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Asbestos

Most people are aware of the hazards posed by working with asbestos do? What are the hazards, and how can they best be avoided?

Asbestos can produce very small fibrous dust particles which can sometimes cause fatal diseases, The danger arises during work with asbestos when the fibres become airborne and so can be breathed in.

The danger is not immediately obvious because the harmful fibres are too small to be seen with the naked eye, and there is often a long latency period between exposure to asbestos and the diagnosis of an asbestos-related disease.

How does asbestos get into your body?

Although the body's defence mechanisms will expel most of the larger fibres that enter the nose and mouth, the minute respirable fibres are able to pass through these defence systems into the lower parts of the lung, where they may persist for years and in some cases work their way through the lung lining. Therefore, the more fibres breathed in, the greater the risk to health.

Any asbestos fibres that may be taken in with food and water are expelled along with other body wastes, while fibres that may come into contact with the hands do not penetrate the skin.

What does Asbestos do?

Breathing asbestos fibres over a period of time can eventually lead to a number of diseases. These include:

asbestosis or fibrosis (scaring) of the lungs
lung cancer, and
mesothelinma, a cancer of the inner lining of the chest wall or abdominal cavity.

Asbestos code

The risks from asbestos dust can be greatly reduced by taking proper precautions. It is your duty to co-operate, so follow the asbestos code;

Make sure you are adequately trained for the job and keep your workplace tidy.
Dispose of asbestos waste as instructed.

Work in a way that makes less dust discuss the safest way of working with your supervisor, or safety representative.

Never blow dust away with an airline,

Ventilation equipment must work properly.

Report any faults and if in doubt, ask.

Respirators must be of a type or standard approved by HSE and fitted with the correct filter.

Wear any protective clothing provided.

Never take overalls home.

Don't smoke, or reduce smoking as much as possible.

Follow good hygiene procedures, e.g. don't eat or drink or smoke in the work area.
Before you leave your workplace, wash your hands and face. If necessary take a shower.

Keep your periodic medical appointments to monitor your health.