Australian Manufacturing Workers Union said that the International Metalworkers' Federation has endorsed the establishment of regional networks to achieve a global ban on asbestos.

According to the union, annual asbestos consumption in Asia accounted for 58% of global use in 2007, with China, India and Thailand leading the charge. Until its ban in many countries, asbestos was widely used in the metal working industry as insulating materials, due to its durability and fire and heat resistance. Steel yard workers were heavily exposed to asbestos.

So far, 50 countries have imposed a ban on asbestos, and the International Metalworkers’ Federation is now targeting Canada, which continues to mine and export asbestos.

(Sourced from www.metalworker.com.au)