The Weyburn and District Labour Council will be participating in the distribution of a brochure entitled "Asbestos: Is it in your home?" that has been published by the Ban Asbestos Committee of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Federation of Labour Occupational Health and Safety Committee. This important new safety brochure for Saskatchewan homeowners was released on this year's Day of Mourning - the day workers' who have been killed or injured on the job are recognized.
"Last year in Saskatchewan we lost four workers to asbestos-related disease. This deadly substance is also found in public buildings and homes. We want to make sure Saskatchewan citizens know where to look for asbestos, so they can protect themselves and their families," said Wanda Bartlett, president of the Weyburn and District Labour Council.
The brochure explains the health dangers of exposure to asbestos and practical advice about what to do if you find it in your home.
Asbestos was used in many types of building products and insulation materials prior to the 1970's, so homes built before the 1970's are a top priority.
Tiny asbestos fibres inhaled into the lungs can cause various forms of lung cancer, often many years after exposure.
Bob Sass, co-chair of the Ban Asbestos Saskatchewan Committee is passionate about reaching the public with the safety information.
"Asbestos kills over 100,000 people per year worldwide," said Sass. "We must be vigilant in tracking down where the substance is found in our communities and we must continue to pressure the Harper government to stop the mining and export of asbestos to developing countries."
The brochure will be distributed in the next few weeks.
