As Vice President and Health Hazard Administrator for the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers, I am well aware of the devastation caused by asbestos exposure. Our members have seen the devastation that asbestos can wreak across generations, and our Union has witnessed the destruction caused by asbestos exposure. We continue to strive for a total ban in the United States and Canada.
When federal legislation appeared to ban asbestos, our union stood strong against the 1% allowance, as this was not an acceptable compromise for the safety of our members and of Americans. The 1% clause would feasibly allow a 100 pound bag of asbestos to contain up to 1 pound of pure asbestos; something that we adamantly believe would further contribute to the propagation of asbestos use. The Insulators Union is proud to work with ADAO and other groups to raise awareness and work towards promoting safer environments for all. We tip our collective hard hats and say thanks to our friends Linda Reinstein, Dr. Steven Levin, Dr. Mike Harbut, and all of the good people who are working to educate people on the horrors associated with asbestos exposure and to secure a total ban.
Terry Lynch is International Vice President Health Hazard Administrator/Legislative Director of the International Association of Heat & Frost Insulators & Asbestos Workers.
