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ASBESTOS SAFETYMaterial Courtesy of DuPont™ Tyvek®

WHAT IS ASBESTOS?

Asbestos is the common name for several naturally occurring fibrous silicate minerals

Asbestos fibres are highly heat resistant and strong, being used for many years in thermal insulating materials

Most asbestos products are non-friable, in which asbestos fibres are bonded with cement, vinyl or resin materials

Friable asbestos, as a general rule, is where the asbestos fibres are easily disturbed and become air borne

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UNDERSTANDING THE DANGERS OF ASBESTOS

In both friable and non-friable asbestos materials, microscopic fibres can release into the air in smaller or larger quantities.

Inhalation of asbestos fibres can have serious health effects, including asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma

In Australia, a nationwide ban on importing and using all forms asbestos took effect on 31 December 2003. The ban did not cover asbestos materials or products already in use at the time the ban was implemented.

Although Australia has only a third of the UK’s population, its asbestos disease fatalities approximate Britain’s of more than 3,000 people per year.

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MINIMISING THE RISKS

The European Council Directive 83/477/EEC on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to asbestos at work and its amendments, deals specifically with protecting workers from the risks related to exposure to asbestos at work.

Before any work is done, a comprehensive risk assessment has to be carried out and preventive measures have to be established.

Employers have to provide the necessary organisation of work, appropriate equipment (including suitable personal protective equipment), safe systems of work, training, information, and supervision.

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CHOOSING APPROPRIATE PROTECTIVE CLOTHING

Suitable personal protective equipment in general includes respiratory equipment, coverall, gloves and safety boots.

Protective coveralls must provide a high barrier against airborne particles (Category III EN 13982-1 Type 5 -The Type 5 product standard allows for an inward leakage of up to 15% in 8 out of 10 suits tested)

Coveralls have to meet the following requirements: High particle barrier Smooth surface Tight fit and closure at arm and leg opening Compatible with additional PPE Comfortable to wear with high freedom of

movement

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ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT WITH RSEA SAFETY

Personal Protective Equipment

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Site Safety and Signage

Asbestos Transport and Removal

For a complete range of Asbestos Essentials, view our online range at rsea.com.au/asbestos