Asbestos Safety Procedures

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]

Revision Date: [DATE]

Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]

Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This Safe Work Procedure (SWP) outlines the safety procedures and health hazards associated with asbestos exposure and asbestos-containing materials (ACM). It applies to all workers who may be exposed to asbestos during maintenance, renovation, demolition, or other activities. This SWP does not cover the removal of asbestos, which requires specialized training and permits.

2. Definitions

Asbestos A group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals that are resistant to heat and corrosion. Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACM) Materials containing more than 1% asbestos. Friable The potential for asbestos fibers to become airborne.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure workers are trained and competent.
Provide appropriate safety equipment and enforce its use.
Conduct regular inspections and address hazards promptly.

3.2 Workers

Use appropriate safety equipment and clothing.
Participate in training and follow established procedures.
Report any concerns or incidents immediately.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Participate in hazard identification and risk assessment.
Monitor the effectiveness of control measures.
Promote a culture of safety and continuous improvement.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Disturbance of asbestos-containing materials	Inhalation of asbestos fibers	Use wet methods to suppress dust. Provide adequate ventilation. Use HEPA vacuums for cleanup.
Inhalation of airborne asbestos fibers	Increased risk of lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis	Wear appropriate respiratory protection (e.g., N95 respirator or PAPR).
Contamination of clothing and equipment	Secondary exposure to asbestos fibers	Wear disposable coveralls and gloves. Decontaminate clothing and equipment after use.
Uncontrolled access to work areas	Exposure of unauthorized personnel to asbestos fibers	Clearly mark and barricade work areas. Post warning signs.
Improper disposal of asbestos waste	Environmental contamination and exposure to the public	Properly dispose of asbestos waste in sealed containers labeled according to regulations.
Lack of awareness and training	Increased risk of exposure and health effects	Provide training to workers on asbestos hazards, control measures, and proper work practices.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

The following personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when working with or near asbestos-containing materials:

N95 Respirator or PAPR: To prevent inhalation of asbestos fibers.
Disposable Coveralls and Gloves: To protect skin from contact with asbestos fibers.
Eye Protection (Safety Glasses or Goggles): To prevent asbestos fibers from entering the eyes.

Inspect all PPE before each use for damage or defects. Replace damaged PPE immediately. Clean and maintain PPE according to manufacturer's instructions.

6. Equipment and Tools

The following equipment and tools are required for working with or near asbestos-containing materials:

Water Sprayer: Used to suppress dust during work activities.
HEPA Vacuum: Used to clean up asbestos-containing debris.
Sealed Containers: Used to seal asbestos waste for disposal.

All equipment must be inspected before each use to ensure it is in good working condition. Any damaged or malfunctioning equipment must be taken out of service immediately.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Training and Competency: All workers who may be exposed to asbestos must receive training on asbestos hazards, control measures, and proper work practices. Training must be conducted by a qualified instructor and include hands-on practice.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Pre-Job Briefing: A pre-job briefing must be conducted before starting work to discuss the scope of work, potential hazards, control measures, and emergency procedures.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Work Area Preparation: Before starting work, the work area must be inspected for asbestos-containing materials. The area must be isolated and warning signs posted. All unnecessary items must be removed from the work area.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Identify Potential Asbestos-Containing Materials: If asbestos-containing materials are identified, stop work immediately and notify the supervisor.
Isolate the Work Area: Isolate the work area using barriers and warning signs to prevent unauthorized access.
Control Dust: Use wet methods, such as spraying with water, to suppress dust during work activities.
Wear Respiratory Protection: Wear appropriate respiratory protection, such as an N95 respirator or a powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR).
Wear Protective Clothing: Wear disposable coveralls, gloves, and eye protection to prevent skin and eye contact.
Clean Up Work Area: Use a HEPA vacuum to clean up any asbestos-containing debris.
Dispose of Asbestos Waste: Properly dispose of asbestos waste in sealed containers labeled according to regulations.
Decontaminate: After completing work, decontaminate clothing and equipment to prevent secondary exposure.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Always assume that materials may contain asbestos until testing proves otherwise.
Never dry sweep or use compressed air to clean up asbestos-containing debris.
Avoid sanding, cutting, or otherwise disturbing asbestos-containing materials.
Dispose of asbestos waste in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

Evacuate the area immediately if a large release of asbestos fibers occurs.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Asbestos fibers enter the eyes.: Flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes.
Asbestos fibers contact the skin.: Wash skin with soap and water for at least 15 minutes. Thoroughly clean and dry contaminated clothing before reuse.
Inhalation of asbestos fibers.: Remove to fresh uncontaminated air. Give artificial respiration if not breathing. Seek immediate medical attention.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

In case of emergency, contact emergency services immediately.

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, including near misses and suspected exposures, must be reported to the supervisor immediately. A written report must be submitted within 24 hours.

All reported incidents will be investigated to determine the root cause and prevent recurrence. The investigation will involve interviews with workers, a review of procedures, and an inspection of the work area.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]

Date: [APPROVAL DATE]