If you are going to be working with asbestos, you must make sure that you are fully protected. This material is incredibly hazardous. It will not only cause irritation and mild symptoms but can be responsible for causing lung cancer. You’ll need to fully equip yourself with the right gear. But which personal protective equipment should you wear when working around asbestos containing materials?
You’ll need gloves, overalls, a respirator mask and appropriate footwear. This applies even when you are working with small amounts of asbestos. There is no ‘safe’ amount of this material so always comply with PPE rules.
In this guide, we will be taking a closer look at the importance of each piece of equipment. We’ll also discuss what standards your PPE must meet in order to be deemed appropriate.
Why Is PPE Important For Asbestos?
In the UK, and most other places around the world, there are tight controls on working with asbestos. Governments and employers are responsible for protecting people as much as possible from exposure to this hazardous material.
However, there are some situations where contact with asbestos cannot be avoided. For example, in asbestos removal. In this case, you will need to wear personal protective equipment.
The reason that this is so imperative is that asbestos is known for its toxicity. While it was used in a variety of building materials for many years, we have now come to realise the dangers. Asbestosis, which causes scarring of the lungs and pleural thickening are just some of the irreversible diseases associated with the material.
But most frightening is the possibility of lung cancer, specifically mesothelioma. This affects the thin lining of the chest. However, it is not the only type of cancer associated with asbestos. In fact, cases of ovarian cancer and cancer of the larynx and lungs have all been reported.
What PPE Do I Need For Asbestos?
In order to safely work with asbestos, for example, removing it or working on a site where there may be asbestos containing materials; you must wear the following PPE.
Respirators
Potentially the most important piece of personal protective equipment for asbestos is the respirator. Wearing a mask like this will prevent you breathing in fibres which could lead to things like mesothelioma.
We have a full guide on choosing the right mask for asbestos here, so be sure to check that out. But in brief, you must choose one that is suitable for use with this hazardous material. This includes the following:
- Any mask with an APF of more than 20.
- Type FFP3 (disposable)
- Type FMP3 (disposable)
- EN140 with a P3 filter – half mask
- EN405 with a P3 filter – semi disposable
- Air flow respirator for longer periods of asbestos exposure
It is also vital to ensure a good fit from your mask. Not having a tight seal and a snug fit will allow fibres and dust to get through. In order to check this, you should have your mask face fitted before use.
Furthermore, people with facial hair will find that a tight seal cannot be obtained. In this case, a full head mask may be necessary. Gloves
While not as serious as other diseases caused by asbestos, it is possible to develop asbestos warts. This can easily be avoided by wearing suitable gloves that are durable and won’t tear during use. Just like your overalls, it is important to choose disposable gloves for optimal safety.
Footwear
Many people fall into the trap of believing that disposable shoe covers are enough when working with asbestos. But this is a common misconception. These do not offer the right level of protection so should be avoided. Moreover, they come with a slipping risk.
It is best to choose a strong pair of boots. Laced boots are not generally as safe so it is advisable to opt for Wellington boots.
Overalls
Choose disposable overalls when working with asbestos as fibres may become stuck to them making them unsuitable for multiple uses. According to the HSE, you must also ensure that the overalls are a Type 5.
In some cases, you may find yourself working outdoors. For this, you should opt for waterproof overalls. It is also recommended to go for overalls that are a little larger than your normal size. Doing this will prevent stretching the seams which could cause them to tear. If this happens, there is a risk of asbestos fibres getting in.
However, wearing larger than normal overalls might mean that the cuffs are loose. If this happens, you can seal them using tape. The footholes should be placed over your boots and never tucked in as this comes with a risk of allowing particles into your shoes.
Who Is Responsible For Providing PPE For Asbestos?
If you are working in a domestic property with asbestos, we would always recommend hiring a professional. However, if you absolutely must do the work yourself, you are responsible for sourcing appropriate PPE.
On the other hand, if you are employed in a job where you’ll be exposed to asbestos, it is up to your employer. Not only should they provide PPE but they should also offer asbestos awareness training annually.
Conclusion
We all know that asbestos is a highly dangerous material but when you realise just how dangerous it is, you’ll want to reach for the PPE. When working with asbestos, you must wear appropriate gloves, overalls, shoes and a mask.
When worn correctly, these items will drastically limit your exposure and could stop you from developing one of the many diseases associated with asbestos.