Interesting comments from everyone. In my opinion, it is not primarily a state of denial, it is also a state of ignorance for some and a lack of education for others. I agree that trainees starting work for the first time should be better educated in regard to Asbestos Awareness especially as it is New Zealand's number one work-related killer. Whilst HSWA regulations state that workers should have training in regards to relevant risks they will encounter in the workplace I think the guidance in the new upcoming Asbestos ACOP (currently under review) should specifically state that all workers working in buildings built on or before the year 2000 should have mandatory Asbestos Awareness training. Education is paramount to prevent death from asbestos-related diseases as well as bigger fines for companies that do not adhere to asbestos legislation.