South Africa: NUM want workers protected from persisting dangers of asbestos

The relentless campaign against asbestos and the pursuit of justice for asbestos victims have developed as an essential advocacy for the trade union movement, distinguished by profound emotions and unyielding determination. Even in countries where asbestos usage is prohibited, such as South Africa, the looming threat to workers’ and communities' health and well-being remains a troubling reality.

As such, on 12 October, the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM), a BWI affiliate in South Africa, launched a comprehensive asbestos awareness campaign with the goal of raising awareness about the persisting risks of asbestos and the urgent need for improved safety measures in workplaces and homes. The campaign gathered together about 27 workers, including four women, who issued a "call for stricter measures on asbestos" and "regular reviews on asbestos-approved inspection authority."The NUM workers insisted that all stakeholders, including employers and the government, must "act now" before asbestos inflicts further deaths and causes more detrimental health consequences on the unionists, workers and their surrounding communities.

The awareness campaign was strategically held just outside the Matlosana City Council's grounds, as part of the region's ongoing asbestos awareness and worker education measures. NUM members were thoroughly taught about the inherent dangers of asbestos through a series of instructive posters decorated with ilustrations. They were also taught about the critical precautionary precautions that must be taken when handling the dangerous chemical, both at work and at home. According to NUM, it fully recognises occupational health and safety as a fundamental worker right and is staunchly devoted to guaranteeing safe and dignified working conditions for all of its members and workers in general.