Ensuring safe workplace practices: The risks and dangers of asbestos products
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral once widely used in various building and manufacturing applications due to its heat-resistant properties. Unfortunately, it was later discovered that asbestos fibres, when inhaled, can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. In this article, we will discuss the risks and dangers of asbestos products and how to ensure safe workplace practices.
Tiny fibres are released into the air when asbestos-containing materials are disturbed or damaged. These fibres can lodge in the lungs if inhaled and cause various health problems. In addition to the health risks, legal risks are associated with asbestos products. Many countries have strict regulations regarding the handling and disposal of asbestos-containing materials, and failure to comply with these regulations can result in hefty fines and legal action.
How to ensure safe workplace practices
If your workplace has asbestos-containing materials, there are several steps you can take to ensure the safety of yourself and your employees.
Identify asbestos-containing materials
The first step in ensuring safe workplace practices is identifying asbestos-containing materials. This can be done by conducting an asbestos survey or inspection to identify any materials that contain asbestos and determine their condition and location.
Develop a plan for managing asbestos
Once asbestos-containing materials have been identified, developing a plan for managing them is crucial. This plan should include procedures for handling, storing, and disposing of asbestos-containing materials and dealing with any unexpected releases or incidents.
Train employees
All employees who may encounter asbestos-containing materials should receive training on handling them safely. This training should include information on the health risks associated with asbestos, identifying asbestos-containing materials, and handling and disposing of them properly.
Use proper personal protective equipment
Using proper personal protective equipment (PPE), such as respirators, gloves, and protective clothing, is vital when working with asbestos-containing materials. This equipment should be properly fitted and maintained to provide adequate protection.
Follow proper work practices
When handling asbestos-containing materials, it is essential to follow proper work practices to minimise the release of fibres into the air. This may include wetting down materials before handling them, using hand tools instead of power tools, and carefully cleaning up any debris or dust.
Dispose of asbestos-containing materials properly
Asbestos-containing materials should be disposed of properly to prevent any further release of fibres into the air. This may involve using a licensed asbestos removal contractor like ENSA or disposing of the materials at a licensed waste disposal facility.
Monitor the workplace
Finally, it is vital to monitor the workplace regularly to ensure that asbestos-containing materials are not being disturbed or damaged. This may involve regular inspections, air monitoring, and employee health monitoring.
Contact ENSA for more details
Asbestos-containing materials pose a serious health risk to anyone who may encounter them. To ensure the safety of employees and comply with legal regulations, it is essential to identify any asbestos-containing materials present in the workplace and develop a plan for managing them safely. Contact an ENSA representative today to learn more about how we can help you dispose of asbestos products.