Asbestos

Question 1

What is asbestos

Answer 1

A mineral, used extensively in building construction during the 1950s.

Question 2

What is the hazard from asbestos

Answer 2

The risk is from the inhalation of fibres. Respiratory protection must be worn whenever in contact with asbestos Forbes.

Question 3

Exposure to asbestos may cause…………

Answer 3

Lung disease

Question 4

Where might asbestos be found

Answer 4

Ceiling and floor tiles
Soft asbestos fibre boards
Insulation for boilers, steam ducts etc.
Spray insulation on heating pipes and boiler rooms
Brake linings
Gaskets in heating installations
Cement asbestos in sheeting

Question 5

What are the two main forms of asbestos encountered by the London Fire Brigade

Answer 5

Asbestos used for insulation (fibres are easily released)

Cement asbestos sheeting (fibres are locked in-lower risk)

Question 6

When asbestos is found, what precautions must be taken?

Answer 6

Observe any signs, use ORD
Priority message stating “Asbestos reported”
Minimum personnel to be committed
If no fire, consider Gas Tight Suits
In fire, the IC must risk assess to determine the appropriate level of PPE
Cutting away to be kept to a minimum
All materials containing asbestos should be kept damp
Don not eat or drink until after decontamination
All contaminated gear must be double bagged, and labelled for specialist cleaning.