News & Insights
Greencap Supports Asbestos Awareness Month
November is Asbestos Awareness Month.
This national campaign aims to build awareness on the dangers of asbestos and provide education around how to avoid exposure and practice safe management of this hazardous material on properties, and in workplaces, that are likely to contain asbestos or asbestos-containing materials (ACM).
Australia’s extensive history of asbestos use parallels with the current high incidence of asbestos- related diseases in the country. Mesothelioma is a type of lung cancer that is directly caused by asbestos inhalation. This disease claims the lives of approximately two Australians every day. Asbestos has been banned from use in Australia since 31st December 2003, however the prevalence and impact of asbestos-related diseases continues to grow.
Factors contributing to asbestos exposure
- Renovations/Maintenance Works
Works can disrupt asbestos, releasing dangerous fibres into the air - Knowledge Deficit
Lack of awareness of the risks, where asbestos is commonly located and who is responsible for ensuring that buildings are safe from asbestos risk. - Legislation
Inconsistent legislation across Australia and differing industry practice can contribute to mismanagement - Importation
Goods from other countries that classify their product as ‘asbestos free’ because they contain a low level of asbestos
Greencap understands the challenges that businesses face in order to mitigate the risks of asbestos exposure. This is what makes Asbestos Awareness Month highly relevant for many industries in Australia. There is evidently a need for ongoing education to businesses and the wider community on the problem itself, and how to avoid the dangers associated to it.
At Greencap, these efforts are mirrored every month of the year, however a special effort is given during November.
Fore more info around the campaign please visit: asbestosawareness.com.au
What does Greencap do to raise awareness and assist with the problem?
News
Greencap regularly provide useful and informative information to clients and interested parties via news articles, risk reviews and whitepapers available on the Greencap website.
Recent Publications have focussed on the comprehension of legislation around asbestos, highlighting the need to understand key changes and duties required for property/site owners and developers.
- A Guide to Asbestos Management in Victoria for Post-2003 Buildings
- Understanding Asbestos Surveys and Key Controls in 2018
Muddy Boots Training Program
Greencap’s Muddy Boots Training program offers a range of asbestos courses* that deliver key safety insights that include:
- Asbestos Awareness
- Asbestos Management Responsibilities
- Asbestos Management Plans
- Asbestos Handling (design for people working with less than 10 m2 of asbestos)
- Silica Awareness
*Non-accredited
Breakfast Seminars
Greencap hosts informative breakfast seminars in various locations across Australia and New Zealand. Commonly, these seminars provide attendees with relevant information on how to manage properties and environments that are at risk of asbestos exposure. Legislative requirements are explained, as are the ramifications of failing to comply.
Partnership with the Bernie Banton Foundation (BBF)
The Bernie Banton Foundation provides support and advocacy to sufferers of asbestos related diseases and their loved ones. Greencap are proud to be the foundation’s Risk Management Partner in Australia and New Zealand joining them in the mission to bring greater awareness of asbestos and safe handling and assisting with fundraising for this not for profit organisation through various company activities and events.
Bernie Banton succumbed to peritoneal mesothelioma on 27 November 2007. Prior to this, he devoted his final life’s work toward the passionate campaign for justice and compensation for suffers of asbestos related diseases.
The 27th of November is recognised as Bernie Banton Day, and fittingly falls within Asbestos Awareness Month.
To learn more about the organisation, or support the ongoing work provided by BBF, visit the Bernie Banton Foundation website
For information or advice on asbestos and other hazardous materials in your workplace or facility:
Greencap acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.