Asbestos in Sri Lanka: A Look at Usage, Bans, and Alternatives

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, has been used in various construction applications for decades due to its affordability and fire-resistant properties. However, concerns regarding the health risks associated with asbestos exposure have led to a global movement towards its phase-out. Sri Lanka, a developing nation with a long history of using asbestos, has been navigating this transition, aiming to balance economic growth with public health safety.

History of Asbestos Use in Sri Lanka

The use of asbestos in Sri Lanka dates back several decades, primarily for its applications in building materials. Asbestos sheets were widely utilized for roofing, wall cladding, and other construction purposes. The popularity of asbestos products stemmed from their affordability, durability, and fire-resistant properties, making them a cost-effective solution for a range of construction projects.

Sri Lanka's construction industry relied heavily on asbestos sheets, with numerous manufacturers and suppliers offering a wide range of products, including corrugated sheets, flat sheets, and tiles. The popularity of asbestos sheet in Sri Lanka can be evidenced by the numerous listings available on online marketplaces like ikman.lk, where individuals and businesses can find various options for asbestos sheets at different price points. The widespread availability of asbestos sheets throughout the country highlights its historical significance in Sri Lanka's building industry.

Health Risks Associated with Asbestos

Despite the apparent benefits of asbestos, its use has been linked to serious health hazards. Asbestos fibers, when inhaled, can lodge in the lungs, causing inflammation and damage. This prolonged exposure can lead to various diseases, including:

Asbestosis: A debilitating lung disease characterized by scarring and stiffening of the lungs.
Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer of the lining of the lungs and chest.
Lung cancer: Asbestos exposure increases the risk of developing lung cancer.

These health risks have prompted global initiatives to restrict asbestos use and prioritize safer alternatives. The World Health Organization classifies asbestos as a Group 1 carcinogen, meaning it is undeniably carcinogenic to humans.

The Asbestos Ban in Sri Lanka

Recognizing the health risks associated with asbestos, Sri Lanka has taken steps towards phasing out its use. In 2018, the government of Sri Lanka enacted a ban on the import and production of asbestos. This decision reflected a growing awareness of the detrimental effects of asbestos on public health.

While the ban significantly reduced asbestos production in Sri Lanka, the availability of previously imported asbestos products continues to pose challenges. The government is actively promoting the use of alternative materials and implementing measures to manage existing asbestos stockpiles safely.

Challenges and Opportunities for Sri Lanka

The transition away from asbestos presents both challenges and opportunities for Sri Lanka.

Challenges:

Availability and Cost of Alternatives: Finding suitable and affordable alternatives to asbestos can be challenging. While safer options are available, their cost can be higher, posing difficulties for cost-conscious construction projects.
Awareness and Education: Promoting awareness and educating stakeholders about the health risks of asbestos and the benefits of using safer alternatives is crucial. This requires ongoing efforts to educate the public, builders, and construction professionals.
Managing Existing Stockpiles: Safely managing existing stockpiles of asbestos products and ensuring their responsible disposal is critical. This involves implementing proper protocols for handling, storage, and removal of asbestos materials.

Opportunities:

Promoting Green Building Practices: The transition away from asbestos presents an opportunity to promote green building practices, using sustainable and environmentally friendly materials.
Developing Local Industries: The demand for alternative materials can stimulate the development of local industries specializing in the production and supply of asbestos-free building products.
Improving Public Health: By phasing out asbestos, Sri Lanka can protect public health and reduce the incidence of asbestos-related diseases.

Alternatives to Asbestos

Several asbestos-free materials offer comparable properties and provide safer alternatives for construction applications. These include:

Fiber Cement Sheets: These sheets are made from a blend of cement, cellulose fibers, and other additives. They offer durability, fire resistance, and are considered a safe alternative to asbestos sheets.
Metal Roofing: Metal roofing materials, such as steel and aluminum, provide excellent durability, weather resistance, and are increasingly popular as alternatives to asbestos roofing.
Polycarbonate Sheets: These lightweight and transparent sheets offer excellent light transmission and are often used for roofing and skylights. They are durable, impact-resistant, and do not contain asbestos.
Glass Reinforced Plastic Sheets: GRP sheets are strong, lightweight, and resistant to corrosion. They are suitable for various applications, including roofing, cladding, and tank linings.

The transition away from asbestos in Sri Lanka represents a significant step towards a safer and more sustainable future. By actively promoting the use of asbestos-free alternatives, implementing responsible asbestos management practices, and educating stakeholders about the health risks, Sri Lanka can effectively mitigate the risks associated with asbestos and build a healthier environment for its citizens.