Asbestos in the Workplace

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Asbestos in the Workplace guidance

Even today asbestos can be found in many places within a workplace or residential property, a few typical examples being;

•insulation around boilers and pipes (maybe sprayed or wrapped)

•fire protection / insulation boards

•asbestos cement products

•certain texture coatings, decorative plasters and paints

•roofing sheets

•floor tiles or ceiling tiles

The widespread use of asbestos-related materials means, many building workers, not directly associated with asbestos activities, and through no fault of their own, will make up today's high death rates. The outlook for asbestos deaths is grim and will make up much of tomorrow's grim statistics.

There is much guidance to asbestos, some of which is listed below, but first, remember;

1.if asbestos is found or suspected, leave it alone, and do not disturb it. (suspect material should be strongly assumed to contain asbestos unless there is strong evidence to prove otherwise)

2.if in doubt, arrange for an asbestos accredited laboratory to confirm the nature of the suspect material.

Once asbestos is confirmed, an assessment of potential risks needs undertaking. Any plan to manage asbestos-related material will largely depend upon its condition, for example;

For asbestos in good condition, which is unlikely to be disturbed, damaged, or worked (i.e., drilled through), it is usually considered best to leave alone and managed through sound safety practices and principles. However, for asbestos in poor condition or in locations whereby it is likely to be damaged and or disturbed, it is usual for a decision to remove or seal in-place to be made.

For free practical resources visit No Time to Lose: asbestos - an IOSH article on the huge global toll from work-related exposure to asbestos.

The primary UK legislation covering asbestos is The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. Further available guidance to assist in meeting the requirements of asbestos control see;

Asbestos guidance