Asbestos Awareness Toolbox Talk

Asbestos is a mineral from the group of inosilicates and of the group of phyllosilicates with a fibrous consistency. From the 1930s until the 1970s, asbestos was incorporated into building materials because of its insulation properties, durability, and resistance to corrosion and some chemicals. There was widespread use of it, especially in home construction. For instance, it may be present in pipes, floor tiles, and roofing materials. Today, its usage is typically either restricted or outlawed as a result of the numerous adverse consequences that have been linked to it by significant research. While some people are aware of the dangers of asbestos, others are unaware of them. Let's talk about it.

Why is asbestos dangerous?

Our health is in serious danger when we are exposed to asbestos. This kind of material is extremely carcinogenic to humans and can provoke very serious lung diseases, such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. Asbestos is the leading cause of work-related fatal diseases in the UK, according to annual statistics compiled by the HSE. And it kills thousands of people every year. This material is now prohibited or limited in most countries, but it can still be found in older buildings. Therefore, even though most of the above-mentioned deaths are a result of the exposure that happened decades ago, the danger cannot be considered null just yet. Nowadays, the workers more at risk are those involved in repairs and maintenance. Particularly, asbestos turns dangerous when it gets disturbed and its fibers are released into the air, inhaled, and get into the tissue of our lungs, where they provoke scarring. Thus, it is extremely crucial to wear aerial protective equipment.

Symptoms of asbestosis

It could take up to 20-30 years to develop asbestos-related diseases. The main symptoms are:

Shortness of breath;

Persistent cough;

Wheezing;

Pain in the chest;

Extreme fatigue;

How to work around asbestos?

The first piece of advice is: to know what you are working with! In other words, you should be aware of what materials contain asbestos and where they are located at your working site. That’s because once the asbestos is disturbed, the damage is done. Unless you are wearing adequate protective equipment, you should never cut, grind or smash anything containing asbestos, otherwise, the fibers will be released into the air. Secondly, make sure you are fully trained and equipped to get the job done. This means that to work around asbestos you need to be properly instructed and you have to wear PPE. Respirators (not common masks) and gloves are essential. Also, it is essential to wash before breaks and avoid bringing overalls home. You can use Parrotias PPE products to protect yourself from the negative side of asbestos.