A silent killer is finally being addressed in Manitoba. Asbestos, a material once lauded for its durability, has been revealed as a major threat, and the province is taking action to protect its workers. This is a critical step, considering that asbestos exposure is the leading cause of workplace-related deaths in Manitoba.
Manitoba is updating its regulations surrounding asbestos to protect workers from dangerous exposure. Labour and Immigration Minister Malaya Marcelino stated that "stronger, clearer rules were needed" to ensure the safety of those who repair and maintain our buildings. But here's where it gets controversial: enforcement of these new rules won't begin until 2027.
Under the new regulations, workers who handle asbestos will need to undergo training and certification. Employers who utilize asbestos must register with the province, and building owners will bear greater responsibility for ensuring worker safety. The government is giving workers until June 2027 to either pass an exam administered by the Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba on safe asbestos handling or complete training and pass the test for certification. Training costs could range from $150 to $950 per worker, based on the model used in British Columbia. Companies employing workers who handle asbestos must also register with the province by June 2027 to be authorized to work with the material.
Asbestos, once a common component in roofing materials, insulation, and other building products, was not fully banned in Canada until 2018, although its use was largely phased out around 1990. During demolition and construction projects, microscopic asbestos fibers can be released and trapped in people's lungs, causing several health conditions, including cancer.
Kevin Rebeck, president of the Manitoba Federation of Labour (MFL), stated that approximately six Manitobans die annually from diseases related to asbestos exposure. He emphasizes that the province's previous rules were inadequate. While general workplace safety and health regulations for asbestos existed, training wasn't standardized or mandatory, leaving it up to the employer. Rebeck notes that as more older buildings require demolition or repair, workers will face increased asbestos exposure in the near future. The MFL has advocated for stronger regulations to prevent a new wave of asbestos-related deaths.
Jeremy Carslon, president and training coordinator for Insulators Local 99, highlights that friable asbestos can release fibers into the air if not properly handled, endangering building occupants. He welcomes the stricter regulations because, at present, it's difficult to know who is handling asbestos and whether they are following the rules.
A key concern is the potential for untrained workers to unknowingly handle asbestos. The MFL has noted job postings offering asbestos removal opportunities, where workers might not have the necessary skills or equipment. The new regulations will empower health and safety officers to ensure employers are registered and workers are trained, allowing them to issue stop-work orders and fines for non-compliance.
What are your thoughts on these new regulations? Do you think the timeline for implementation is reasonable? Share your opinions in the comments below!
