CHINA PRODUCTION

Chinese asbestos production begun in the early '50s (20th century).

In the People's Republic of China rapid industrialization and economic growth have generated an almost unquenchable thirst for asbestos.

China is one of seven countries which has significant reserves of asbestos, ranked third, behind Russia and Canada. The main reserves are concentrated in the western Chinese provinces (Gansu, Qinghai and Xinjiang).

China host 31 mines, large or middle size. Among them, 11 have significant reserves.

Today China is ranked second in the production of chrysotile asbestos. There are over 3 000 asbestos products in 1 250000 hina, classified into 5 types (insulation, sealing, brake, construction (asbestos cement) and special products).

In 2008, Chinese asbestos production was of 410 000 tons. Importation sum up at a level of 210 000 tonnes.

In 2009 domestic consumption was about 450 000 tonnes.

The majority of asbestos goes into the production of asbestos-cement building materials with the remainder being used for friction products, textiles and insulation products.

POpulation exposed to asbestos IN CHINA

WORKING POPULATION

120 000 workers in 31 asbestos mines

1 250 000 workers in the chrysotile industrial production

8 000 000 workers in manufacture hosting a high level of asbestos

OTHER POPULATION

80 000 000 are exposed to asbestos in their house/apartment

DESEASE

In 2008, 18 000 Chinese died of lung cancer due to asbestos fibers absorption.

1 millions are suffering from inhalation desease.

In 2015, 150 000 could pass away.

SITUATION

Limited capital and human resources, lower educational levels, poor regulation, and a great lack of awareness of occupational health and safety on the part of both owners and workers.

Workers in asbestos industries are more likely to be exposed to higher levels of dust without necessary protective measures. In most cases, these workers have little access to both occupational medical care and primary health care."

CHINA MAIN SAFETY ISSUE

COMMISSION OF THE ASBESTOS INDUSTRY

In China, the asbestos industry is represented by the Committee of the Asbestos Industry which is managed under the leadership of the Chinese Non-Metallic Minerals Association (founded in 1987, with 16 committees).

Its tasks include: coaching and training, international cooperation, consultation, missions.

Asbestos China's policy

Prohibition of amphibole. (jìn lìng)
Limit and control the dust in the chrysotile mines

Limit and control the dust in the workplace of the factories manufacturing products

Limit and control the dust in the workplace of the Shipbreaking Industry (domestic or imported)