Global call for action to scientists, doctors, researchers and groups affected by asbestos

An influential group of scientists and researchers today launched a global campaign to counter the misinformation from the asbestos industry, particularly in Asia, about the cancer causing product. 

At least 47 workers were killed and many more were severely injured, when a fireworks factory exploded in Tangerang district, Indonesia on Thursday, October 26. Located in one of biggest industrial area in Indonesia, the PT Panca Buana Cahaya Sukses (PBCS) factory is now being suspected by the Indonesian Ministry of Manpower of not having appropriate work safety procedures. The allegation came after it was discovered that the factory gate was always locked and this trapped many workers inside the factory when the accident occurred.

Asia Monitor Resource Centre (AMRC), Asian Network for the Rights of Occupational and Environmental Victims (ANROEV), GoodElectronics Network (GE), International Campaign for Responsible Technology (ICRT), IPEN

Date: 16 June, 2017

The Occupational and Environmental Health Network of India (OEHNI) published the National Asbestos Profile of India on April 28, 2017 - International Workers Memorial Day. The hazards of Asbestos are well known. 55 countries have banned its use, trade, import, mining, manufacturing and other economic activities related to asbestos. Nepal banned asbestos in 2014 while Sri Lanka has declared to ban import of asbestos roof sheets from 2018. The Government of Sri Lanka plans to cease use of all asbestos products by 2024.

*This manual was updated in May 2016 with the new regulations in China.

This training manual was produced by China Labor Support Network (CLSN) for their training workshop on the Reproductive Health of Women workers in the garments and electronics manufacturing industries, mainly because of the higher concentration of women employees in these industries.