Asbestos

Gordon Institute of TAFE

Introduction

• History of asbestos use

• Types of asbestos

• Common applications

• Health effects

• Handling and storage

A History of Controversy

Why did they use it?

• Does not react with acids

• Heat resistant

• Cheap and abundant

• Easily transported

• Great insulator

• No known health problems

Types of Asbestos

Chrysotile (white) Amosite (brown)

Crocidolite (blue)

Processing

Non-friable rocks of asbestos are pulverised and woven to suit application

Common Applications

• Building products

• Insulation

• Fire retardant coatings

• Furniture

• Break pads

• Circuit boards

Cigarette advertising 1952 – 54. Filters used crocidolite asbestos.

Health Effects

1. Fibres are inhaled

2. Body’s natural defenses (macrophage) attempt to destroy

3. Asbestos fibres rupture macrophage, spilling acids

4. Lung walls, alveoli, are scarred

Diseases: Asbestosis, Lung Cancer and Mesotheliomas

It usually takes 15 – 40 years for asbestos related illness to emerge

Employer Obligations

IDENTIFY & RECORD • the location of the asbestos, • the type of asbestos-containing material • the nature of the material (friable or non-

friable) • the likelihood of the material posing a

health risk • any work activities that may affect or

cause deterioration to the material

Employer ObligationsCONTROL THE RISK

Employers and people who manage or control a workplace where asbestos is present must eliminate any risk associated with the asbestos by removing it.

If it is not reasonably practicable to eliminate the risk, they must reduce the risk as far as reasonably practicable, by:

• enclosing the material; and • if a risk still remains, sealing the material

Employers have a duty to consult employees and health and safety representatives when identifying hazards and deciding on control measures.