ON JANUARY 20, 2025, the event took place at the Capitol, in Rome “ASBESTOS AND URANIUM: SOME WORKPLACE SAFETY FOR OUR MEN IN UNIFORM”. EXPERTS, VICTIMS AND INSTITUTIONS DISCUSSED RISKS, PREVENTION AND PROTECTION FOR WORKERS EXPOSED TO ASBESTOS AND DEFINED URANIUM
The main purpose of the conference “Asbestos and uranium: what safety at work for our men in uniform”organized by the National Asbestos Observatory, ONA, aimed to raise awareness among public opinion and the competent authorities of the devastating consequences of these toxic substances, which continue to endanger the lives of many, especially those who serve in divisions .
Dignity of work and protection of workers’ health
The work focused on the dignity of work and the protection of workers’ health, with a particular focus on the military, considering not only men in uniform, but also civilians and employees. The importance of expanding the protection that case law and the Council of State offer to soldiers is strongly reiterated. These men and women, who are committed to serving their country, face significant health risks from exposure to hazardous substances, such asdepleted uranium. It is emphasized that, in the presence of a “scientific uncertainty”, It is difficult to establish an immediate and consolidated causal link, but this should not become an excuse to neglect institutional responsibilities.
Depleted uranium, used in projectiles during the Balkan conflicts, has led to serious health consequences for soldiers. In addition to the effects of nanoparticles, heavy metals and radiation, other risk factors are also highlighted, such as contamination of food and soldiers’ living spaces. The lack of consolidated scientific literature at the time of the events does not eliminate the need to act to protect the military and prevent further damage. General causality, which scientifically explains the harm, should guide decisions even in the absence of absolute evidence.
“The history of asbestos is an ancient history” Ezio Bonanni
As a member of the Asbestos Committee of the Ministry of the Environment, lawyer. Ezio Bonanni, president of the National Asbestos Observatory, ONA, says there is no need to wait for a criminal trial before intervening. The legal profession must play a proactive role, ensuring compliance with workplace safety regulations and preventing hazardous exposure. If employees are only protected after illnesses or accidents have occurred, this means that action must be taken too late. Safety at work is not a matter of conflict between employees and employers, but a cultural and social problem that requires a paradigm shift.
Asbestos itself is an emblematic case. Although awareness of its danger dates back to at least 1907, with judgments demonstrating its harmfulness to human health, its use increased dramatically after World War II. In 1941, a Milanese company was convicted of asbestosis, but only after the death of the employee involved. Even with the 1992 law, which marked an important step towards the ban on asbestos in Italy, the problem of an institutional culture that focuses more on compensation than on prevention remains.
“The safety culture must be protected. Such as the culture of respect for life” Paola Vagliantei
Safety at work is enshrined in the Italian Constitution, which turned 75 years old in 2023, and in Legislative Decree 81 of 2008, which requires healthy and safe workplaces. However, culturally there is still a lack of respect for these norms. Courses and training are not enough if a safety culture is not spread. Fortunately, initiatives like that of MP Valter Rizzetti are bringing the issue of workplace safety to schools. This education, which promotes respect for life and legality, is fundamental to building a more conscious society.
“The continued shaky position of the judiciary” Gaetano Veneto
Another crucial point of the speech concerns the contradictions in the Italian legal system. The interpretation of the laws varies depending on the magistrate involved, creating differences in the protection of citizens’ rights. This inconsistent approach undermines confidence in justice and hinders the realization of authentic democracy and human dignity. We need a legal system that guarantees certainty and uniformity, allowing workers to feel protected regardless of the circumstances.
Prevention, education and information
In conclusion, workplace safety and health protection must become absolute priorities. It is not just a matter of respecting the laws, but of promoting a deep cultural change involving institutions, companies and citizens. Prevention must replace compensation as the main goal, while education and information must form the basis of a fairer and more aware society.
Speakers:
Paola Vegliantei, president of the Academy of Legality, the lawyer Ezio Bonanni, president of the ONA, Gaetano Veneto, president of the Centro Studi Diritto dei Lavori, Melissa Trombetta, criminologist and advisor of the ONA, Sergio Cabigiosu, lieutenant of the Alpine Infantry, moderated by Mediaset journalist Valentina Renzopaoli.
The recording of the conference