The Illawarra's governing health organisation says it has been active in removing asbestos from the region's hospitals, amid claims workers and patients remain at risk of exposure.
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The claims were prompted by a revelation there are major asbestos dangers at Sydney's Westmead Hospital.
Lawyer and dust diseases specialist Tanya Segelov said there was "an urgent need" to address ongoing asbestos risks in a number of public buildings.
"Any hospital built before the mid-1980s will contain asbestos, in service tunnels, fire-proofing, laundries, insulation, fire doors and many other areas," Ms Segelov said.
"Because of the age of many of these buildings, these asbestos products are deteriorating, releasing fibres into the air and potentially exposing staff and patients as they move through parts of the hospital."
Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District (ISLHD) said it had an asbestos register for all hospitals under its jurisdiction, but didn't say whether fibres were a concern at any particular facility.
"A yearly review of all hospitals is conducted in accordance with the requirements of the register," an ISLHD spokeswoman said.
"The LHD has clear protocols to continually review the risk associated with any hazardous materials.
"The LHD has been active in the appropriate removal of asbestos in our hospitals over past years," she said.