Ontario Construction News staff writer
WINNIPEG – The Manitoba government is introducing tougher asbestos safety rules aimed at reducing exposure to the cancer-causing material responsible for more occupational deaths in the province than any other hazard, Labour and Immigration Minister Malaya Marcelino announced in November.
“The safety of Manitobans is always our top priority, and they told us they wanted clearer rules and stronger protections for asbestos work — we listened,” Marcelino said in a statement. “These updates will help keep workers safe by ensuring asbestos work is done by trained, certified professionals and with clear responsibilities for employers and building owners.”
Asbestos, commonly found in insulation, floor tiles and other materials in older buildings, poses significant health risks when disturbed and released into the air. While existing provincial rules require basic training, safety measures and inventories of asbestos-containing materials, officials say the amendments go further by clarifying responsibilities and strengthening oversight.
Key changes include mandatory training and certification for anyone performing asbestos work, a new employer registration system allowing Manitobans to verify qualified contractors, clearer duties for employers and building owners, and enhanced powers for safety officers to confirm work is being done safely.
“Having stronger protection against asbestos is literally a life-and-death issue for the Manitobans whose work brings them into contact with it,” said Kevin Rebeck, president of the Manitoba Federation of Labour. “Asbestos is Manitoba’s number one occupational killer and far too many lives have been cut short by this dangerous substance.”
The Workplace Safety and Health Review Committee — which includes workers, employers and safety specialists — advised on the amendments and reached consensus that clearer, stronger rules were needed.
SAFE Work Manitoba also welcomed the move. “Asbestos safety is critically important in Manitoba,” said Dave Kramer, vice-president of the organization, noting that endorsed training programs will help ensure workers receive credible, consistent instruction.
Most of the new rules take effect once the regulation is formally registered. Requirements for worker certification and employer registration take effect June 1, 2027, giving workplaces time to transition.
