Toolbox Talk: Asbestos Awareness

An overview about Asbestos

Asbestos is a hazardous material that, when disturbed, releases fibres into the air. These fibres can be inhaled and cause serious health issues, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Asbestos was commonly used in construction materials before its dangers were widely recognised, meaning it can still be found in many older buildings.

What is Asbestos? Asbestos refers to six naturally occurring fibrous minerals that were once widely used in construction due to their heat resistance, strength, and insulating properties. These materials were commonly found in products like insulation, floor tiles, roofing materials, and pipe coatings.

Health Risks of Asbestos: The fibres from asbestos are microscopic and can easily be inhaled. Once inhaled, they can become lodged in the lungs, leading to serious health conditions:

• Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease that can cause shortness of breath and scarring of lung tissue.
• Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, chest, abdomen, and heart.
• Lung Cancer: Smoking combined with asbestos exposure greatly increases the risk.

Where Might You Encounter Asbestos? Asbestos can still be present in buildings constructed before the year 2000, in:

• Insulation materials around pipes and boilers.
• Ceiling tiles and coatings.
• Floor tiles and adhesives.
• Roofing materials and shingles.
• Certain types of cement used in walls, ceilings, and floors.

Asbestos has also recently been found in talc used in baby powders and make up products.

How to Work Safely Around Asbestos:

1. Assume Asbestos is Present: If you are working in a building built before 2000, assume asbestos is present unless confirmed otherwise by a survey.
2. Do Not Disturb Asbestos: If asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are in good condition, it is often safer to leave them undisturbed.
3. Use Proper PPE: If working near ACMs, ensure you are using appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including masks or respirators designed to filter asbestos fibres.
4. Follow Procedures: Only trained and authorised personnel should handle or remove asbestos. Make sure to follow all safety protocols and procedures. Contact a competent person to deal with asbestos.
5. Report Any Damaged Materials: If you see any material that you suspect may contain asbestos and it is damaged or deteriorating, report it immediately to your supervisor.

Legal Responsibilities: Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, employers have a duty to manage asbestos in their premises and ensure that workers are protected from exposure. This includes conducting asbestos surveys, risk assessments, and providing adequate training to employees.

Emergency Procedures: If asbestos-containing materials are disturbed or damaged:

• Stop work immediately.
• Evacuate the area and prevent access.
• Report the incident to your supervisor or health and safety officer.
• Do not attempt to clean up or remove the asbestos yourself.

Conclusion: Asbestos is a silent danger that requires vigilance and strict adherence to safety protocols. Always be aware of your surroundings, use the appropriate PPE, and follow procedures to protect yourself and others from the harmful effects of asbestos exposure. Remember, safety first—never take shortcuts when it comes to asbestos. Further information on asbestos can be gained but arranging our Asbestos Awareness course and within NEBOSH General certificate, NEBOSH Construction plus the CITB SMSTS and SSSTS courses.