THE Architect and Building Management Services Division (ABMSD) of the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) has partnered with the Australian-Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program (SIIP) and the government’s Environment Division to conduct critical awareness sessions for local contractors in Honiara regarding the dangers of asbestos.
ABMSD Director Philip Baura said they were invited to for the sessions to educate builders and contractors on the safe identification and disposal of asbestos. The first workshop Friday last week, where Director Baura facilitated a session focusing on the government’s protocols for handling asbestos in public buildings. This week, he has delegated responsibilities to his deputy and team members to participate in a second workshop organized by the Environment Division, in collaboration with the EU-funded PacWaste Plus Project and facilitated by the South Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP).
“The primary objective of these workshops is to empower our builders and contractors in the construction industry with essential knowledge on the risks associated with asbestos and the methods for its safe disposal
“We aim to raise awareness about the health hazards posed by asbestos exposure and educate participants on effective detection and removal techniques,” Mr. Baura stated.
He added, “Our division used to engage two abatement experts to address cases of asbestos presence in government residences. We closely collaborate with the Honiara City Council to utilize the Ranadi landfill site for safe disposal of asbestos, adhering to standard operating procedures.”
Asbestos is known to be present in approximately 80% of residences and commercial buildings constructed prior to the 1980s. In response to the associated health risks, the government has since prohibited the use of asbestos-containing materials in new construction projects and demolition of old government houses in Honiara and provincial centres.
