In the construction sector, exposure to asbestos is the main cause of workplace fatalities. Asbestos represents 76% of all fatal claims.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral found in the ground, with brilliant durability, fire resistance and insulating properties. Fibres from asbestos can float in the air for up to 30 days and can be inhaled into the lungs. These fibres are invisible to the naked eye, so it hard to spot.
Sadly, there are no safe exposure limits to asbestos fibres, making it exceptionally dangerous to be exposed to. Asbestos can cause life-threatening illnesses and there are currently no cures which have been found.
As a general rule, if a building was built between the 1940s and 1980s it is highly likely that it would contain some asbestos materials. The newer the building, the less likely it is to contain asbestos.
It is critical to note that if you feel unsure if a building contains asbestos, you need to assume that it does and not enter, as well as take the appropriate precautions.
If you find asbestos, under no circumstances should you touch it. This includes cutting, drilling, sanding, scraping, water blasting or scrubbing it.
Immediately if you find asbestos you should leave the building. All work activities on site need to be postponed and a qualified expert needs to be contacted for assistance with its removal. You should post warning signs around the site to warn anybody of the dangers. From then on, anyone who enters the site must wear appropriate respiratory protection.
The person performing the removal work must hold a Certificate of Competence.
Whilst there is nothing you can do about past exposure, you can ensure that future exposures do not lead to fatalities.
Looking for professional asbestos contractors? Union Demolition are expert in asbestos removal. We operate strictly under the guidelines set out by the New Zealand government and adhere to all safety measures and protocol guidelines. We specialise in removing asbestos from sensitive and high-risk areas such as schools and kindergartens and offer a full range of additional asbestos removal-based services. Get in touch with us today.
© 2024 • Address: 23 Pukemiro Street, Onehunga, Auckland 1061 • Phone: 022 471 7355
