Asbestos Awareness Week opens today

Asbestos Awareness Week has opened today with the theme of "Asbestos Dust Kills', with statistics revealing that Australia has the highest incidence of mesothelioma in the world.

More than 500 Australians contract mesothelioma every year and up to 18,000 Australians are likely to die from it by 2020.

The event will run from 20 to 24 November and is being coordinated by the Victorian Trades Hall Council (VTHC) and the Asbestos Diseases Society of Victoria (ADSVIC).

VTHC secretary, Brian Boyd said the week is a reminder of the impact of asbestos dust both in the workplace and community. "Asbestos dust kills. That is our campaign slogan and reflects our focus, with ADSVIC. We are reminding workers and community members that all forms of asbestos, including asbestos dust, can kill."

As part of the week's activities, ADSVIC is holding a phone-in for members of the community who may have questions or concerns about asbestos on Wednesday 22 November.

Individuals can call ADSVIC on 1300 659 226 between 9.30 and 12.30 with their questions.

A commemorative service will pay tribute to people whose lives have been touched by asbestos-related disease and include a children's choir and flower laying ceremony.

The service will be held at Edge Theatre, Federation Square at 11.00 on Thursday 23 November.