Six children employed by LM Multiservices in illegal asbestos work in Sønderborg

Six children aged 12 to 16 were employed by LM Multiservices, a company accused of hiring minors to perform illegal work involving hazardous asbestos materials. Reports indicate that the children worked without necessary protective gear and, according to the mayor of Odsherred Municipality, Karina Vincentz, they worked at night.

On September 20, the Danish Working Environment Authority inspected the site in Sønderborg where the minors were employed, resulting in 14 immediate orders for improvements due to serious safety violations. The inspection revealed visible asbestos debris around the construction site, which had been left uncontained. Additionally, asbestos sheets stored on pallets were not properly packaged and lacked required labeling.

Furthermore, workers were not provided with adequate fall protection measures while working on the roof. The report noted that no personal protective equipment was used during the asbestos removal process. Employees had reportedly demolished a 550-square-meter barn without any safeguards against asbestos dust exposure.

The Working Environment Authority also highlighted a lack of essential facilities, such as changing rooms and showers, which are necessary for workers handling asbestos. The overall assessment determined that the company’s knowledge of asbestos-related safety practices was severely lacking.

Moreover, workers were allowed to operate on the roof without fall prevention measures, with a drop of approximately 2.8 meters. Nearby residents and the Working Environment Authority were not informed about the ongoing asbestos demolition work. Immediate orders were issued to secure the work area to restrict access, but the company failed to post necessary warning signs indicating asbestos work was in progress. Additionally, the company did not report the asbestos-related activities to the authorities, as mandated.