208b The role of WHWB in international efforts to eliminate asbestos use and deal with its legacy

Abstract Globally, asbestos use is down by around 70% from the maximum level reached in the 1970s. However asbestos use remains a significant occupational exposure in a number of countries, particularly in Asia. There is also a tremendous amount of legacy asbestos in the built environment all over the world. So there is still much to do working towards a global ban on the use of asbestos, as well as eliminating legacy asbestos from the built environment. WHWB has established a global Asbestos Working Group to focus on issues where our occupational health expertise can add the most value. This includes identifying substitutes for asbestos in manufacturing asbestos cement products, especially corrugated roofs. As well, we are identifying and promoting effective asbestos management approaches with a focus on best practices and resources of most value in countries with limited occupational health resources. We are also contributing to international work on developing impact and cost data which provide the business case for remediation and other prevention action. Finally, we are partnering with colleagues in countries facing challenges around asbestos.