Can you recognize asbestos-related
risks at home and at work?
Asbestos is still present in many buildings, but actions taken today can reduce or even eliminate exposure to this hazard. Asbestos was used in many common building materials from the 1950s to 1990 because of its strong fibres and resistance to fire. When asbestos is disturbed, for example, during renovations, tiny fibres are released into the air. Once inhaled, asbestos fibres can cause life-threatening lung diseases such as lung cancer, asbestosis and mesothelioma. The only way to find out if a material contains asbestos is to have it tested at a qualified laboratory.
Common asbestos-containing materials
Built-up roofing and felts, roof shingles and siding
Vermiculite insulation, ceiling tiles and coatings
Popcorn ceilings
Drywall and cement sheets
Plaster, putties and caulking
Electrical switchboard panels
Plumbing insulation
Pipe and duct coverings
Thermal boiler and fireplace insulations
Vinyl sheet flooring, floor levelling compound, floor tiles
Know the risks
47%
Of work-related deaths were the result
of occupational diseases in 2020.
3,000+
Building materials and other products
contained asbestos before 1990.
Protect yourself and others with a free, 60-minute online course
Created by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety and the Saskatchewan Construction Safety Association,
the Saskatchewan Asbestos Awareness: Understanding the Risk e-course is designed to help you recognize and manage
asbestos-related risks at home and in the workplace.
Get expert tips and advice
for safe asbestos
handling and removal
Hiring an asbestos abatement company, and not doing it
yourself, is the safest decision when it comes to removing
asbestos from any residential, commercial or public building.
Learn what to do when asbestos is found to prevent it from
becoming an airborne hazard.
Explore more asbestos resources
from WorkSafe Saskatchewan
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