Chamber of Construction Industry, Sri Lankabrings knowledge onChrysotile Asbestos to health professionals

The Chamber of Construction Industry Sri Lanka (CCI), the apex body which represents all the construction industry stakeholders in Sri Lanka held a special seminar and breakfast meeting on “Any Health Risk of Asbestos – Chrysotile Cement Roofing” recently at the Galadari Hotel. Taking in to consideration the call to ban all asbestos related products in Sri Lanka, the CCI as the responsible main representative of the construction industry brought downboth international and local experts to bring knowledge on the health implications of this issue.

The event was supported by the Chrysotile Information Centre. The Chrysotile Information Center is a non-profit organization established to provide scientific information, public education and assistance in relation to the responsible and safe use of Chrysotile. It provides objective information, trainings and seminars to workers, manufacturers, members of the public, governments and other relevant stakeholders regarding best practices for Chrysotile fiber handling and usage. The center also advocates for the mandatory inclusion of safe use programs, and works closely with local manufacturers and relevant government/regulatory bodies to raise awareness about the need for and benefits of safe use. It has presence in Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

Dr.David M Bernstein Ph.D. a world renowned toxicologist delivered a comprehensive address on the health risks of Chrysotile while Dr.Vivek Chandra Rao a senior medical professional from India also discussed in detail the case study of his home country and how the issue was dealt with there. The seminar was attended by many eminent health professionals in the country who were enlightened and educated on the subject.