Incidents involving Asbestos (PN 519)

Question 1

In which decade did asbestos start to become extensively used as a building material?

Answer 1

The 1950’s

Question 2

When are asbestos fibres a danger to fire fighers?

Answer 2

When they become airborne

Question 2

When are asbestos fibres a danger to fire fighers?

Answer 2

When they become airborne

Question 3

For the purposes of the Fire Service there are 2 main forms in which we encounter asbestos. What are they?

Answer 3

Insulation - fibres become airborne easily

Cement asbestos sheeting - fibres have a low risk of release

Question 4

What does ACM stand for?

Answer 4

Asbestos Containing Materials

Question 5

Under what regulations should non-domestic property owners inform the Fire Service of the presence of ACMs?

Answer 5

Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, regulation 4

Question 6

What 4 considerations should the IC make en-route to an incident where asbestos is believed to be involved?

Answer 6

1) Safe approach route and siting of appliances
2) Signage on building exterior
3) Establishing a minimum 25m restricted zone
4) Consider PN 415 Cordons

Question 7

If asbestos is known or suspected what must be done immediately by the IC on arrival?

Answer 7

Send priority message ‘Asbestos Reported’ a further message should be sent to advise on coming appliances of a safe approach and RVP (from upwind)

Question 8

What level of PPE should be worn in the restricted zone in a non fire situation?

Answer 8

Gas Tight Suits

Question 9

What must be in place prior to committing crews?

Answer 9

Decontamination and safe undress area

Question 10

What are the 3 problems associated with restricted zones?

Answer 10

1) The difficulty of evacuation large numbers of the public or confining them to their homes with doors and windows shut
2) The number of personnel required to restrict entry to the zone
3) Dealing with public order problem

Hence the need for close liaison with the Police

Question 11

What type of respirator filter should be used if BA and Gas Tight Suits are not being worn?

Answer 11

P3

Question 12

Asbestos fibres can be particularly difficult to remove from what area of your fire kit?

Answer 12

The velcro fasteners

Question 13

3 Operational considerations are listed in the note when dealing with asbestos. What are they?

Answer 13

1) Avoid cutting away of ACMs
2) Use water spray to keep ACMs damp to minimise risk of fibres becoming airborne
3) Avoid the use of power tools for cutting as they create fine particles

Food, drink and cigarettes should not be consumed on scene

Question 14

In the event of a fire where asbestos has been reported GTS would melt so consideration should be given to which 4 aspects of the incident that are listed in the note?

Answer 14

1) location of the fire in relation to the asbestos
2) Type of asbestos
3) Time of exposure
4) HMEPO or SA for decontamination advice

Question 15

Incidents involving Cement Asbestos and Artex coatings do not require GTS. What level of respiratory protection is necessary?

Answer 15

BA or respirator with P3 filter

Question 16

What should be done with contaminated fire kit post incident?

Answer 16

Double bagged and labeled asbestos contaminated (not in note) and then sent for specialist cleaning

Question 17

Is it the LFB’s responsibility to leave the area clean of Asbestos at the end of the incident?

Answer 17

No, under regulation 17 of CAR 2012 the responsibility lies with the property owner to arrange appropriate contractors. The LFB will not declare an area safe.

Question 18

How does the owner of a non domestic property inform the LFB of the presence of Asbestos?

Answer 18

Via the LFB website

Question 19

What are the 3 types of Asbestos that an owner might identify?

Answer 19

Blue
Brown
White

Question 20

Following a 7.2d visit what circumstances require an entry on the ORD regarding the presence of Asbestos?

Answer 20

Any ACMs that have a real prospect of becoming airborne. Asbestos contained in cement or artex need not be entered

Question 21

Following a 7.2d visit what circumstances require an entry on the ORD regarding the presence of Asbestos?

Answer 21

Any ACMs that have a real prospect of becoming airborne. Asbestos contained in cement or artex need not be entered

Question 22

HMEPO stands for Hazardous Materials and Environmental Protection Officer. What does SA stand for?

Answer 22

Scientific Advisor

Question 23

Blue asbestos is the most harmful. What is it called? (Not in the note)

Answer 23

Crocidolite

Question 24

Amosite or brown asbestos is often found in cement forms of asbestos. What is the name of white asbestos? (Not in the note)

Answer 24

Chrysotile, the most common type found in brake linings, cement and roofing materials

Question 25

What does WEL stand for?

Answer 25

Workplace exposure limit