Duale orders NEMA to remove asbestos roofing within three months

Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has directed the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) to remove asbestos roofing from schools and private facilities within three months.

Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals of thin, durable fibres.

 It was commonly used in building materials for insulation and fireproofing because of its heat resistance and strength.

However, asbestos can pose serious health risks, including lung cancer, when its fibres are inhaled.

Duale announced the directive during a visit to NEMA headquarters in Nairobi on Wednesday, August 28 citing public health concerns.

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He said removing asbestos is crucial for ensuring public health safety.

Duale instructed public institutions with asbestos roofing to follow NEMA guidelines for removal and disposal.

NEMA first developed national guidelines for the safe management and disposal of asbestos in 2011, which were revised in 2013.

 The guidelines were produced with input from agencies such as the Ministry of Health, the Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services, and the former City Council of Nairobi.

They include measures like securing the site during removal to prevent unauthorised access and wetting the asbestos sheets before removal.

The directive aligns with NEMA's ongoing efforts to update environmental data and improve compliance.