Safety Training Topic ASBESTOS SAFETY

Transcription

1 Safety Training Topic Purpose of Meeting To remind workers that exposure to asbestos can result in serious injury. To educate workers about the risks, regulations and control measures related to working around asbestos. To consider ways to protect yourself from injuries. Materials and Preparation A copy of the written asbestos safety rules or policy. Note to Trainer Enter your name and the training date on the Training Sign-In Sheet. Have each attendee sign the Training Sign-In Sheet next to their name. Use this page for your reference and give attendees copies of the remaining pages. CSRMS Tailgate Topic 2009 DKF Solutions LLC Page 0

2 SAFETY TRAINING TOPIC Introduction During the course of your work you may be exposed to asbestos. If you don t follow the safety policies and procedures in place, you will increase your risk of developing certain diseases related to asbestos exposure. This training has been developed to educate workers about how to take appropriate precautions in order to prevent illness or injury as a result of exposure to asbestos. Asbestos Asbestos is the name given to a group of naturally occurring minerals. These minerals are used to resist heat and corrosion in products like building materials, vehicle brakes, and asbestosconcrete pipe. CSRMS Tailgate Topic 2009 DKF Solutions LLC Page 1

3 Risks Asbestos fibers can be inhaled and cause injury to lungs and other organs. For example, inhaled asbestos can cause scar-like tissue in the lungs. This tissue decreases the lungs ability to function and often progresses to disability and death. Two factors make understanding and avoiding the hazards associated with working with asbestos challenging: The adverse health effects may not appear for years after exposure to, and Asbestos fibers are too small to be seen with the naked eye. OSHA Standards There are OSHA standards in place to help protect workers who may be exposed to asbestos. The OSHA requirements are different depending on the classification of the hazard: CLASS I: Removal of certain types of insulation and surfacing that contains, or is presumed to contain, asbestos. CLASS II: Removal of other types of material that contain asbestos, such as flooring and roofing materials. CLASS III: Repair and maintenance operations where materials are disturbed that contain or may contain asbestos. CLASS IV: Custodial activities where employees clean up debris and waste that contains asbestos. CSRMS Tailgate Topic 2009 DKF Solutions LLC Page 2

4 Exposure Limits Employees must not be exposed to more than 0.1 fiber per cubic centimeter of air (averaged over an 8-hour work period). For a shorter work period, exposure cannot exceed 1 fiber per cubic centimeter (averaged over 30 minutes). In Class I & II areas, employers must do daily monitoring (unless the employer can demonstrate that exposure will be below the permissible limits.) In Class 3 & 4, if exposures are expected to exceed the permissible limits, monitoring must be done periodically. In most cases, initial monitoring must be done and then subsequent monitoring must be conducted at regular intervals (not to exceed 6 months for employees exposed above a permissible limit.) Regulated Areas When necessary, regulated areas will be established to protect workers from exposure to asbestos. Only authorized workers with the required respiratory protection will be allowed to enter regulated areas. There must be warning signs posted at regulated areas. Absolutely no eating, smoking, drinking, chewing tobacco or gum, or applying cosmetics is allowed in restricted areas. Control Measures Whenever possible, risks of exposure to asbestos will be controlled with engineering controls such as isolating the source of the asbestos and using ventilation systems. Administrative controls will also be used such as limiting exposure time. Provided by: DKF Solutions Group for CSRMS Tailgate Topic 2009 DKF Solutions LLC Page 3

5 Asbestos-Cement (A-C) Pipe In your work, your most likely asbestos exposure will be in the removal and disposal of asbestos-cement (A-C) pipe. One example is when there is an underground wastewater line-break in an A-C pipe that needs to be repaired. Keep in mind that asbestos is only harmful if it is can be inhaled. Asbestos that is friable (easily crumbled or reduced to powder by hand) can be inhaled. Undamaged A-C pipe is not friable and so it poses little or no hazard. But if you need to cut, grind or sand the A-C pipe it may become friable. Visibly damaged A- C Pipe may also be an indication that surface debris or dust may be contaminated with asbestos. It is essential that A-C pipe repairs be performed in a safe manner. Avoid any contact with asbestos-containing materials that disturbs its position, makes it friable or generates any visible debris from it. Certain A-C pipe repairs require that EPA, OSHA and local guidelines be followed such as: EPA-trained asbestos workers must be called to a worksite where there is cutting, grinding or sanding of A-C pipe. The work area must be barricaded to avoid entry of unauthorized personnel. The asbestos-trained supervisor will direct access to the work area. Proper air sampling protocol must be followed. Appropriate PPE and a decontamination station must be provided. Provided by: DKF Solutions Group for CSRMS Tailgate Topic 2009 DKF Solutions LLC Page 4

6 Personal Protective Equipment You will be provided with the appropriate personal protective equipment to help prevent exposure to asbestos. Respirator use in accordance with our Respiratory Protection Plan is essential. This will include a medical evaluation, fit testing and training as necessary. Protective clothing will also be provided and may include: coveralls, head coverings, gloves, foot coverings, and eye protection. Conclusion A basic understanding of asbestos can go a long way reducing your risk of developing serious asbestos-related diseases. Remember these basic concepts: Exposure to asbestos can cause a number of serious diseases and the effects of exposure may not appear for many years. Asbestos fibers are too small to be seen by the naked eye. There are OSHA standards that your employer must adhere to in order to protect you from the risks of asbestos exposure. Controls are put in place to help protect you be sure to follow all of the policies and procedures. Always wear the proper personal protective equipment. And finally, if you have any questions about your exposure to asbestos or about the policies and procedures we have in place, see your supervisor right away. Provided by: DKF Solutions Group for CSRMS Tailgate Topic 2009 DKF Solutions LLC Page 5