South Korea to Ban Asbestos

February 5, 2007 - The Korea Times reports that “the manufacture, import and use of asbestos will be banned beginning in 2009 as it causes severe health problems such as cancer when inhaled,” the South Korean Ministry of Labor announced last week.

Under the plan, the ministry will restrict the use of products that include asbestos by means of a step-by-step process until 2008, while examining possible replacements, and will impose the total ban by 2009.  Specifics of the plan have not been finalized at this point. 

Laws will also be in effect that will require asbestos removal companies to be licensed with the federal government before accepting any projects. 

The crackdown on the substance follows reports that subway passengers are exposed to asbestos from the ceilings and platforms at numerous stations and that unlicensed companies have been involved in the removal of asbestos from commercial buildings and homes throughout the country.