Prevalence and Level of Occupational Exposure to Asbestos in Canada in 2016.

This article focuses on updating the prevalence and level of occupational asbestos exposure in Canada from 2006 to 2016 using CAREX Canada, a national carcinogen exposure surveillance program. The study estimates that approximately 235,000 Canadian workers, predominantly male, are exposed to asbestos, mainly in the construction sector and related occupations such as carpenters and trades helpers. Exposure levels are mostly low to moderate, with only 5% of workers in high-exposure categories, reflecting a shift from historic high-level exposures in mining and manufacturing to current exposures linked to maintenance and remediation of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in older buildings. The findings highlight ongoing occupational risks despite Canada's 2018 asbestos ban and underscore the need for improved asbestos management, worker awareness, and further research on current exposure levels to support cancer prevention efforts.