'Tightly controlled conditions' required for asbestos removal

Categories: Construction Health and Safety |


'Tightly controlled conditions' required for asbestos removal The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued a reminder about the dangers posed to construction workers by asbestos found in old buildings.

Asbestos fibre exposure is linked to a number of serious diseases, including cancer and scarring of the lungs, and any worker who uncovers asbestos must stop work and report it, as stringent safety procedures need to be followed.

Helena Tinton, an HSE inspector, says: "Work with materials containing higher risk asbestos, including asbestos insulation board, is a licensed activity with work only carried out by trained people under tightly controlled conditions."

Those working with asbestos must use personal protective equipment (PPE), including a suitable face mask, worn properly.

As the asbestos is removed, waste must be cleaned up, double-bagged and then disposed of at a licensed tip.

When taking breaks or leaving for the day, workers must wash off and leave their overalls at the site.

Workers must not create lots of dust by using power tools or sweeping, re-use disposable PPE, smoke, eat or drink in the work area.

It is the employer's responsibility to oversee this work.

Posted by Josie HillADNFCR-1200-ID-801287297-ADNFCR

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