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Asbestos is a naturally-occurring mineral that was used extensively in building materials, such as ceiling and floor tiles, wallboards and siding, both as an insulator and for fire protection. Asbestos has since been found to be a health hazard, and its use in building materials was banned in 1976.
The Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) asked PW&S to evaluate GNWT assets maintained by PW&S for asbestos-containing materials. An asbestos consultant trained PW&S staff in November 1999; the training included how to identify potential asbestos problem areas. PW&S developed an Asbestos Management Plan and has started the evaluation process. 
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The Department is inspecting assets constructed before 1980 to determine the presence of asbestos. PW&S will then create an inventory of those assets with confirmed asbestos, and develop individual management plans for each asset.
David Clark, WCB Director of Prevention Services, concludes, “The Asbestos Management Plan is an excellent program. If used properly, it will assist in the monitoring of asbestos and in minimizing exposure to workers. It’s a win-win situation for all concerned, and PW&S is to be commended for this initiative.” 
This service piping is wrapped with pipe insulation containing asbestos and an outer layer of orange canvas. |
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Getting Results Page 5 |
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