Christel | Passionate About SHEQ Management

Asbestos Exposure - Affecting Workers Health And Safety

• August 18th, 2008

The Health and Safety of all employees an all industries should be of the utmost concern, but unfortunately this is an issue that is often neglected. The threat of exposure to asbestos while at work is a very real concern. Asbestos is the conclusive cause of pleural mesothelioma, a fatal cancer that attacks the lungs and presently does not have a cure.

Many different kinds of professionals are at a heightened risk of exposure to asbestos while at work, including firefighters, oil refinery workers, miners, construction workers, laggers, military personnel, and factory workers. Asbestos may be found in various construction products, such as insulation, drywall, acoustical plaster, and even some brands of duct tape. If asbestos-containing materials are damaged by fire, water, or other disturbances the tiny asbestos fibers may become airborne, putting individuals present in the area at great risk of inhalation. If inhaled, asbestos fibers can cling to the pleural lining of the lungs for decades before an afflicted individual may begin to suffer from common pleural mesothelioma cancer symptoms.

Mesothelioma cancer is 100% fatal, but it is also 100% avoidable. It is crucial that workers understand how to protect themselves from asbestos exposure while at work. It is advisable to wear a mask that adequately covers the mouth and nose at all times when working in areas where asbestos may be present to avoid inhalation. In addition, proper cross-ventilation is crucial in any work area where asbestos may be airborne, as it will prevent asbestos fibers and asbestos dust from settling. Any protective outerwear, such as eyewear, booties or lab coats should be cleaned or disposed of prior to leaving the work area to prevent transfer of asbestos fibers to secondary locations. Appropriate asbestos handling and disposal regulations should be posted in work areas as well in an effort to educate all workers.

A diagnosis of mesothelioma cancer is a devastating reality. The majority of mesothelioma sufferers will surrender to this incredibly painful and aggressive form of cancer in less than two years following their initial diagnosis. There is no known cure, but there are a variety of mesothelioma treatment methods available.

The Mesothelioma & Asbestos Awareness Center is the web’s foremost resource for information related to occupational asbestos exposure, mesothelioma cancer, and more. Please visit the Mesothelioma & Asbestos Awareness Center website at www.maacenter.org for further information.

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2 Responses to “Asbestos Exposure - Affecting Workers Health And Safety”

1. Elize de Beer Says:
   July 14th, 2009 at 12:19 pm

   Hi Christelle,

   We did a survey a few months back on asbestos. The AIA found asbestos in facia boards, roof tiles and window sills. All these areas are covered with paint and checked 6-monthly to ensure it is in good order. Is this enough?
   Work procedure and necessary PPE is in place should roof tiles etc be removed.

2. christel Says:
   July 16th, 2009 at 3:03 pm

   Hi Elize
   I have asked Riette of Rapid Spill Response to assist me - here is her feedback:

   “facia boards, roof tiles and window sills” all form part of the structure of a building.

   Yes, your client is doing enough to maintain and manage asbestos exposure.

   Please refer to the Occupational Health and Safety At , Act 85 of 1993, with specific reference to the Asbestos Regulations,
   Section 14 (6) (a – d), which is self explanatory.

   I hope that this information will assist.

   Riette - thank you for your help.
   Regards Christel

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