2010:02 THE NEED FOR A CENTRAL REGISTRY OF ASBESTOS
Whereas 1
In Canada, there is no central registry of medical asbestos cases as there is in other countries, so no predictions of problems can be made; and
Whereas 2
In November 2007, a paper “Exploratory Sampling of Asbestos in Residences near Thetford Mine: The Public Health Threat in Quebec” reported that levels of asbestos in more than half the homes were excessive; and
Whereas 3
Canadian Occupational Health Agency studies have concluded that exposures to asbestos accounted for approximately 60% of all work-related deaths in the country in 2005; and
Whereas 4
“Bystander” cases of asbestos-related disease have been documented; therefore, be it
Resolved 1
That the National Council of Women of Canada adopt as policy the creation of a Central Registry of people living with medical effects from asbestos and of buildings containing asbestos; and be it further
Resolved 2
That the National Council of Women of Canada urge the Government of Canada to develop a plan to include:
a. A national surveillance system to track health outcomes of people who have been exposed to asbestos; and
b. A listing of buildings that contain asbestos.