Labour and Immigration

FAQs: Asbestos Containing Material


Risks to Health from Asbestos Containing Material (ACM)

Asbestos presents a potential lung disease hazard when released into the air. Persons exposed to asbestos at work have developed several types of life-threatening diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma.

Where is ACM Found?

ACM has been used in thousands of building materials in structures, homes and buildings built or renovated prior to 1990, and is still used today in some applications although most applications have now been banned in Canada (2018). Figure 1 (over) contains examples of commonly found ACM.

Legal Requirements for ACM

Manitoba’s Workplace Safety and Health Regulation (the Regulation) has requirements for asbestos management and abatement. Parts 37, 33, 36, 6 and 35 of the Regulation describe what is required prior to, during and after renovation, demolition or alteration of structures with ACM. Full regulatory requirements can be found at: www.manitoba.ca/labour/safety/wshl

As per the Regulation, if ACM is suspected of being present, prior to any work being done, the property owner, contractor or employer must ensure:

Failure to comply with the above regulatory requirements may result in work stoppages, fines or prosecution.

Workplace Safety and Health:

Winnipeg: (204) 957-SAFE (7233)
Toll-Free: 1-855-957-SAFE (7233)
www.manitoba.ca/labour/safety

Levels of Risk When Working with Asbestos

Figure 1 - Examples of commonly found ACM

This page is also available as a pdf.

Additional resources on health risks associated with ACM can be found at www.safemanitoba.com. If you have further questions about legislative requirements or would like to report unsafe work call 1-855-957-SAFE and select "Option 1" to speak to a Safety and Health Officer.




Contact the Workplace Safety & Health Branch

Phone: 204-957-SAFE  (7233)
Toll-free: 1-855-957-SAFE (7233)
www.manitoba.ca/labour/safety/

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