On May 10, 2025, work was halted at a demolition site where asbestos-containing roof panels were presumably being removed. The halt was executed by the Directorate of Supervision & Enforcement of the Public Body Bonaire (OLB) and is further being addressed and investigated by the Labor Inspection of the RCN unit for Social Affairs and Employment (SZW).
The situation demonstrates how important it is to handle materials that may contain asbestos with care. It is crucial that roof panels or other materials suspected of containing asbestos are always tested by an expert first to determine whether they are indeed asbestos-containing. Improper handling of asbestos can pose serious health risks to workers and residents.
Legal Obligations When Dealing with Asbestos
The Occupational Safety Decision IV Caribbean Netherlands includes clear rules for working with asbestos. Employers must:
1. Investigate whether there is asbestos before they start working (Article 2.3);
Before any work is done on a building or structure, the employer must first check for the presence of asbestos. This is done at the locations where demolition or renovation will take place.
2. Create a work plan and notify the supervisor in time (Article 2.4);
If it turns out that there is asbestos, the employer must draw up a clear work plan. This plan outlines how the work will be carried out, what measures will be taken to work safely, and who will be involved. This plan must be submitted to the Labor Inspection of the RCN unit SZW at least two weeks in advance.
3. Make a report after the work is completed (Article 2.5).
Once the work is finished, the employer must make a report on how it went. The Labor Inspection uses this to check whether everything was done according to the rules. The report must be kept for at least two years.
Working Together for a Safe Workplace
Both employers and individuals can approach the Labor Inspection with questions or if they want advice on safe working. This also applies to situations involving asbestos. By obtaining information in a timely manner and following the correct steps, dangerous situations can be prevented.
Those who do not comply with the rules risk not only a fine or work stoppage but also endanger the health of people.
For more information about the rules regarding working with asbestos, you can visit the website of RCN or contact the Labor Inspection Department of SZW at arbeidsinspectie@rijksdienstcn.com.