Asbestos News
Philippines labor organization seeking protection for teachers from asbestos
The Manila, Philippines Department of Education was recently asked to take certain steps in order to protect local teachers from being exposed to hazardous substances such as asbestos in the workplace.The Sun Star reports that during the Brigada Eskwela week-long program, the Associated Labor Unions-Trade Union Congress of the Philippines explained to the education department that the inhalation of carcinogenic asbestos fibers can have serious consequences.
Among these consequences is the development of deadly diseases such as lung cancer, asbestosis and malignant mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer that occurs in the tissues surrounding many of the body's internal organs.
According to the World Health Organization, approximately 107,000 people around the world die every year as a result of such asbestos-related illnesses.
The labor group explained that the carcinogenic substance is present in a number of older schools as the material was previously used as in the construction industry due to its utility as an insulator and resistance to fire.
5/25/11
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