Asbestos Management in Bangladesh's Shipbreaking Industry: Challenges, Compliance, and Pathways to Legal Reform

Abstract: Asbestos exposure remains a substantial health hazard for workers in the shipbreaking sector of South Asia despite global legal regulations banning its utilization in new commercial vessels. This article analyzes the legal and regulatory framework currently overseeing asbestos management in the shipbreaking industry, including compliance deficiencies and enforcement obstacles in Bangladesh that leads worldwide ship dismantling. The study used a comparative research methodology to critically examine relevant international conventions, including the Hong Kong International Convention and Basel-Rotterdam-Stockholm (BRS) Conventions, popularly known as the Chemicals and Waste Conventions or the triple Conventions and their incorporation into domestic legal frameworks of Bangladesh. Examining these international standards and current practices in the jurisdiction mentioned will reveal regulatory deficiencies. The article advocates for implementable legal reforms to bolster compliance, elevate occupational health standards, and encourage sustainable practices within the business via efficient legal and policy measures.