Construction workers tie rebar cages on the site of a new flyover in Phnom Penh in 2024. Post staff
The government is exploring options to manage the risks associated with the use of construction materials which use asbestos, an extremely hazardous fibrous mineral that poses grave health risks.
Among the options on the table is a total ban, or the introduction of regulations governing its use.
The use of asbestos is completely banned in 68 countries and territories worldwide, including the UK, Australia, Japan, South Korea and the EU.
The Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning, and Construction held a January 27 consultation workshop to address the risks associated with asbestos use in the construction sector.
Its objective was to provide Cambodian citizens with informed choices on whether to continue using asbestos-containing materials – with precautionary conditions – or to eliminate them altogether.
According to the ministry, asbestos is found in several key construction materials, including roofing sheets, insulation, flooring, and fireproof and heat-resistant products, as well as some textiles.
“Asbestos poses serious public health risks, particularly to the respiratory system and the lungs, when it is disturbed through activities such as cutting, drilling, grinding, demolition or degradation,” said the ministry.
While it is banned in many countries, some nations continue to allow its use, with strict regulations and control measures, added the ministry.
Dr. Nuth Sambath, head of the Institute of Biological Sciences, Medicine, and Agriculture at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, explained that asbestos is a naturally occurring substance which is processed and then used in construction materials like fibrous cement.
It consists of fine glass-like fibres which are heat-resistant and non-conductive, making them useful for insulation in factories, warehouses and ships.
“Once asbestos fibres enter the lungs, they cannot be expelled, leading to a high risk of lung cancer. There are different types of asbestos, and to reduce exposure risks, construction workers are advised to wear masks, protective clothing and gloves to prevent inhalation. If inhaled, the fibres can remain in the lungs, causing inflammation, fibrosis or lung cancer,” he said.
“In addition to inhalation, asbestos can also enter the body through food and water. Water flowing through asbestos cement pipes, if not properly filtered or treated, can introduce asbestos fibres into the body when consumed,” he added.
The Australian government, through its embassy in Phnom Penh, has previously collaborated with the Cambodian government and relevant organisations to explore ways to eliminate the use of asbestos in the Kingdom.
