Union News

Unions NSW has welcomed Channel Nine's decision to broadcast warnings about the dangers of asbestos on its home renovation program, The Block and called on the other TV networks to follow suit.

The NSW trade union movement and the Asbestos Diseases Foundation of Australia have been campaigning for asbestos danger warnings to be broadcast on home renovation programs for the last six months.

Unions NSW Secretary Mark Lennon said Channel Nine's decision was appropriate, though overdue.

"There is no safe level of exposure to asbestos, and Channel Nine's decision is crucially important," Mr Lennon said.

"There's now serious pressure on the other networks to do the responsible thing and also broadcast warnings about asbestos. These programs are wildly popular but need to take into account their social responsibility."

Mr Lennon acknowledged the important role of Tasmanian Senator Lisa Singh who raised the issue in federal Parliament yesterday, helping to secure Channel Nine’s response.

Mr Lennon also acknowledged 2UE Drive host, Paul Murray who kept the issue of asbestos warnings on home renovation programs alive.

More than 700 people die from mesothelioma each year, and any house built up until the mid 1980s could contain asbestos.

"The message for home renovators is to exercise caution and ALWAYS consult the State WorkCover authority about the risk of asbestos," Mr Lennon said.

"Too many families have been touched by the tragedy of asbestos related illness and the last we need is a second wave of asbestos related illness."