The shipbuilding industry has long used asbestos for its heat resistance and versatility. However, due to the serious health risks associated with asbestos exposure, both Italy and the international community have banned its use. Despite this, the asbestos emergency persists due to the long latency period of asbestos-related diseases. Until the 1980s, asbestos was a primary element used in shipyards, but its dangers became evident later on, as asbestos fibers released into the air were linked to diseases such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer.
Ban on asbestos use in Italy:
Italian law 257/1992 imposed an absolute ban on asbestos use in all production sectors, including naval construction. However, data shows that there have been over 2000 cases of mesothelioma among workers in the maritime transport, shipyard, and military defense sectors since 1993, nearly half of which involve naval personnel. Despite the ban, asbestos has been detected on military ships, requiring continuous decontamination to ensure the safety of the personnel.
Asbestos still present on ships:
Although many European shipyards, including those in Italy, have abandoned asbestos use, some non-European Union countries still utilize it. The Navy also still owns ships produced before the international ban, and asbestos is still present on these vessels. The Navy has recognized the need for ongoing asbestos decontamination in the 2020-2030 decade, with an estimated cost of 54 million euros.
Safe asbestos removal on ships:
Asbestos decontamination on vessels must be carried out by specialized companies that follow strict protocols to ensure the safety of workers and the environment. Our company operates both nationally and internationally and adheres to all rigorous legislative requirements for asbestos removal.
Contact us to request an inspection of a potentially contaminated site.
Request a free quote for asbestos decontamination on ships:
Despite the ban on asbestos use, its presence persists, especially on ships produced before international regulations were in place. Relying on a specialized company like ours ensures safe and effective removal of asbestos present on ships, contributing to the preservation of the health of those working on board and the marine ecosystem. Contact us to request an inspection and ensure full compliance with safety regulations.
What we offer:
- Thorough inspections
- Remediation of artifacts containing asbestos
- Replacement of asbestos products with new compliant elements
- Remediation of contaminated sites
- Sampling services for air monitoring
- Release of the copy of the documentation sent to the proposed bodies
- Transportation and sending for disposal
- Issuing a copy of the form certifying that the waste has been disposed of in an authorized facility
