Posted on May 29, 2024
We concluded Asbestos Awareness Month with our 13th webinar, which brought together a diverse panel of experts who provided invaluable insights into legacy asbestos and its ongoing impact on our nation. This session, titled “Legacy Asbestos Prevention: What is asbestos? Where is it found? What should I do? and Understanding Legislation and New Regulations,” featured a range of presenters including Dr. Raja Flores, Brent Kynoch, Linda Reinstein, Greg Russell, Bob Sussman, and Dr. Dan Whu, each who brought a unique perspective to the discussion.
Every panelist contributed significantly to the dialogue, emphasizing the technical aspects of asbestos management and the human stories behind the ongoing struggle for safety and regulation.
Leading the webinar conversation, Dr. Raja Flores, a surgeon, stressed, “Congress can save more lives with a pen than I can with my scalpel.” He also discussed early warning symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
Dr. Dan Whu spoke about the health impact of legacy asbestos exposure on firefighters, while Brent Kynoch shared where to find legacy asbestos and how to prevent exposure.
Chris Carberg, Health Advocate and Founder of MesotheliomaHope.com said, “Until our lawmakers do the right thing and pass a complete asbestos ban through legislation, awareness and prevention are among our greatest hopes. ADAO has brought together some of the most incredible scientific minds and compassionate hearts to stop deadly illnesses before they start.”
Throughout the webinar, our panelists shared vital resources, educating our community about the dangers of asbestos. You can find those resources here on our webinar resource page or watch the webinar on our YouTube channel. The webinar focused on legislative solutions like the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act (ARBAN), which Greg Russell from the International Association of Firefighters upheld as a significant way to prevent future generations from the deadly impact of asbestos.
Finally, ADAO’s legal counsel, former EPA Official Bob Sussman, discussed the new EPA regulations on asbestos.
Additional asbestos prevention and management resources are always available on our Know Asbestos, Think Prevention website. The website details how to effectively prevent asbestos exposure in various environments, including for contractors, workers, renovators, and demolitionists. It also features more information on legacy asbestos and asbestos health risks.
The community’s response was overwhelmingly positive, with participants appreciating the panel’s comprehensive approach. The discussions underscored the need for ongoing vigilance and community engagement in the fight against asbestos-related hazards. The insights shared during the webinar will undoubtedly be crucial in shaping future advocacy and education efforts.
Stay tuned for announcements about our next session, and thank you to everyone who joined and contributed to this presentation. A recording is available on our website for those who missed the live webinar.
As we move into May, we are honoring the ongoing battle for safer working conditions amidst asbestos challenges. ADAO stands in solidarity with our colleagues, trade unions, and OSH advocates who tirelessly advocate for workers’ rights worldwide.
Thank you to everyone who participated in this webinar. Your feedback is essential as we continue to tackle crucial public health issues together and make a world free from asbestos a reality.
Linda Reinstein
