1. ASBESTOS Information for Engineers

2. Asbestos - Introduction • What is asbestos ? • What products may contain asbestos ? • Why is asbestos a problem ? • What you should do • Safe System of Work Jane Hallett 2002

3. What is Asbestos? • A group of naturally occurring minerals that can be separated into fibres • Fibres are strong, durable and heat resistant, 30 million tons have been used in the UK • Fibres are also long, thin and flexible and have been woven into cloth Jane Hallett 2002

4. 3 Main Types of Asbestos 1. White asbestos from Canada 2. Brown asbestos from Africa 3. Blue asbestos from Africa and Australia All types are equally harmful, but there have been more illnesses reported from handling Blue Asbestos than any other Jane Hallett 2002

5. Pipe covering Insulating cement Insulating block Gaskets Floor tiles Ceiling tiles Board Ships hulls Packing materials Adhesives Sound proofing Brake/clutch assemblies Thermal seals What Products may Contain Asbestos? Jane Hallett 2002

6. Why is Asbestos a Problem? Thousands of people die each year because they breathed asbestos dust. There is no cure for asbestos related diseases. Jane Hallett 2002

7. What You Should Do Ask if asbestos is present Be aware that asbestos could be present If you are suspicious of a substance: stop work and seek advice Jane Hallett 2002

8. DO keep all materials damp use hand tools only wear a suitable respirator double bag waste label waste wash before eating or leaving site DO NOT disturb suspicious dust use power tools breath in dust use brushes or brooms casually remove waste take protective clothing home Safe System of Work -Information Only Jane Hallett 2002

9. Recap • Asbestos kills 30,000 people a year in UK • Millions of tons are present in buildings • It is safe until disturbed If unsure - STOP WORK & SEEK ADVICE Jane Hallett 2002