Asbestos roof tiles pose health risk in southwestern Taiwan

台灣西南部石棉屋瓦危害健康

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Chiayi County officials announced Tuesday they are distributing free asbestos protection kits to residents in nine cities and townships, after coastal roof tiles were damaged by Typhoon Danas.

Asbestos is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen. Inhalation of airborne fibers can cause lung scarring and breathing difficulties. Widely used in Taiwan during the 1980s for its fireproof and heat-resistant properties, asbestos was a common material in roofing tiles, per CNA.

Residents cleaning up debris from the typhoon are encouraged to contact local sanitation teams to receive a free protection kit, which includes three N95 masks, goggles, and protective gloves. They are also advised to follow safety procedures — such as spraying tiles with water to prevent dust and avoiding any action that could cause asbestos fibers to disperse.

The Chiayi County Government urged the public to exercise extreme caution, especially when handling broken asbestos tiles. Inhaling asbestos dust can be harmful even in small amounts.

Workers should wear full protective gear — including N95 masks, goggles, gloves, protective footwear, and clothing — and set up warning signs and cordoned-off areas to keep unauthorized individuals away from the site.