Safety Measures for Workers in High-Risk Asbestos Occupations

Asbestos was once hailed for its durability. However, over the decades, it has become one of the most dangerous materials workers can encounter.

What are the safety measures for workers in high-risk asbestos occupations?

The stakes are high. Any exposure can lead to mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.

Let’s look at the steps companies and workers can take to ensure everyone’s safety.

The Danger of Asbestos

Asbestos fibers are tiny. They are so small that they are invisible to the naked eye. But once they are inhaled, they can cause problems. These fibers often come from old insulation, roofing, or flooring. Along with that, they can also spread through the air during demolition or repairs.

Exposure to asbestos has been linked to many illnesses, including mesothelioma.

When working around these fibers, it is important to stay safe. For employers, this means performing a thorough work environment assessment to identify potential hazards. Most of this work needs to happen before workers even step onto the job site.

Here are some measures that should be taken for any workers in these high-risk areas.

Training Workers for Safety Procedures

The old saying that “knowledge is power” applies to these situations. It can be hard to protect someone from danger if they don’t understand the severity of the situation. That’s where training is essential. Workers need to know what asbestos is, where it might be hiding, and how to handle it safely. These training programs should cover things like:

• How to recognize asbestos-containing materials (ACMs)
• What to do if these materials are disturbed
• The proper methods for removing and disposing of asbestos safely

By providing workers with this knowledge, employers give them the tools they need to make smart, safety-first decisions.

The Right Gear for the Job

When it comes to asbestos, personal protective equipment (PPE) is non-negotiable. Properly worn PPE acts as a barrier between workers and harmful fibers. These vital safety items include:

• Respirators: A standard dust mask will not work in these environments. Respirators with HEPA filters are designed to keep asbestos fibers out of the lungs.
• Protective clothing: Disposable coveralls, gloves, and shoe covers prevent fibers from clinging to clothing and being carried home.
• Eye protection: Safety goggles protect the eyes, especially during cutting, sanding, or other work that might release fibers.

To keep workers safe, this equipment must be properly fitted to keep any asbestos fibers from entering the lungs.

Keeping the Workplace Safe

Some controls can be used to minimize asbestos exposure before it happens. In most cases, that includes sealing off the work areas. With that, the deadly fibers have less chance of spreading.

There also is local exhaust ventilation (LEV). These systems capture fibers at the source and filter them out of the air. Many worksites will spray materials with water during work to prevent fibers from becoming airborne.

Rules and Policies in Place

Occupational Safety and Health Administration has strict rules in place to ensure the status of workers who might come into contact with asbestos. It is up to employers to make sure they are implementing these policies and that their job site adheres to these rules.

Employers need to limit exposure time for all workers. This means rotating workers in and out of asbestos-affected areas. In turn, that reduces how long any one person is exposed. Along with that, access should be monitored. Only those trained and authorized should enter high-risk zones.

Plus, decontamination stations need to be present. This allows workers to have a designated space to remove PPE, clean up, and avoid carrying fibers into clean areas.

Monitoring Workers’ Health and Jobsite Air Quality

Even with the best precautions, consistent monitoring is needed in these spaces. Employers should:

• Regularly test the air to ensure asbestos levels stay within safe limits.
• Schedule routine medical exams for workers, including lung function tests and chest X-rays.
• Keep records of exposure levels and worker health histories to track any potential issues over time.

These steps are more than compliance. They can catch problems early and give workers peace of mind.

Staying Compliant

Regulations around asbestos exist for a reason: to save lives. Employers must stay up to date on laws and make sure their teams are compliant. Some of these steps include:

• Making sure workers have the proper certifications for asbestos removal.
• Providing clear communication about the risks and safety measures.
• Keeping detailed records of training, monitoring, and disposal practices.

When companies cut corners, it violates the law and puts workers at risk. Also, this can open them up for any liability in a legal claim.

Every precaution taken today can prevent a life-altering diagnosis down the road. Employers and workers both have a role to play in creating a safer, healthier workplace. Unfortunately, not all companies are compliant or care about the safety of their workers. In these cases, legal action may be required.

If you or a loved one has suffered the effects of asbestos exposure, the legal team at Schweickert Ganassin Krzak Rundio, LLP is ready to assist.