Policy paper on the environmentally sound management of Asbestos waste in Mauritius

Following concern raised by different stakeholders, the Ministry of Health & Quality of life commissioned a study to assess the impacts of the presence of asbestos in Mauritius and to make recommendations thereon. The study was carried out by Mr. John Addison from the United Kingdom. He made a series of recommendations regarding handling and disposal among others.

Consequently, a Technical Committee, comprising of various authorities, including Ministry of Environment was set up at Ministry of Health and Quality of Life to discuss on the contents of Addison’s report so as to devise an action plan for the implementation of the recommendations of the expert report for the short, medium and long terms period.

Asbestos had been listed as a prohibited material in the Dangerous Chemicals Control (DCC) Act and the DCC Board is monitoring the import of this product.

As asbestos has been widely applied in the local context, it has been found imperative to develop a policy on the issue. As per Environment Protection (Standards for hazardous wastes) Regulations 2001, asbestos is classified as a hazardous waste and its storage, control, transport and disposal is regulated by the Ministry of Local Government.

In light of the recommendations of the Addison’s report, Ministry of Environment was entrusted the task of preparing a policy regarding the management of asbestos and asbestos-containing wastes in a manner, which will safeguard human health and the environment. Relevant comments from different stakeholders have been incorporated in this Final Policy Paper.

The policy proposes the management options for asbestos waste, including waste minimization. It has evaluated the different modes of disposal for all sectors and has provided recommendations for the environmentally sound disposal of asbestos in line with regulations in force.

Regulations on the Prohibition of amphiboles and raw asbestos at Work) made under the occupational safety ,health and welfare act 1988, are in force since 2004.

Link to Guidelines on Safety and Health when using asbestos

Click here to access the National Action Plan on Asbestos >>

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