Toolbox Talk – Asbestos

This toolbox talk is focused on asbestos also known as human cancer-causing substance of the lungs, intestines, throat, and ovaries. It is also known to cause other diseases such as Asbestosis, which can significantly reduce the amount of oxygen that can enter the bloodstream (lung function).

Factors affecting health risk from exposure to asbestos:

• The time your exposure lasts
• How often you’re exposed
• Size of the fibres
• Amount of asbestos in the air
• Type of Asbestos

Uses of asbestos fibre

• Cement building materials
• Pipework lagging
• Fire resistant insulation boards
• Floor tiles and coverings
• Lifts and machinery

Risk Prevention

1. Reasonably practicable to lower exposure by means other than respiratory protective equipment, so that it does not exceed the 0% for asbestos.
2. Where reasonably practicable, an employer or self-employed person shall control the exposure of a person by:
   • Using a substitute for asbestos
   • Limiting the number of persons who will be exposed or may be exposed.
   • Limiting the period during which persons will be exposed or may be exposed.
   • By limiting the amount of asbestos dust that may contaminate the working environment.

Inhaled asbestos is associated with three major diseases:

• Asbestosis – Abestos causes scarring of lung tissue that eventually restricts one’s ability to inhale.
• Lung Cancer – Asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer, especially in combination with exposure to tobacco smoke.
• Mesothelioma – Asbestos is though to be the primary cause of this rare and deadly type of cancer of the lung lining and chest wall.

Download the full toolbox talk on asbestos to ensure you know the next steps to take when working with asbestos.