The hidden danger of asbestos in disaster situations: reflections for future responses

Abstract

Although the use of asbestos was banned in Brazil in 2017, there remains a significant legacy of this material in the country, including in areas vulnerable to disasters. In May 2024, an unprecedented flood hit 484 municipalities in Rio Grande do Sul, causing damage to buildings and structures that possibly contained asbestos, found in materials such as roofing tiles and water tanks. During disasters, both workers and the general population may be exposed to asbestos, with the risk of developing related diseases such as asbestosis and lung cancer. The potential for environmental and occupational contamination, as well as public health impacts arising from extreme climatic events, combined with the increasing frequency and intensity of disasters, makes it essential to prioritize the development of a national asbestos management plan. This plan should include measures for prevention, safe identification, and removal of materials containing asbestos, as well as training and the provision of protective equipment for workers and residents, with a focus on vulnerable areas such as urban hillside regions and locations with a history of flooding. The establishment of guidelines and awareness-raising initiatives is also necessary to reduce asbestos exposure during disaster situations.