Workers down tools due to asbestos fears -- MesoLink.org -- 01-24-05

Over two hundred workers at a UK plant have halted work because of an asbestos scare. The workers fear that they are breathing in asbestos dust, and talks have started between health and safety officials, Union representatives, and management. The workers that have downed tools include contractors from various organizations that were contracted to work at the site. The workers have now stated that there will be no more work done until proper investigations are carried out and clearance is given.

One worker stated that management had known about the problem for some time but had taken no action. He stated: "Asbestos is everywhere down here, on the ground, in the air and on scaffolding and piping. Management have done nothing about it. There are up to 250 men cabined up refusing to work until it is dealt with. If asbestos gets into our lungs it can affect our lives and our families' lives for years."

Another worker from the site added: "It's come to a head now and the men are refusing to work on the site. We're turning up for work, but we're not going out on the plant because we deem it to be unsafe." He also spoke of the many people that were at risk, from plumber and electricians to laggers and scaffolders.

It has now been arranged for officials from the Health and safety Executive to visit the site in order to ascertain whether there is any danger. Until this has done, and the all clear has been given, most workers have re-iterated that they will not continue to work there.