Asbestos

Asbestos-related disease is the number one killer in New Zealand workplaces.

Awareness of the dangers of asbestos has increased over time yet more than 170 New Zealanders die each year (on average) from diseases stemming from exposure to asbestos. The time between exposure to asbestos and development of disease can be decades long.

The hazard presented by asbestos is its fibres which, if inhaled, can lodge in the lungs.

For guidance on working with asbestos and asbestos regulations please visit the Worksafe website. The website also provides information on duties relating to work involving asbestos – licensed and unlicensed.