Asbestos Awareness and Handling is a critical topic in occupational health and safety.
Despite being banned or heavily restricted in many countries, asbestos remains a serious threat due to its historical use in construction, insulation, and manufacturing materials.
Workers can still encounter asbestos during renovations, demolitions, or equipment repairs—often unknowingly.
Exposure to asbestos fibres can lead to fatal diseases such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer.
That’s why it’s essential for workers, supervisors, and safety professionals to recognize potential asbestos hazards and follow safe handling procedures.
What Is Asbestos and Why Is It Dangerous?
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that are heat-resistant and extremely durable. Because of these properties, asbestos was widely used in insulation, pipe coverings, ceiling tiles, cement products, and floor tiles—especially between 1930 and 1990.
When disturbed, asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) release tiny, sharp fibres that can lodge in the lungs. These fibres do not break down in the body and can cause irreversible damage over time.
⚠️ Note: Asbestos-related illnesses often have a latency period of 10–40 years.
Where Is Asbestos Still Found?
Common locations include:
- Old pipe insulation and boilers
- Sprayed-on fireproofing and soundproofing materials
- Vinyl floor tiles and backing
- Ceiling tiles and drywall compound
- Cement shingles and siding
- Brake pads and gaskets in older vehicles
Even modern buildings may contain asbestos if they used leftover materials or were built before the full ban in certain countries. In Canada, a comprehensive ban was enacted in 2018, but exceptions still exist.
7 Critical Safety Measures for Asbestos Awareness and Handling
1. Identify Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACMs)
Before any maintenance, renovation, or demolition:
- Conduct an asbestos survey using certified professionals.
- Refer to building material records and previous test reports.
Use labs accredited by associations like AIHA or CCOHS for testing.
2. Conduct Risk Assessments
Once ACMs are identified:
- Assess whether they are friable (easily crumbled) or non-friable.
- Evaluate the likelihood of fibre release during planned work.
This should feed into a job hazard analysis (JHA) and determine necessary control measures.
3. Follow Proper Control Measures
Apply the Hierarchy of Controls:
- Eliminate: Avoid disturbing ACMs where possible.
- Engineer: Use HEPA-filtered ventilation and isolation barriers.
- Administer: Restrict access, post warning signs, and issue permits.
- Protect: Provide appropriate PPE including:
- Disposable coveralls
- Respirators with P100 filters
- Safety goggles and gloves
4. Use Certified Asbestos Abatement Contractors
For work involving disturbance or removal:
- Hire licensed professionals trained under your region’s asbestos regulations.
- Ensure workers have received asbestos handling certification.
In Canada, employers must comply with CSA Z1006-16: Management of Work in Confined Spaces, and provincial OHSA regulations.
5. Follow Safe Work Practices During Handling
- Wet methods: Always wet ACMs before disturbance to reduce fibre release.
- No dry sweeping or compressed air: These can spread fibres.
- Bag and label: Waste must be double-bagged and labeled as asbestos-containing.
All workers must be decontaminated after the task, including showers and proper disposal of coveralls.
6. Monitor Air Quality and Health
- Use air monitoring to ensure airborne fibres stay below occupational exposure limits (OELs).
- Provide regular health surveillance for workers with potential exposure histories.
- Maintain exposure records for at least 30 years, as required by many jurisdictions.
7. Train and Educate Workers
Every worker in potential contact with asbestos must receive:
- Asbestos awareness training
- Instruction on recognizing ACMs
- PPE usage, emergency response, and reporting procedures
Training should be refreshed annually or when new ACMs or procedures are introduced.
Asbestos Handling Do’s and Don’ts
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Wet the material before handling | Use power tools without proper controls |
| Use proper PPE and respirators | Attempt removal without training |
| Label and seal asbestos waste | Eat, drink, or smoke in contaminated areas |
| Hire certified abatement professionals | Dispose of asbestos in regular construction waste |
Digital Tools for Asbestos Management
Track inspections, documentation, and exposure records with:
- EcoOnline Asbestos Module
- iAuditor by SafetyCulture
- SHEQSY for mobile hazard communication
- OHSE.ca Safety Resources
Related Reading
Conclusion: Treat Asbestos With Serious Respect
Asbestos Awareness and Handling isn’t just about compliance—it’s about saving lives. With the right knowledge, preparation, and professional support, the risks associated with asbestos can be managed effectively.
Whether you’re renovating an old building or repairing machinery, knowing how to recognize and respond to ACMs is essential.
Empower your workers, follow the law, and never underestimate the danger of a single fibre.
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