ABC reported that after the Asbestos Diseases Society of Australia has expressed concern about reports of asbestos fears on a Pilbara worksite in North West Western Australia, some employees and contractors working on the Sino Iron project walked off the job amid asbestos fears.

Mr Steve McCartney from the manufacturing union said that some employees and contractors still have not returned to work.

He said that "My understanding is there are about 150 to 160 workers that haven't returned to work and there were 40 who did return to work. They're still waiting for what they've been asking for which is proof that it is a safe workplace."

Mr Robert Vojakovic president of Asbestos Diseases said that the latest incident highlights the need for the State Government and unions to work together. He said that "Unless serious discussions took place, because everyone is going to duck for cover. Nobody is going to out their hand up and accept responsibility. Get the parties together because it's in the interest of all of us that people have a safe working environment and the people who live in the area."

Mr Vojakovic said that employees have the right to raise safety concerns. The workers should not be endured to work in unsafe working conditions.

He said that "The employer should actually ensure the safety is paramount importance for the people who are employed there and I congratulate the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union for taking such a serious step to protect their workers."

Citic Pacific said that the risk of asbestos on the site is manageable and has assured staff they are safe.

(Sourced from ABC.Net)