The NSW government has invited residents from Broken Hill to contribute to the development of a state-wide plan on the handling of asbestos.
The call for residents to have their say follows last month’s revelation that there is only one accredited asbestos remover in Broken Hill.
It is believed an educational seminar is necessary in Broken Hill to warn people about the dangers of asbestos, such as asbestosis and mesothelioma, as well as inform them of how to handle and remove it safely.
John Pearce, who runs Broken Hill’s only accredited asbestos removal company, believes that asbestos removalists should be called in for any amount, not just when asbestos is more than ten square metres, as outlined in current regulations.
Mr Pearce also believes the NSW government should invest in an advertising campaign to raise public awareness about asbestos and asbestos-related diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma.
Australia was once the highest asbestos user per capital worldwide, and Australian buildings containing fibro that were built before 1984 often contain asbestos products.
In Australia, many builders who used to work with asbestos are now seeking asbestos compensation in Australia. Some states have introduced laws to assist claims for asbestos compensation being made, including in New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia. This has allowed sufferers of asbestos conditions such as mesothelioma to pursue their asbestos legal rights.
