WHEREAS:

Asbestos is a well-known killer, causing lung cancer, mesothelioma, asbestosis, and other diseases; and

WHEREAS:

Asbestos remains in thousands of buildings and work locations where AFSCME members are employed. Our members risk exposure to this deadly material on a daily basis; and

WHEREAS:

Congress passed strong legislation in 1986 directing the Environmental Protection Agency to dramatically reduce potential exposure to occupants of school buildings, but EPA has not recommended similar action for other public and commercial buildings; and

WHEREAS:

EPA has proposed a ban on the manufacture, importing, and processing of asbestos in many consumer products. Any product that is not banned would be labeled as containing asbestos.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That all buildings in which AFSCME members work be inspected by EPA-licensed asbestos inspectors for the presence and condition of asbestos-containing materials and all information be provided to the union; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That intact asbestos material be monitored and any damaged material should be removed or other actions taken to ensure the safety of workers; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME urge adoption of EPA's proposed ban on asbestos products and encourage that OSHA adopt the NIOSH recommended exposure limit; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME continue to support legislation that addresses asbestos hazards in the schools and will also seek similar protections for AFSCME members who are employed at other worksites; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

That AFSCME councils and locals negotiate language, contact elected officials, and use whatever means available to ensure buildings are inspected, employees are trained, and asbestos hazards are safely abated.

SUBMITTED BY:

JoAnn Johntony, State President
Bonnie Bell Clark, State Vice President
OAPSE Local 4
Columbus, Ohio