Gov’t to Issue New Regulations Restricting Usage of Asbestos-Containing Construction Materials

• 1 September 2021
• Local News
• 1715 Views

The International Labour Organization (ILO) and Cambodia’s Ministry of Labour have warned of serious health issues stemming from asbestos contained in construction materials, as two bodies are cooperating to draft new regulations restricting and controlling its usage.

Minister of Labour and Vocational Training HE Ith Sam Heng said during the relevant meeting on Tuesday 31 September said that asbestos has been widely used in construction materials, especially fibro tile to increase strength and durability.

“However, most people never realize that this substance has been creating life-threatening risks for construction workers, manufacturers, and consumers. Asbestos will slowly develop and harm the lung and other parts of the body,” said HE Ith Sam Heng.

Therefore, the ministry’s working group is speeding up the input collection work and preparing to draft a new legal regulation to ensure the careful usage of any product containing asbestos.

Asbestos is found in a variety of industries including fibrous cement, construction materials, thermal and sound insulation systems, fire extinguishers, flooring, textiles, and abrasive materials, among others.

• Laws and Regulation
• Safety and Health