Health & Safety Flashcards
What is Asbestos?
A naturally occurring silicate material dug from the ground. It was commonly mined in Russia, South Africa and Brazil
What are the properties of Asbestos
It does not burn, doesn’t conduct heat or electricity and has not resistance to chemicals.
When as the use of Asbestos banned in the UK?
1985 - blue and brown
1993 - white
What are the 3 most common types of Asbestos?
- Amosite (brown)
- Crocidolite (blue)
- Chrysotile (white)
What are the properties of Amosite (brown) asbestos?
- Under microscope the fibres are spiky, harsh with a grey & white colour.
- Hydrophobic meaning it repels water AND resists acid & heat
What are the properties of Crocidolite (blue) asbestos?
- Fibres look like needles and are very strong
- Also hydrophobic and resists acids
What are the properties of of Chrysotile (white) asbestos?
- Fibres are more flexible
- Heat resistant and resistant to alkalis.
How does Asbestos affect health?
- Brown & blue are most dangerous and cause cancer (mesothelioma)
- Raw form - long thin threadlike fibres can easily be inhaled and can penetrate soft lining of lungs .This can lead to abnormal cell growth (pheral plaques)
What is the latency period (time delay before symptoms appear)?
Lung cancer - 15-30 years
Mesothelioma - 15-60 years
Non-malignant pleural disease - 20-40 years
Can start developing after 5 years consistent exposure
What is RAMS?
Risk Assessment Method Statement - document that outlines how to safely complete a task or project.
What are the principles of RAMS?
- Identify the hazard
- Assess the risk to identify the likelihood and severity of each risk
- Control the risks - plan how to reduce or eliminate the risk
- Create a method statement - step-by-step guide for completing the task safely
- Review and update RAMS as needed
What is CDM?
CDM stands for Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015.
What was the purpose of the CDM Regulations?
- Help improve health and safety practices.
- Reduce the risks of injuries, accidents and ill health on projects
- Ensure al parties involved in the construction process work together effectively.
Who do CDM Regulations apply to?
- Clients
- Designers
- Contractors
- Workers
What types of works do CDM regulations apply to?
They apply to all construction work including new builds, renovations and maintenance.