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⚠️ Asbestos Awareness

Topic: Asbestos hazards and awareness Duration: 5-7 minutes Required: Awareness training for all construction workers

What is Asbestos?​

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that was used in building materials until the 1980s.

Common locations:

  • Insulation (pipe, attic, wall)
  • Floor tiles and mastics
  • Ceiling tiles
  • Roofing materials
  • Siding
  • Joint compound (pre-1980)

Health Hazards​

Asbestos causes:

  • Asbestosis - Lung scarring
  • Lung cancer - Increased risk
  • Mesothelioma - Rare, fatal cancer
  • Diseases take 10-40 years to develop

No safe level - Any exposure can cause disease.

When You Might Encounter It​

Common Situations​

  • Renovation - Removing old materials
  • Demolition - Tearing down old buildings
  • Maintenance - Working on old systems
  • Unknown materials - Materials of unknown age

What to Do​

If You Suspect Asbestos​

  1. Stop work - Don't disturb the material
  2. Notify supervisor - Report immediately
  3. Don't touch - Don't handle the material
  4. Stay away - Keep others away
  5. Wait for testing - Let qualified person test

If Asbestos is Present​

  • Abatement required - Must be removed by licensed contractor
  • Stay away - Don't enter area during abatement
  • Follow procedures - If you must work nearby

Protection​

If you must work near asbestos:

  • Respiratory protection - Proper respirator
  • Protective clothing - Disposable coveralls
  • Decontamination - Proper cleanup procedures
  • Training - Trained on procedures
Deadly Hazard

Asbestos exposure causes fatal diseases. Never disturb suspected asbestos materials. Report them immediately.