December 28th, 2006

Reports relating to the number of asbestos related complaints in South Australia seem to indicate that even now there is not enough understanding in relation to the dangers of this substance – and this is a problem that concerns authorities in countries all around the world, not just in South Australia.

According to authorities in South Australia the number of complaints relating to the management and misuse of asbestos in the area has been steadily rising, and authorities in the area have added that in the last month alone around twenty complaints have been received by the Asbestos Diseases Authority in Adelaide.

One official stated that in the south of Adelaide works were carried out where homes were demolished in the area, and no protective materials or sheeting were used, and asbestos debris was simply dumped in a truck rather than being disposed of in the proper way.

She went on to state that many people are still not aware of the dangers of asbestos, adding: "Especially on the work sites - in building and demolition of buildings that aren't using the protective sheeting or protective clothing. We have bosses out there exposing their workers to asbestos."