The importation of asbestos-containing products is to be banned, Environment Minister Dr Nick Smith announced on 15 June 2016. The ban is currently being drafted and will take into force on 1 October 2016.

Asbestos are naturally occurring fibrous minerals as silicates with a structure of thin fibrous crystals, containing oxides of magnesium, iron, aluminum and sodium, and silicon dioxide. Asbestos fibres will be released to the air in powdery and it may accumulate in the lung to cause organ canceration after absorbed by human bodies. According to Dr Smith, exposure to asbestos poses a risk of respiratory disease and is the single biggest cause of work-related fatalities, at 170 per year.

The importation of raw asbestos is already banned but it is now prohibition to items which contain asbestos, with a few exceptions.

However, a permit will only be issued if there is genuinely no alternative product available, or if the alternative would be disproportionately expensive. In addition, an importer would have to be able to show that any risk of asbestos exposure can be safely managed.

Auto parts, textiles and construction materials will be affected by the ban. C&K Testing advises businesses should deal with due care.

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Further information
Govt moves on asbestos-containing products