What Should I Do If I Discover Asbestos?

Discovering asbestos in your home or workplace can be alarming. While useful for insulation and strength, this naturally occurring fibrous material poses significant health risks when disturbed. 

However, understanding what asbestos is, its dangers, and how to manage it safely can help protect you and others from severe health risks. Below, we’ll cover what you need to know about asbestos, its dangers, and the steps you should take if you find it. 

What Is Asbestos? 

Asbestos refers to a group of six naturally occurring silicate minerals composed of long, thin, fibrous crystals. Due to its durability and resistance to heat, fire, and chemicals, asbestos was commonly used in construction materials and products such as insulation, roofing, and flooring.

Is Asbestos Dangerous? 

Yes, asbestos is dangerous. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, they release tiny fibers into the air. These fibers can be inhaled, leading to serious lung diseases. The risk increases with the number of fibers inhaled and the duration of exposure.

Health Effects of Asbestos 

Exposure to asbestos fibers can cause several severe health issues, including:

• Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease that leads to scarring of lung tissue, causing breathing difficulties.
• Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, chest, or abdomen.
• Lung Cancer: Asbestos exposure significantly increases the risk of lung cancer, especially among smokers.

What to Do About Asbestos Discovery 

In the unfortunate case of an asbestos discovery, here’s what you can do to help decrease the risk of exposure and ensure safety:

1. Asbestos Identification 

If you suspect asbestos in your home or workplace, do not disturb the material. 

Instead, follow these steps to ensure safety: 

Avoid Disturbance: Do not touch or try to remove the material yourself. Asbestos fibers are easily airborne when disturbed. 

Consult Professionals: Hire a certified asbestos professional to inspect the area and confirm the presence of asbestos. 

Controlled Removal: If removal is necessary, ensure it is done by trained and certified professionals in a controlled environment to prevent contamination. 

2. Handling Asbestos Safely 

Safe handling of asbestos involves strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent fiber release and exposure: 

• Necessary Removal: Remove asbestos-containing materials only if necessary.
• Qualified Personnel: Ensure that only experienced and skilled personnel handle asbestos.
• Controlled Environment: Asbestos removal should always be conducted in a controlled environment to prevent cross-contamination. 

3. Emergency Procedures for Asbestos Release 

In case of accidental asbestos release, follow these emergency procedures: 

• Warn Affected Personnel: Immediately alert anyone who might be affected by the release. 
• Evacuate Non-Essential Personnel: Ensure that everyone who is not needed for the response evacuates the area.
• Determine the Cause: Identify the reason for the uncontrolled release to prevent future incidents.
• Regain Control: Secure the area to prevent further contamination.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensure that anyone remaining in the contaminated area is wearing appropriate PPE.
• Reduce Spread: Take steps to minimize the spread of asbestos fibers.
• Decontaminate: Clean up all dust and debris, and decontaminate workers exposed to asbestos. Dispose of contaminated rags, clothing, and PPE as hazardous waste.

Asbestos Management Programs 

An effective asbestos management program includes regular monitoring and surveys to ensure safe conditions. 

Conduct yearly asbestos surveys to manage materials containing asbestos, inform all employees and contractors of the potential hazards before starting operations, and monitor any changes in site use to detect and manage asbestos presence. 

Asbestos Safety Training With OSHA.com 

Whether you’re a site owner, supervisor, or worker, understanding asbestos and other hazardous materials is crucial. If you discover asbestos, it's crucial to handle the situation with care and seek professional help. 

Always follow established safety protocols and stay informed through certified training programs. 

Fortunately, Asbestos Safety Training from OSHA.com provides comprehensive training based on OSHA’s hazard emergency response standards. This course introduces you to the hazards of asbestos in the workplace and provides information about the measures you should take to minimize the effects of asbestos exposure. 

Moreover, our courses come with a certificate upon successful completion. Satisfy all your compliance training requirements without sacrificing valuable time and money while increasing safety. Sign up today to contribute to safer work environments!