Asbestos Safety Guidelines

Asbestos is a naturally occurring silicate material that has been widely used in industries like manufacturing and construction due to its unique physical properties. However, despite its usefulness, exposure to asbestos poses significant health risks. It is essential to have clear guidelines for the safe handling and management of asbestos, to reduce the risk of exposure. This includes understanding key factors such as potential health risks, adhering to the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, and following general safety procedures. These measures are vital for ensuring safety in all applications involving asbestos.

Risk factors

Asbestos fibres are tiny, lightweight, and too small to be seen with the naked eye. The danger occurs when these fibres are disturbed or damaged, allowing them to become airborne. When inhaled, they can get trapped in the lungs, and if swallowed, they may accumulate in the digestive system. Some situations that can release asbestos fibres into the air include:

  • Manufacturing of asbestos containing products

  • Demolition of older buildings

  • Remodelling, repairing or upgrading buildings

  • Deterioration of older building and materials

  • Clean up after natural disasters

Effective controls, such as wearing PPE, including masks and gloves, along with clear asbestos handling guidelines, can significantly reduce the health risks for those who may be exposed to asbestos.

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012

These regulations are made to protect employees from asbestos exposure, it captures the following:

  • Monitoring of asbestos fibres if it’s airborne, and if detected necessary precaution should be taken. If the site is construction, then regular monitoring and assessment should be done by a competent person or an asbestos specialist.

  • The Site must be separated with barricade tape (caution tape), and warning signs should be provided around the affected area.

  • Prohibiting smoking, eating or drinking in the affected area.

  • Proper PPE kit must be provided and used to prevent exposure.

  • Separate decontamination areas must be provided.

  • Proper hygiene practices should be followed in the premises including a designated place for meal.

  • Periodic training requirement depending upon the workplace exposure and classification.

  • Mandatory training for all the workers dealing in asbestos related work including the housekeeping.

  • A continuous asbestos air monitoring system should be in place to provide regular asbestos level within the air.

  • Periodic medical examination for the workers working in affected area.

General safety rules for asbestos

  • Avoid activities such as sanding, drilling, cutting or grinding for the materials that may contain asbestos.

  • Stay out of attics and crawlspaces that may have the potential for asbestos dust.

  • Do not dust sweep or vacuum debris that may contain asbestos.

  • Do not put screws nails or other objects into asbestos ceiling or wall plasters.

  • Never use a power stripper on flooring that may contain asbestos.

  • Never sand or try to level asbestos flooring.

  • Report any damaged areas of building or any damaged building to the supervisor.

Wrapping Up

Safe asbestos handling requires a proactive approach to minimise its risks. As a result, asbestos consultants have developed detailed safety guidelines for everyday tasks, along with strong governance practices, to manage and control the health hazards associated with asbestos exposure.

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