(KPL) The Lao Federation of Trade Union (LFTU), in cooperation with the Union Aid Abroad- APHEDA, held a training course on understanding the health impact of using asbestos for trainers of the LFTU.

The training was held on March 28-29 in Vientiane Capital and co-chaired by Vice President of the LFTU, Mr Symoun Ounlasy, and a coordinator of the Rock Mineral Fiber Project for the APHEDA, Mr Felix Lasetan.

The participants were trained by highly experienced trainers from Thailand, Vietnam, International organizations and other related sectors.

Several years ago, the Lao PDR was importing an average of 8,000 tonnes per year of asbestos and products that are composed of asbestos to be used in constructions such as heat resistant materials and tiles.

According to a 2014 report of the World Health Organization, asbestos was a confirmed carcinogen, particularly causing lung cancer, with over 125 million people worldwide affected by its use, and about 107,000 deaths per year. More than 50 countries have banned the use of asbestos.

In the Lao PDR in 2013, The Department of Industry and Handicrafts Ministry of Industry and Commerce made a study to reduce the impact of use rock mineral fibers.

The participants of the training programme will disseminate useful information to local people to recognise the negative effects of using asbestos, thanks to the LFTU..

KPL