following currently available solutions should be considered: • Low vibration (pneumatic) reciprocating saws to reduce HAVS exposure • On-wrist measurement of HAVS exposure • Chain clamps to impose a straight line cut All of these are available, but it seems the last is the most interesting as it would remove all exposure to vibration.

This project shows what a fully functioning, joined-up industry can achieve. The hazard creators must act as innovators, but FAAM can provide the structure, independence and academic rigour to prove a method can work.

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Overhauling the four-stage clearance Another piece of research that FAAM undertook has already started to lead to change. The very first four-stage clearance (4SC) workshop looked at how supervisors conduct visual inspections of enclosures, and how analysts and supervisors work together. The event produced a trove of information, not least that supervisors are not trained at all in this key area, aren’t issued appropriate torches to do the work, and – amazingly – that the HSE doesn’t enquire about it at licence assessment.

As I say, it has already started to lead to change. The next Asbestos Network guidance will be on this very subject, and I am helping Rob Southall of ATaC make sure it includes all of the learning points.

After the guidance, the next step will be training courses from all of the providers – BOHS, ARCA, ACAD, ACTA, IATP and UKATA. The next FAAM workshop, sometime in the new year, will examine what the best training course would look like.

A short plug for the Assure360 Paperless app, which has already been overhauled, streamlining the whole process of recording the 4SC. Now the supervisor can easily record the result – and if it fails, at what stage and why. This crucial data is now available to LARC management so they can analyse, identify trends and implement improvements.

Crunching the numbers Whilst this is fairly routine data, it is incredibly laborious to collect by any other means than Assure360.

But we can go even further in getting to underlying trends – by cross-referencing them with other data. Examples of where we can do this include: • People – the system knows which individuals are working on a project, and whether they’re full-time employed or

•

•

• •

short-term workers (STW). It also knows how experienced they are, Distance – again the system knows where the project is, so analysis could reveal whether distance from home base has an impact, Anticipated duration of work in the enclosure – this will let us examine large projects down to micro ones and compare the plan with how long it really took, What were you removing? – the type of ACM, fixing and the task could all have an impact, Management influence – everything can obviously be cross-referenced against the supervisor and the contracts manager.

Like everything we do at Assure360, the number crunching will all be done in the background and the insight presented to you in handy and easy to use reports. There’ll be absolutely no additional effort needed on your part.

A webinar on the new exposure guidance The Asbestos Network (AN)’s personal sampling and exposure guidance was published in August.

Both ARCA and ACAD have spent a good percentage of their recent regionals taking members through the details – of which there are lots.

This guidance covers a very important topic that as an industry we have struggled with, and it’s been worth the wait. It’s a fairly weighty 21-page document. Overall, it’s very much aimed at the licensed contractor – i.e. the sharp end – but it’ll be useful to analysts and endclients too.

This is the first official guidance the AN (and therefore the Health and Safety Executive) has provided to licence contractors on the subject. And there are some major departures from how contractors traditionally approach it.

That’s why I’m hosting a webinar

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to talk in detail about the changes that the guidance demands. I’ll be exploring practical steps on how to implement them, and demonstrating how you can use Assure360 to achieve full compliance – at the same time as saving hours of work for both your supervisors and admin team.

So whether you’re an Assure360 customer or not, please join me on 16 January 2024 at 10am. To book your place, please just fill in the details below. We hope to see you there.

Back to the EAF conference I had the honour of hosting one of EAF’s afternoon sessions, where we examined innovation. These afternoon sessions can be pretty whirlwind affairs, and the ideas and discussions came thick and fast.

While it was a frenetic day, full of ideas and innovation, two really stood out for me. Thomas Muller gave a review of the lab group Eurofin’s project to harness robotics and AI. The way it’s being used to address ergonomic hazards for its analysts, at the same time as reducing the time spent by 70%, is impressive. The timing of this work is ideal: we need to massively increase the productivity of TEM analysis to implement the new directive.

The second was actually raised in the morning – Frederica Paglietti, senior researcher at Italy’s National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work (INAIL), was able to give us hints about a prototype new style of respirator that will rise to the challenge of the new lower OEL. To return to the EU’s new directive, we in the UK could of

course ignore it. But we would do so at our peril.

I recall going to my first EAF in 2015. Back then there was a feeling that the UK was pretty good at managing asbestos and that we could in fact teach our fellow Europeans a thing or two. Over the years, though, it has become increasingly obvious to me that we’ve been static and have become complacent.

The approach in many EU countries is already outstripping us. I can point to recent European innovations including a fully automated robotic disassembly plant for asbestos-contaminated train rolling stock, AI-driven TEMs that are three times faster than the manual equivalent, gel technology to capture asbestos dust at source, and the brand-new respiratory protective equipment concept – rather than the converted WW2

gas masks we essentially use.

Now we can even put a number on how far we risk falling behind. If we ignore the directive (or at least its intention), we would be offering our workers 50 times weaker protection.

In the past, when writing about the Asbestos at Work Directive, I’ve been sceptical as to whether it has been thought through sufficiently.

Particularly, I wondered whether the practicalities had been fully considered. Current removal methods are nothing like good enough to meet the new exposure limits. Current RPE doesn’t perform well enough, so essentially everything we do would have to change.

As I left EAF this year, I realised that it’s the way we think that needs to change. The new directive is the law that should make us reimagine everything.

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EAF 2023 – Brussels

by Kirsty Budenbender, Director of DSK Environmental

I was invited to attend the EAF conference this year and wow it was a big eye opener. A tremendous amount of talent throughout. The event was very well orchestrated with an abundance of knowledge from not only the speakers but industry professionals who were also in attendance. A great location and venue which was set out superbly from the start.

The event started with an excursion to Museum of Natural Science. I personally enjoyed viewing their fantastic geology collections, an array of colour and sparkle composing of asbestos formulations of course but beautiful none the less.

It was here that I met the great Tony Rich (the man behind the camera). Anyone in the industry will know of Tony and his absolutely amazing work, I first saw some of his work a few years ago and was completely astounded at how he captures the visual beauty of asbestos minerals – purely incredible along with the astonishingly terrible visuals of cigarette filters where chrysotile asbestos was encapsulated. I am a huge fan, even more so now I have

got to view a small proportion of his gallery and it was a privilege to meet both Tony and his lovely wife Nicky.

Sean Fitzgerald (FACTS) kicked off the speaker rotation with a great presentation on The science of asbestos, the good the bad and the ugly. I was absolutely in awe of his knowledge and expertise, outlining the educational aspects of the different mineral types that contribute to the formulation of the rock that essentially is asbestos.

He spoke of the deadly diseases caused by asbestos exposure and the importance of the awareness and the way forward. His talk was not only greatly informative but extremely thought provoking with references to world catastrophes where people were and are still being affected. Sean, you rock!

Wayne Bagnall MBE – fortunately I was seated next to the brilliant Wayne for the majority of the event.

I thoroughly enjoyed learning of his achievements (when of course I mentioned them as he’s a greatly modest man). His knowledge, wisdom and take on the industry was fantastic. Wayne’s presentation on the legacy of asbestos in concrete was outstanding. Viewing the statistics and case studies was

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shocking but also great as we have more awareness than we ever did before, which puts the world in a better position moving forward.

Helen Bone and Heather Von St James, it was great to see you both and hear your stories, which we have all come to know and appreciate. Thank you for waving the mesothelioma flag high, you are both inspirational powerful women and should be proud of setting a great example to meso warriors alike and those to come whom are not even aware yet.

Speaking for Mavis Nye she would be very proud of you both.

It was great to see friends from UKNAR, UKATA, Asbestos Hub and Meso UK, Thermal Recycling among many more.

There are far too many great people to mention as I would take up at least two pages but I want to thank all involved, the panel of speakers, the guests who I met so many of and had great conversations with, I have connected with a few but those who haven’t yet please do get in touch. The venue team – the food was lovely, though I didn’t get to try the cauliflower soup sadly.

Lastly but no means least, thank you to Yvonne, you looked after us all making sure our needs were met whilst running the event to a regimented timeframe – it was first class! Thank you for not only being president of a fantastic forum but for all your hard work and dedication to the asbestos industry which is exceptional. Bravo!

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Government rejects asbestos removal petition The government has rejected a petition from more than 10,000 people asking for the removal of asbestos over the next 40 years and an asbestos register.

Asbestos is a material which if inhaled can cause cancer and is the biggest cause of work-related deaths in the UK. The petition said “the most high-risk settings are schools and hospitals”.

In its response, the government said clear evidence was needed that the two recommendations would improve health outcomes.

Minimise risk The petition wanted the government to commit to two recommendations made by a 2022 work and pensions committee inquiry into the management of asbestos.

It said: “We do not know where all the asbestos is in the country so we need a central register, and we need to make a plan for its safe removal over the next 40 years.”

In its report, the work and pensions committee said the

government “must commit to a strategy to remove all asbestos from public and commercial buildings within 40 years”.

The report highlighted how despite being banned more than two decades ago, asbestos is the single greatest cause of workrelated fatalities in the UK. The committee also said that with asbestos still in around 300,000 non-domestic buildings and the likely disturbance from net zero retrofitting, “the reliance on the current asbestos regulations will not be good enough”.

The government said it “understands concerns about asbestos in buildings” and “will continue to consider how we can improve the system to minimise the risk of exposure to asbestos.”

But it added: “Great Britain has a mature and comprehensive plan to manage asbestos risk that aligns with the best evidence currently available.”

The government said that this was through the implementation of Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

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‘Not sustainable’ Work associated with removing asbestos can release asbestos fibres, increasing the risk of exposure, the government argues.

It says it would only “advocate more proactive removal of asbestos from buildings if there is compelling evidence that the increase in exposure for workers removing asbestos is justified in terms of reduced risk to building users”.

But it insists the evidence did not currently exist.

Liz Darlison, Chief Executive of Mesothelioma UK, the national asbestos-related charity which is running a campaign for asbestos removal, said: “Responses to the petition highlight the breadth of support for government intervention. Asbestos continues to kill thousands of people in the UK each year. There are measures that can be taken to address this and the public have spoken.

“The government MUST take action! There is cross party support for a national asbestos register and a phased removal, so they must make this a priority.”

The work and pensions committee said it was shortsighted to leave asbestos in place in buildings, even if they are wellprotected and in good condition.

Such buildings will not last forever and a “policy of waiting for materials containing asbestos to deteriorate before removing them is not sustainable in the long term”.

They add that a “central register of information on asbestos in buildings could help to shed light on the true level of compliance and could contribute to a more effective risk-based and targeted enforcement regime.”

The petition highlights that there is currently no cure for asbestos linked cancer mesothelioma, with up to 2,700 people still being diagnosed every year.

The Health and Safety Executive, which is an independent, evidencebased regulator, will review and consider any new evidence where it can help improve health outcomes.

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DSK are proud to support the Mavis Nye Foundation. Created to inspire victims of Mesothelioma, an Asbestos related terminal Cancer. The foundation also contributes to research and development into Mesothelioma and spreading more crucial awareness.

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Isn’t it time to stop worrying if contractors working in your buildings have read and understood your latest asbestos registers?

Our simple Asbestos SMART technology allows you to track that contractors working in your buildings have viewed your asbestos registers (in a simple and easily understandable format); giving you proof of compliance at your fingertips, and confidence

that they can work safely without disturbing any known asbestos.

We’d love to show you how our simple on-site solution can help you communicate vital information and manage your asbestos risks and contractors more effectively; irrespective of which asbestos

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consultants you currently use to conduct your asbestos surveys and re-inspections.

Asbestos SMART now has greatly improved functionality and a host of new features, including updatable digital asbestos registers, contractor usage tracking and the ability to link to your existing systems. It also allows you to store key documentation and easily share it with staff, tenants, and contractors.

Asbestos SMART starts at around £275 p.a. for a single property. Equivalent to just over £5 per week. Not a lot to pay for peace of mind that you are doing all that you can to help minimise asbestos risks in your properties.

(Multiple property portfolios benefit from economies of scale – POA.)

Asbestos SMART offers a wide range of benefits: • Provides unrestricted instant access to clear, easily readable asbestos registers for your contractors, staff, tenants, or visitors; simply by scanning a QR code.

• Registers can be broken down by property, floor or zone depending on the complexity of your building.

• Auditable trail of usage (QR-Code scans) – monitor and report on the date, time, IP address, name, and organisation of the user.

• Line of sight – View asbestos risks across your entire portfolio of properties, including number of registers, number of ACM’s, re-inspection renewal dates, etc.

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Easy to update registers – you or your consultants, can quickly and easily edit, amend, or update your asbestos registers, either manually or via CSV imports.

Documents or data from any or multiple consultancies or IT systems can be used. This remains your data, always accessible in the event of future change of provider.

Provides a great storage facility for all your compliance data, viewable either privately, or for contractors and staff to access by scanning a QR code.

Controlled document access–

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you can choose to password protect ‘other’ documents you wish to share.

Minimal training required – simple and intuitive system.

UKNAR will provide all requisite training needed to use the Asbestos SMART management system.

CSR/ESG – UKNAR CIC’s charity partner, Mesothelioma UK receive 5% of Asbestos SMART revenues annually to help them support their 2,700 mesothelioma patients.

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an option in my mind, so I asked what I could do. The doctor then laid out a couple of scenarios that could extend my life. I could opt to do chemo and radiation and hopefully live five years, or do a newer surgical procedure that was incredibly invasive, but could potentially get me 10 years of survival. The trouble with the surgery option was the best person to do it was across the country in Boston, Massachusetts, some 1,400 miles from my home in the suburbs of Minneapolis/ St Paul, Minnesota. Without batting an eye, my husband said: “Get us to Boston.“ Twelve days later, there we were, sitting in new patient orientation with three other mesothelioma patients, all hoping to learn if we were candidates for the procedure and I was by far, the youngest person in the room, by at least 30 years.

Those days are a blur.

I had test after test and at the end of the second day I was admitted for a surgical biopsy to confirm the diagnosis, because as Dr Sugarbaker said, I didn’t have mesothelioma until he determined I had mesothelioma.

We returned home to Minneapolis to wait for the news if I could have the surgery or not. Finally we got the call on 22 December. I was positive for malignant pleural mesothelioma, epithelial type and I was to return to Boston at the end of January, to have surgery on 2 February.

Christmas was memorable that year, but for all of the wrong reasons. Instead of celebrating my baby’s first Christmas, it was overshadowed with the fear and anxiety of what was coming up in the next couple of months.

On 30 January, my husband and I left for the airport with my mum and my now almost six-month-old baby, who was going to be under the care of my parents while I

“You have cancer”

Not the words a new mum of a threemonth-old baby wants to

by Heather Von St James hear. But there I was, sitting in a cramped exam room, my husband next to dangers, nor did they supply any me, being told I had cancer. What safety gear. That dust from all of the doctor said next will always those jobs was crusted on his work stick with me. He asked if my jacket, the same jacket I grabbed to dad had ever worked in mining do things outside, like rake leaves or construction. He went on to to jump in, feed my rabbits, or get tell me I had malignant pleural the mail. His car was also dusty as mesothelioma and it was caused a result, and I breathed in this dust by asbestos exposure. My father, daily, for several years. had in fact, worked with asbestos At that time, the pathologists products when I was a child. He was had never heard of someone my a construction worker who mixed age getting this disease, I was just the joint compound for drywall, 36 years old at the time and a and sanded it when it dried. He new mum. He then told me I had also did demolition, tearing apart just 15 months to live if I didn’t do older buildings for remodel, and anything. I sat quietly, letting the tearing insulation off boilers that words sink in, as I thought about were wrapped with asbestos. His our baby, and not being around to employer never warned them of the see them grow up. Dying was not

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fought for my life in Boston. As we parted ways in the airport, it was all I could do to keep from breaking down. I didn’t know if that would be the last time I saw my baby.

Bright and early on 2 February 2006, I was wheeled down to the pre-op area of the hospital to get prepped for one of the biggest and most dangerous surgeries there is.

An extrapleural pneumonectomy consists of the resection of the entire lung, the pleura, half of the diaphragm, the pericardium and a rib. During the surgery, Dr Sugarbaker pioneered a heated chemo wash, which is cisplatin heated to 60 degrees C then pumped into the chest cavity and washed around for an hour. They jokingly called it the shake and bake.

I was wheeled back at 7 am and I put all my trust in my doctors’ hands.

I woke up some 10 hours later with one lung and a gratitude that I was still alive.

I made it through and now the hard part started, the recovery. I ended up being in the hospital for 18 days due to complications from the chemo wash. My kidneys didn’t want to work. I was scheduled for dialysis the next morning if my creatinine levels kept rising. They did blood tests the next morning and my levels were normal. During the night, my kidneys woke up and started working. I was so happy I didn’t need dialysis. My kidneys started working too good and I needed potassium and magnesium supplements until I was good enough to be discharged.

During my stay, my surgeon would take me into other patients’ rooms to talk with them and their families. He saw in me something that I didn’t see myself. Helping others is just something I was a natural at. I had to stay two more weeks in Boston to make sure I was stable enough to return home.

Exactly one month after my surgery, I boarded a plane to return to my parents, where my now seven-month-old baby had been

living. My husband had to return to our home in Minnesota to go back to work, while I recovered at my parents’. There was no way I was able to care for my child on my own, so having their support meant everything.

As I recovered, I returned to Boston after a month to meet with the oncologist and radiologist to determine next steps. Thankfully, I was able to do that portion of my treatments at home in St Paul, MN. During those months, I talked to more patients and helped people through their own diagnosis, and before long, I had newspapers and reporters reaching out to me to get my story. Without really meaning to, an advocacy career was born. I started sharing my story of how asbestos exposure as a child had robbed me of the first year of my baby’s life, how I lost my lung, my career as a hair stylist and salon owner. How my entire world crumbled when I heard those words: “You have cancer.”

I’m proud to say I’m now 18 years post diagnosis and have no evidence of disease. That little baby, who I was determined to stick around for, turned 18, and is the joy of my life. My husband and I are going to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary in the spring, and he remains, to this day, my rock and most ardent supporter.

Advocacy and activism is what I’ve done with my life since that first day Dr Sugarbaker brought me in to talk to a fellow patient.

I write about my experience, volunteer for a mesothelioma nonprofit and sit on panels about survivorship and being a young cancer patient. I’ve been asked to be on a nationally syndicated TV show called A Matter of Fact, and was the face of a Greenpeace petition about stopping the loosening of environmental regulations around chemicals during the Trump presidency.

I’ve been a peer reviewer for the Congressionally Directed Medical

Review Panel for cancer research and have spoken at conferences around the country and most recently at the European Asbestos Forum in Brussels. It was an incredible experience to share my story of hope with representatives from 29 countries. I was incredibly grateful for the opportunity and hope to return next year as well.

I’m so very grateful for this life I’ve been given back, even with all of the ups and downs, I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Me and Baby Lucious post-surgery

One Lung!

Me and the late Dr Sugarbaker

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Asbestos cement products – a low risk material?

Asbestos cement – introduction Asbestos cement products have been widely used in the UK throughout the 1900s and can be found in commercial, industrial, agricultural and domestic properties. Cement products come in many forms including: roofing sheets, wall cladding, rainwater goods, cement flue pipes and soffits/fascia panels.

The use of asbestos in cement products was prohibited in the UK in 1999 but prior to that it is estimated that 6m tonnes of asbestos cement were used in the

UK over the previous 100 years making cement products the most commonly used asbestos containing material in the UK. Asbestos cement products will generally contain between 10%15% chrysotile (white) asbestos but have been found to contain well over 50%, particularly when weathered. Asbestos cement products that have been produced between 1945 and 1980 may also contain an amount of crocidolite (blue) and amosite (brown) asbestos fibres.

Asbestos cement – low risk?

If the asbestos cement is in good condition with the fibres firmly bound in the cement matrix it is unlikely that the asbestos fibres will become airborne and the product will present a low risk, however, the original design life of asbestos cement roofs is only between 25 and 40 years.

The use of asbestos cement was banned in the UK in 1999 and

many of the asbestos cement roofs are far in excess of 40 years old, in some cases 70 plus years old. Many of these roofs have degraded considerably so, is it time to review the way that asbestos cement products are risk scored and also focus on the contamination that these deteriorating products are causing to the wider environment?

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Asbestos cement in good condition is a relatively stable, hard material that typically contains 10-15% of asbestos.

Asbestos cement rainwater goods on a recent SOCOTEC UK Asbestos Management Survey.

Note the deterioration of the product and the raw asbestos fibre that has been left to the external wall of the building, following rainwater leaks from the gutter joint.

A close up of the raw fibre that now contaminates the external wall.

Other considerations Asbestos cement products especially roofing and rainwater goods are the ideal environment for moss, vegetation and lichens to grow.

When moss and lichens grow on cement sheeting their roots will penetrate beneath the upper layers of the cement and remove moisture. This plant growth will eventually cause an element of damage, erosion and weakness to the roof surface which in conjunction with weather conditions will eventually result in the damage of the cement product and moss/lichens being displaced onto the adjacent surfaces including roads, walkways, drains and grassed areas. These displaced plants will also include

the upper layers of the roof on which they were growing.

The plant growth activity causes the cement matrix, which is essential to bind and hold the asbestos fibres in place, to break down. The result of this growth breakdown is that the cement matrix is no longer present but instead the fibres, which were once held within it are now loosely adhered to the roots of the moss/lichens. When the moss/ lichens fall off the roofs this also leaves an unsealed surface with loose asbestos fibres, which can be easily displaced making the perceived low risk material now extremely friable. Eventually the moss or plant growth will compost leaving free fibre that mixes

with the general site dirt and soil, which can move around by wind, rainwater or be tracked on people’s shoes and vehicle tyres.

Asbestos cement roof with moss growth

Asbestos cement with heavy vegetation growth

Displaced moss with asbestos fibre attached to the root system

Regulation 16 - Duty to prevent or potential for asbestos fibres reduce the spread of asbestos to be airborne (internal and Every employer must prevent external) (Reg 11 & Reg 16), The Control of Asbestos or, where this is not reasonably • Asbestos cement life span – Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012) state practicable, reduce to the lowest consider how long the ACM as duty holders, building owners, level reasonably practicable the has been in place and that the landlords or occupants that the spread of asbestos from any place original expected life span of the risk from asbestos is managed where work under the employer’s material was 25-40 years, and that controls are in place to control is carried out.

• Consider controls for the site as manage the risk of exposure to appropriate such as maintenance asbestos fibres and prevent the The risk of asbestos cement regimes required for vegetation spread as detailed below: products needs to be considered control etc, thoroughly. As with other ACMs, the • Consider appropriate monitoring Regulation 4 – Duty to manage material should be risk assessed for higher risk asbestos cement asbestos in non-domestic and management controls put in products, premises place to reduce the potential for • Identifying primary source In order to manage the risk from exposure to these products. (roofs/rainwater goods etc) and asbestos… a suitable and sufficient secondary where the residue is assessment is carried out as to Factors to consider and assist the and where it may go, i.e. moss whether asbestos is, or is liable to Management of Asbestos Cement blowing around sites, drains be present... the condition of any Products: washing through interceptors asbestos which is, or has been • The greatest risk is contamination or off site and also back flush of assumed to be present in the and the spread and controlling drains during storm events, premises must be considered. the contamination from anyone • Information, instruction and who may be exposed: training for all contractors, Regulation 11 – Prevention or • Establish the extent of potential • Site operating procedures to reduction of exposure to asbestos contamination (Reg 16), take account of the asbestos Every employer must prevent • Establish whether there is situation, with regular updates, the exposure to asbestos of any the potential for individual • Adequacy and frequency of reemployee so far as is reasonably exposure (Reg 11), inspections, practicable.

• Establish whether there is the • Contaminated land.

What needs to be done?

36 | asbestos hub magazine

SOCOTEC reinforces position as leading player in the building and real estate market SOCOTEC UK, the market leader in testing, inspection and certification (TIC) in the construction and infrastructure sectors, has acquired Hutton + Rostron (H+R), renowned specialists in building pathology. This strategic move establishes SOCOTEC as the sole UK company offering end-to-end solutions for all building types, including commercial, residential, industrial and listed buildings.

The challenges faced by today’s complex construction and built environment, impacts on all types of buildings. Modern buildings pose environmental challenges during both construction and maintenance, while heritage buildings face unique hurdles due to accelerated climate change and material integration. Addressing these issues necessitates a comprehensive and scientific approach, especially in a rapidly changing world under climate stress.

Nicolas Detchepare, CEO of SOCOTEC UK, emphasised the significance of this acquisition: “H+R, Building Pathology experts, are a perfect addition to our existing building expertise, from building control to engineering. This acquisition not only solidifies our leading position in the building

and real estate market, spanning commercial and residential sectors, but also supports our expansion into the dispute and advisory market, offering expert witness services for various disputes. H+R, with their unique expertise, empower us to achieve our ambition of becoming the number one integrated player in the UK Built Environment market.”

James Hutton, Managing Director, H+R, said: “Buildings and the built environment are essential for the survival of individuals and cultures. The effective and efficient investigation and remediation of failures in buildings and the built environment is therefore also essential. This is a growing problem in a rapidly changing and increasingly complex world, especially under accelerated changes in the societies that occupy them, and under the stress of the climate crisis. Building

Pathology is a holistic subject for the investigation, diagnosis, prognosis and remediation of failures in buildings and the built environment; based on the understanding of buildings as complex systems evolving over time. H+R share this philosophy with SOCOTEC and together we will be able to meet this rapidly growing high value market for all our services.”

This acquisition reaffirms the leading position of SOCOTEC UK in the built environment, with a team of 500 building experts and expertise in building envelope, building control, fire engineering, sustainability, and structural engineering. With all these disciplines, the company is the only player able to take a holistic approach, setting new industry standards and meeting with new regulatory, health and safety and environmental requirements.

asbestos hub magazine | 37

Asbestos removal behind early Christmas closure at Welshpool High School A Powys high school is closing early for Christmas so work can go ahead to remove asbestos, it has been revealed Welshpool High School closed four days early for the Christmas holiday period this year. Lessons and “wellbeing activities” for the last four days of the autumn term, which finished on Thursday 21 December, were held online.

The announcement in November of the need to close the school came out of the blue.

Council and school statements at the time made no mention of asbestos as a reason for the closure, which they explain was needed so that “urgent works can be carried out to its heating system”.

The announcement angered many parents – as they would need to juggle work commitments around childcare arrangements for hundreds of pupils who will be taught from home.

The extra reason for the closure was made during a meeting of Powys County Council’s Learning and Skills scrutiny committee on Wednesday 13 December.

Members were discussing items on the council’s Strategic Risk Register relevant to education.

These risks revolve around the council’s ability to fund school maintenance and improvement works.

Conservative Councillor Lucy Roberts said: “I want to be confident that the risks to individual schools are being adequately addressed so we don’t find a lot of schools where their boilers are not working, and they have to close down for a period of time.”

“Pupils’ education can be put back by major works.”

Cabinet Member for Education, Liberal Democrat Councillor Pete Roberts said: “In respect of Welshpool, specific work has been identified with the boiler area relating not just to the boilers but removal of asbestos.

“That is being undertaken over the Christmas recess by specialist contractors while there are no pupils or teachers on the site.”

The Local Democracy Reporting Service had asked why the work had not taken place earlier in the year at a time that when inconvenience to parents and guardians could have been minimised.

A council spokesman said: “These are reactive works due to a water leak and not planned maintenance.

“The council’s advised the school leadership team that they required additional time to work in the boiler

38 | asbestos hub magazine

room.

“Works are programmed to be completed throughout the festive holiday period into the new year.”

They school is expected to “reopen as normal” after the Christmas holidays on 9 January.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral and was once widely used in construction as a fire retardant material and also used for insulation purposes.

In large and undamaged pieces asbestos is not considered harmful but when damaged it can release smaller fibres that can be breathed in or swallowed.

Exposure to asbestos in this way is known to cause several types of cancer with the most common being mesothelioma and lung cancer.

Importing, supplying and the use of all asbestos has been banned in the UK since 1999.

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Demolition of burned California hangar underway; asbestos levels ‘below any level of concern’ reach all areas of the hanger.

The trucks equipped with nozzles and hoses will be used for fire suppression and dust abatement throughout the process. The hangar doors and their supporting concrete pillars will be stabilised and left in place for the time being.

“Since monitoring began, all particulate matter from smoke and fire data at community sites are well below any level of concern,” the city said in a statement. “Asbestos sampling data received to date are also well below any levels of concern.”

Most schools in the area have The south side of a historic airship hangar in Tustin that burned down on 7 November been cleared for on-campus instruction attendance, but a The scorched remains of a World removed from their properties. few are still being inspected by War II airship hangar in Tustin, While the property is owned by asbestos consultants, the Tustin California are being razed as the US Navy, a mix of government Unified School District said on its air quality officials call nearby agencies have been involved in the website. asbestos levels “below any level firefight and aftermath, including Most public parks are open, of concern” while continuing to the Orange County Fire Authority but Centennial Park and Veterans urge neighbours to take safety and the South Coast Air Quality Sports Park remain closed until precautions.

Management District. further notice, parks officials said.

The enormous wooden military “Our biggest frustration overall The Orange County Healthcare relic went up in flames on 7 is that there’s just nobody in Agency recommends people who November, showering ash and charge,” said nearby resident Jeff believe their neighbourhood debris — later found to contain Lawrence. has been affected by fire debris asbestos — on nearby residential Deconstruction of the hangar take such precautions as keeping neighbourhoods. should be completed in the next doors and windows closed and The 17-storey hangar day or two, Tustin officials said. not running air conditioning smoldered for more than a week, Plans call for extinguishing all systems that draw in outside air. and residents have struggled to get remaining hotspots of the fire, Avoid activities that will displace information about the fallout on air using heavy equipment excavators debris related to the fire, such as quality and airborne contaminants, to remove debris and clearing sweeping, leaf blowing, mowing including when debris will be roadways so water trucks can and gardening.

40 | asbestos hub magazine

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Sussex Scouts warehouse set to be rebuilt due to asbestos concerns

A Scouts warehouse is set to be rebuilt due to asbestos and other concerns

According to plans submitted to Adur District Council, the existing Scouts Association warehouse, in Marlborough Road on the Lancing Business Park, would be demolished and rebuilt to consolidate business operations of the Scout Store, Scouts World Shop and Unity, the Scouts insurance

programme.

Agents acting on behalf of the Scouts said that the current warehouse, used to sort and export goods, had issues with storage and usability due to its size and layout, with the two current office blocks now obsolete.

They said mounting maintenance costs to sustain health and safety standards in the 1970s warehouse, and heavy asbestos contamination were factors in needing to redevelop the site.

The new facility would be approximately 100 square feet

smaller than the current one, but would see the existing offices and warehouse merged, leading to an increase of the facility’s percentage storage space from 35% to 70%.

It would also include solar panels across the roof, which the Scouts Association said would help aid its goal of net zero by 2030 – the redevelopment will also aid in the Scouts’ aim of £10m in profits by 2030.

The existing car park to the south of the site would be removed, which planning agents for the development Lewis and Co Planning said was close to many residents’ gardens, and its removal would lead to fewer ‘activities’ on that border, aiming to improve their amenity.

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North Wall cleaner ‘worried for people’s welfare’ after finding hazardous waste with asbestos dumped in Immingham It is unclear who dumped the hazardous waste at the sea defences in Immingham – North Wall Cleaner Frank Sparkes said he is concerned for the safety of children who visit the area on weekends A Grimsby man who has spent 25 years of his life making the area a cleaner and tidier place to live says he is worried for children’s welfare and safety after a pile of hazardous waste containing asbestos has been dumped in Immingham by an unknown fly-tipper.

Frank Sparkes, 76, also known as the North Wall Cleaner, came across the huge pile containing metal fencing, wooden pallets and doorframes, whilst clearing a section of the sea defences in Immingham last week.

Amongst the waste is asbestos, a hazardous material once widely used in building materials that is known to cause a range of serious health problems for those who are exposed to it.

Frank said the waste was dumped in the middle of the pathway by an unknown fly-tipper, but has since been moved to the side of the path and fenced off with tape by contractors working in the area.

He told Grimsby Live: “It’s been there for about two weeks. If we knew who had dumped it we could do something, but we don’t know.

The workers have put a red flag around it, but I’m worried because you get kids down there on their bikes at the weekend.

“They only need to breathe in a bit of the asbestos and get it into their lungs, and it’s a slow death sentence.”

Conditions caused by asbestos

exposure - known as asbestosis - can take many years to appear.

Symptoms include shortness of breath, extreme fatigue, a persistent cough, wheezing and pain. Asbestos exposure has also been linked to developing cancer later in life.

Frank continued: “My mind would be a lot lighter if it was gone, it’s so dangerous. It’s dangerous for the kids who go down there at the weekend, it’s dangerous for anybody. It’s just out of order dumping stuff like that. If there wasn’t asbestos in it, I would’ve picked it all up.

“It looks as if it’s from a garage or shed where the things have been dumped from, because you can see the door amongst the waste.

The contractors here couldn’t get to work because all the waste was just dumped in the middle of the path and you couldn’t get down there, so they’ve moved it out of the way and put a fence around it.

Whoever dumped it just dumped it there and drove off.

“I can’t work there and clear that area until it’s gone, and nobody is helping me.”

When contacted

by Grimsby Live, a spokesperson for the Environment Agency said the responsibility of removing the

“concerning” fly-tipping lies with North East Lincolnshire Council.

They said: “We are concerned by the news of fly tipping on a sea defence, however, the responsibility for removing this waste lies with the local council.

In response, a spokesperson for the Council told Grimsby Live: “This is the first time North East Lincolnshire Council has been made aware of what appears to be illegal fly-tipping on this particular piece of land in Immingham.

“However, the authority can confirm that this land is not owned

by North East Lincolnshire Council and the authority therefore does not take responsibility for its clearance. However, officers are now trying to establish the owner of the land and will inform them of their responsibilities regarding its upkeep and clearance.”

asbestos hub magazine | 43

Barrow Market set to be relocated next year due to asbestos concerns BARROW Market is set to relocate to another location next year following asbestos concerns A new temporary market away from the present market hall will be created in two substantial vacant units near The Mall facing onto Dalton Road.

Westmorland and Furness Council said it thought that a phased approach could be taken to the internal refurbishment and asbestos removal with traders remaining in the market hall while the work took place.

However, concerns were raised by market traders about operating close to where asbestos removal works were taking place which could impact significantly on footfall, said the council.

The council said it completed an in-depth review of the risks associated with undertaking the asbestos removal and refurbishment works within an active market and concluded it would be safer for staff, traders, and the general public not to be in the hall during the works.

Traders will be given the opportunity to relocate to the newly-refurbished area of

the market. Any traders who do not wish to be relocated will be supported and receive compensation.

The units within the Mall are promised to be refurbished to a high standard and traders who want to take up the offer will be able to trade from there from April 2024 while the refurbishment project is completed.

It is estimated that the work will take two years to complete.

The meat hall will remain open as planned, but with access only from Dalton Road.

Councillor Peter Thornton, Cabinet Member for Highways and Assets, said: “The relocation of the traders will ensure they can continue offering the same great service while giving them, customers and staff reassurance that they are safe, while still in an easily accessible location, with the added bonus of the project being completed up to 12 weeks sooner. We listened to the concerns and acted and I am sure the traders will enjoy their new home

44 | asbestos hub magazine

while the market hall is rejuvenated.”

The work is part of a £17.5 million Levelling Up Fund scheme to reinvigorate the Market Hall, neighbouring arts and entertainment venue The Forum and the public realm that surrounds it to attract more people into the town centre, bringing the community together and boosting the local economy.

As well as transforming the market and The Forum, a Town Centre Community Hub will be created within The Forum which will offer a welcoming new refurbished space which showcases local culture, activities and events, provides meeting, makers and entrepreneurial space.

Public realm improvements on Duke Street and at the Portland walk entrance of Barrow Market Hall will help to make the town centre a more attractive, thriving and vibrant place for people to spend time and enjoy visiting.

The creation of a pocket park/outdoor events space, at The Market Square will enable the delivery of a programme of events to encourage community participation and increase of the number of visitors to the town.

Preparatory work for demolition has started in Dalton Road and will continue through to the end of January. Properties at 77/79, 81 and 83 Dalton Road, 10 Stephen Street and 1,2,3 and 4 The Ginnel are to be demolished to make way for the pocket park and enhanced public realm features.

Access will remain open between Dalton Road and Portland

J&J working to settle more asbestos related talc cases

Walk over the Christmas period but will close in the new year, when demolition of the units in The Ginnel starts. Got It Covered will start trading from its new premises at 93 Dalton Road from 9 January.

Meanwhile, a contract to undertake structural repairs to the Forum tower has been tendered and is due to be awarded soon.

Work on that is due to start early in the new year.

Work on the asbestos removal has been delayed slightly but a contractor is now in place. The removal is scheduled to start in February and is due to be completed in the summer.

The procurement process has also started to tender for the main refurbishment. This contract is scheduled to be in place by January, with work on the detailed design process starting in February.

Councillor Virginia Taylor, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Communities and Localities, said: “Things are really looking up for Barrow town centre and it is really exciting to see this project gathering pace. It will be a real catalyst to increase footfall and support lasting change, creating new opportunities for people to spend more time in the town centre.”

Johnson & Johnson is trying to resolve some of the thousands of lawsuits filed claiming its talc-based baby powder causes cancer. J&J’s in-house lawyer overseeing the talc litigation Eric Haas, said during an investor call that the recent settlements covered cases involving plaintiffs with mesothelioma.

In hopes of eventually reaching a global settlement, the company announced that three law firms settled around 100 cases in the first week of December 2023. Haas didn’t reveal any further details about the dollar amounts of the settlements, the identity of the law firms involved, or exactly how many people the deal affects.

“We have made recent progress over the last few weeks,” Haas told investors when speaking about resolving groups of legal cases from plaintiffs alleging they developed mesothelioma from asbestoscontaminated baby powder.

He also said the company had resolved all but one of the cases scheduled for trial in 2023.

“Our intention with talc is to bring resolution to these cases,” J&J Chief Executive Officer

Joaquin Duato told investors.

Duato noted settling the cases would allow the company to “spend our days” on treatment advancement.

J&J Legal Issues Johnson & Johnson is facing more than 50,000 talc lawsuits in connection to claims that its baby powder is tainted with asbestos and can cause cancer.

Most of the plaintiffs are women with ovarian cancer. J&J argues its products aren’t asbestoscontaminated and are safe.

The company is considering a third attempt at filing for bankruptcy after courts rejected the move twice. J&J tried two Chapter 11 filings through its subsidiary LTL Management. A judge dismissed both attempts, saying the company didn’t qualify for bankruptcy protection since it was not in financial distress.

For its third attempt J&J may attempt to move its legal liabilities to Texas. According to the Wall Street Journal, the move would need to involve one of Johnson & Johnson’s existing businesses already in Texas in order to establish a venue. The strategy is known as the “Texas Two-Step.”

asbestos hub magazine | 45

Could recycling rubble contaminated with asbestos be dangerous for Ukrainians?

70% of buildings in Ukraine are estimated to contain asbestos “When a bomb turns an entire building into rubble, the concrete is smashed into pieces. Everything from pieces of asbestos to old sofa cushions ends up mixed together”, Professor Matti Kuittinen, an expert in architecture at Aalto University tells Euronews Green.

Russian shelling has triggered millions of tonnes of asbestos to be released, forming heaps of contaminated rubble – a cause for concern given that an estimated 70% of Ukrainian buildings contain asbestos.

While the risks of asbestos contamination are reduced when it is sealed in glue or cement, once exposed these risks significantly increase.

According to the World Health Organization, asbestos is a serious carcinogen which can also trigger chronic lung conditions.

As more and more companies

are beginning to recycle rubble in Ukraine, asbestos is an increasing health hazard for civilians and headache for authorities. It is also not the only material which is contaminating debris – as chemicals released from ammunition and missiles have also entered the air, soil and water across Ukraine.

Ukraine: a decade-long “dumping ground” for asbestos “Ukraine has been used as a dumping ground for asbestos for decades. At times almost literally – as European countries exported excess stock when they banned it,” explains David Hodgkin, Shelter and Specialists Settlement Expert at Miyamoto International.

Asbestos was commonly used in roofing materials, cement and adhesives. Although efforts to phase out asbestos began in 2011, these faced heavy opposition – but the material was eventually formally outlawed in 2022.

46 | asbestos hub magazine

Ukraine’s high level of asbestos imports have been closely tied to Russian influence, while the substance was banned in the EU back in 2005.

“Russia and Kazakhstan exported vast quantities [of asbestos] to former Soviet nation states like Ukraine along with large and clever disinformation campaigns”, added Hodgkin.

Can you really remove asbestos to recycle rubble?

In Europe, a long list of harmful and toxic materials are prohibited from being recycled – and asbestos is one of them. But asbestos can be extracted, with varying levels of success, and the materials which surround it recycled.

“Making cement creates a very high burden of CO2, so reusing such cement with valuable components without the asbestos would be very sensible”, says Yvonne Waterman, Founder and

President of the European Asbestos Forum Foundation.

For some, recycling debris fits into green reconstruction plans, a hot topic discussed at talks organised by the European Commission in Vilnius last month.

Safety standards: “We don’t have access to data” But some experts worry about whether safety standards can be adequately implemented to protect workers.

“The majority of construction sites are not equipped with the necessary equipment – and many debris recycling strategies do not take into account the danger of asbestos dust, which appears after debris has been milled,” Vasyl Andreyev, Head of the Ukrainian Building Workers Association warns.

Exact figures for asbestosrelated illnesses and deaths are very limited in Ukraine, in part due to the ban on the material being so recent.

“We don’t have access to data.

The ban was passed in 2022 but it officially came into force in October 2023 and the Ministry of Health has not been collecting this information,” explains Andreyev.

But a lack of data does not mean a lack of cases – in the EU asbestos claimed almost 72,000 lives in 2019 alone.

“Although Ukraine has now banned asbestos, it has yet to produce the swath of laws and regulations required for safe removal, transport and disposal.

Neo-Eco Ukraine construction site

It also does not have the medical infrastructure to conduct large scale testing into the unquantified levels of disease which asbestos will cause,” David Hodgkin, Shelter and Specialists Settlement Expert at Miyamoto International tells Euronews Green.

Asbestos picking: could this be a new source of jobs?

For some businesses, recycling debris is key to a green reconstruction as well as a way of creating new jobs. One way of doing this is through asbestos sorting.

Industrial engineering company Neo-Eco Ukraine has experience in the matter. Specialised in waste recycling, Neo-Eco led a pilot recycling project in Hostomel, a city north of Kyiv.

“Up to 99% of our team are Ukrainian, it’s a way to create jobs and reinvigorate the local economy,” says Bart Gruyaert,

A volunteer hauls a carts with rubbish during clearing Zhanna and Serhiy Dynaeva’s house which was destroyed by Russian bombardment, near Chernihiv

Project Director at Neo-Eco Ukraine.

Generating 20 jobs for locals, the three month project in Hostomel ensured no waste was deposited in landfills, meaning that 7,150 m3 of uncontrolled waste was prevented from being dumped into surrounding nature.

Neo-Eco Ukraine works to remove asbestos from the source, before buildings are torn down.

“This can mean removing a roof with a crane to examine its contents before it is demolished, which is slightly more costly than regular debris removal,” says Gruyaert.

Then the “picking part” follows, which involves removing the finer elements of asbestos.

“Any small remaining asbestos particles in the total volume of residual debris are minimum, and far below European Union norms for solid state asbestos allowed in solid material,” Gruyaert says.

The team is currently working on another project in Mykolaiv, southern Ukraine and remains optimistic that there is still a chance for “the country to be seen as a leader in large-scale asbestos handling and management,” said Gruyaert.

For other companies, recycling rubble and debris can also be a way to make use of abandoned infrastructure. This is the case for Kopach, a company which worked to process waste at one of Ukraine’s largest metallurgy plants before the war.

asbestos hub magazine | 47

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