In a quest towards an asbestos-free working environment, the Department of Employment and Labour is to host the virtual launch of the Asbestos Abatement Regulations.

The new Asbestos Abatement Regulations 2020 replaces the Asbestos Regulations, 2001 and it is done in partnership with National Institute for Occupational Health (NIOH). The theme of the launch is: “Moving towards an asbestos risk free work environment and society".

The new regulations came into operation on 10 November 2020 and introduce several changes for employers whose employees may be exposed to asbestos dust during the course and scope of their employment.

The Department of Employment and Labour acknowledge that many work environments still have asbestos in place but are confident that if well managed this should not hold a risk to the health of workers. Therefore, the new regulations aim to ensure employers identify and manage asbestos in the workplace and where it is no longer possible to maintain asbestos in a safe condition – the asbestos is safely removed and disposed.

The virtual launch is expected to be addressed by Director-General Thobile Lamati. He will share the platform with Inspector General Aggy Moiloa; Chief Inspector Tibor Szana; Senior Specialist: Occupational Health & Hygiene Bulelwa Huna; Health and Hygiene Specialist Elize Lourens and NIOH's occupational hygienist G Mizan.

The launch will be held as follows:

When: 27 November 2020

Host: The Department of Employment and Labour; and the NIOH

Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_yANFYiwSTnukvvzSZUwktA

For more information, contact:

Musa Zondi  

Acting Departmental spokesperson

 “Our actions are key to stopping the second wave of Covid-19 spread. Wear your mask, wash hands regularly and keep maintaining the social distancing"

-ENDS-

Issued by: Department of Employment and Labour​