Global Asbestos Awareness Week: Honoring the Legacy of Howard Willems

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News Summary

This week highlights the importance of asbestos awareness and commemorates Howard Willems, the advocate behind Saskatchewan’s Asbestos Registry.

Global Asbestos Awareness Week: Honoring the Legacy of Howard Willems

As the first week of April comes around, it is pivotal to observe Global Asbestos Awareness Week, a time dedicated to educating the public about the dangers of asbestos exposure. This year holds even more significance as it marks a decade since Saskatchewan established its first mandatory Asbestos Registry, known as Howard’s Law. This initiative stands as a solemn tribute to Howard Willems, a food inspector who tragically succumbed to mesothelioma at the age of 59.

The Creation of Howard’s Law

The story behind Howard’s Law is one that reflects both personal loss and public health advocacy. Howard Willems dedicated his life to the food industry, inspecting various dairy and honey facilities on behalf of the federal government. Throughout his career, he encountered numerous buildings that contained asbestos, especially during renovation projects. Recognizing the potential health risks associated with these exposures, Willems advocated for the creation of an asbestos registry to inform workers and the general public of the dangers lurking in these facilities.

The Asbestos Registry was officially established in 2013, just a year after Willems passed away. Since then, it has played an essential role in informing the people about buildings known to contain asbestos. By the end of December 2024, this essential resource will have registered over 5,200 facilities across the province, reinforcing the commitment of the Government of Saskatchewan to ensure public safety.

Understanding the Risks of Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous material that was widely used in construction until the late 1990s. Its resilience to heat and fire made it an attractive choice for builders. However, disturbing asbestos can release tiny fibers into the air, which pose significant health risks when inhaled. These asbestos fibers can become trapped in the lungs, leading to severe health conditions including asbestosis, lung cancer, and particularly the aggressive cancer known as mesothelioma.

It is crucial to note that, while there are currently no active listings in the asbestos registry, the importance of awareness regarding potential risks associated with public and publicly owned buildings is highlighted throughout Global Asbestos Awareness Week. The registry not only lists these facilities but also aims to educate the public and workers on the importance of safe practices.

The Government’s Commitment

The Saskatchewan government is committed to enhancing awareness surrounding asbestos-related diseases. In line with this objective, funding of $230,000 was allocated in the 2024-25 Provincial Budget for updating the existing asbestos registry. The updated registry, which was launched in February of this year, is completely searchable for public access, empowering citizens to identify potential asbestos-containing structures in their surroundings.

For example, in Estevan, a total of 43 buildings are registered in the asbestos registry, reminding local communities of the presence of this hazardous substance. Labour Relations and Workplace Safety Minister Jim Reiter stresses that increasing awareness is essential for preventing diseases related to asbestos exposure.

Looking Ahead

As Global Asbestos Awareness Week unfolds, it serves as a vital reminder of the ongoing battle against the dangers posed by asbestos. The legacy of Howard Willems continues to live on through initiatives like the asbestos registry, safeguarding the health of countless individuals throughout Saskatchewan. As we advance, continued efforts in education, advocacy, and reform will be necessary to protect the public from the hazardous effects of asbestos.

For further information, interested parties can access the Asbestos Registry online at saskatchewan.ca, aiding in the promotion of a safer environment for all. Together, we honor those lost to asbestos-related diseases and commit ourselves to a future free from their dangers.