[BITList] 2 Tugs built in China.

[Michael Feltham]

Concern for tug workers after asbestos found on two boats 
There is concern tug workers in the Port of Newcastle have been put at serious risk after asbestos was found on two imported tug boats. The Maritime Union says the material has been found above safe levels on the Chinese-built Svitzer tugs, WARRUNDA and WARREGO, despite both being issued with asbestos-free certificates. Union organiser Glenn Williams said there is great concern for the safety of his members."Our members all need to be tested, obviously, put onto an asbestos register," he said."The vessels have been quarantined and are being worked on now to remove all asbestos."But we'll be seeking some pretty good assurances that it is all gone before we do go back on board them." 
Mr Williams said of major concern is that both tugs were issued with asbestos-free certificates."Very concerning for us, our members have been exposed, or potentially exposed to asbestos," he said."What we understood to be an asbestos-free certificate, issued for both tugs, is in fact false and there's some 950-odd instances of asbestos on the vessel. "So very concerning for us. 
"People's lives have been put at risk by this company." Svitzer general manager James Mather said both tugs underwent a series of tests before coming to Newcastle, and they will not be used until they are fully cleared of the material. He is hopeful the exposure risk is minimal."Well, lots of our employees have been on board those vessels myself included," he said."But so far we haven't had any air-borne testing come back to indicate asbestos in the atmosphere."So based on the advice we've received, the risk of exposure is negligible." Source : abc-net 
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