Safety from asbestos exposure in Kosovo

Asbestos minerals have very favourable technical properties. They were used in almost all branches of trade and industry. Today they are well recognized as health hazardous materials, and their use is highly regulated by both OSHA and EPA. Since 2005 the use of asbestos is prohibited in Europe. Regulations to control occupational exposure to asbestos in Europe and USA were introduced since 1931, while in Kosovo until now there is a huge gap in legislation framework related to this issue. Most of industrial complexes and buildings in Kosovo are constructed 50-60 years ago, and in that time materials containing asbestos were used in a high range. After the last war, most of industrial buildings were destroyed, leaving everywhere different kind of hazardous construction and other types of waste, for which civilians were not aware. Although in other neighbour countries this material was prohibited, new buildings constructed after war continued to use materials which contain asbestos, for different purposes. The Government of Kosovo was very slow on adapting and preparing specific Laws, Rules and Regulations to restrict and regulate the use of asbestos. Fulfilment of the Legislation gap with adequate technical rules and regulations for asbestos treatment, removal, dumping and asbestos waste is very critical for the industry, employees, and the citizens of Kosovo, in general. This paper identifies the gaps on the legislation framework in Kosovo, treatment of asbestos exposure, and health and safety issues, compared to European and German Standards and legislation. Also, describes the methods and recommendations that came out from the project for asbestos inventory on Kosovo Energy Corporation, which can serve as an example for further development of specific regulations related to this issue.