Asbestos exposure is a serious risk both at work and home. Protecting yourself from asbestos-related hazards isn't just about safety; it's also a proactive step towards securing potential compensation payments in the event of workplace accidents and injuries. This section will guide you through the key aspects of asbestos management from a worker's perspective, highlighting the significance for your well-being and future claims
Understanding Asbestos
Recognizing the nature of asbestos and its associated health and safety requirements is paramount. By comprehending these, you're not only ensuring your safety but also laying the groundwork for potential compensation claims in case of asbestos-related incidents.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral composed of millions of fibres. It was extensively used in building materials and equipment until the late 1980s due to its heat and corrosion resistance. Although its use has diminished, asbestos is still found in some countries.
Risks of Asbestos
Asbestos poses significant health risks, primarily when its fibers become airborne and are inhaled. Potential risks include asbestosis, mesothelioma, pleural plaques, and various types of cancer. Symptoms may include breathing difficulties and lung scarring detectable through X-rays.
Managing Asbestos Risks
Understanding how to manage asbestos risks is pivotal to your health and potential compensation claims. Your role in managing these risks can significantly impact your well-being and that of your colleagues.
Identify the Hazard
- Identifying asbestos or asbestos-containing materials (ACM) at your workplace is the first crucial step. This should be carried out by individuals with the proper training, qualifications, and experience. You can find qualified individuals in the "How to manage and control asbestos in the workplace Code of Practice 2011."
- In Queensland, a dedicated asbestos website by the government provides essential information about locating asbestos and prohibited high-risk work. It also covers the requirement for asbestos registers.
Assess the Risk
- If asbestos is detected, the next step is assessing the risk. This process helps determine the likelihood of exposure to airborne asbestos, the effectiveness of control measures, and the urgency of action.
- Remember, asbestos or ACM in good condition and undisturbed is relatively low risk. It becomes most dangerous when deteriorating, damaged, or disturbed.
Control the Risk
- After risk assessment, control measures must be implemented to protect workers and others from asbestos exposure. This may involve using a combination of control measures.
- Control measures can include eliminating the risk, isolating the risk, using administrative controls, and implementing personal protective equipment (PPE).
Control Measures
- Eliminating the Risk: If asbestos poses a serious threat, it should be removed following guidelines in the "How to Safely Remove Asbestos Code of Practice 2011." Understand the legal requirements, methods, and notifications associated with asbestos removal.
- Isolating the Risk: When removal isn't practicable, isolation can be achieved by enclosing, encapsulating, or sealing asbestos. Using the correct tools and equipment is vital to minimize the risk of airborne asbestos.
- Administrative Controls: These controls reduce exposure by modifying work procedures. Ensure you follow safe work procedures when working around asbestos.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): In combination with other control measures, workers may need PPE. Selection and use of PPE should align with the risk assessment.
Review Risk Controls
- Regularly reviewing and updating risk controls is essential. Don't wait for incidents to occur. Review controls when they are ineffective, when new risks emerge, or as required by health and safety representatives.
- Health monitoring is necessary under certain circumstances. Asbestos management plans and registers must be updated at least every five years.
Your health is paramount, and understanding how to manage asbestos risks not only keeps you safe but also sets the stage for potential compensation payments in case of accidents or illnesses. By actively participating in asbestos management and adhering to safety regulations, you're taking a proactive stance in safeguarding your well-being and financial security. Remember, your health matters, and these measures are designed to protect it.