The UK Asbestos Training Association (UKATA) is warning all workers to take the appropriate ACTION if they are unexpectedly confronted by asbestos.
“Asbestos is still out there in many buildings and all workers need to be aware of what to do if they believe they are facing this toxic substance,” said UKATA’s Technical and Operations Manager Terry Barker. “While only approved and fully trained workers should ever deal with certain types of asbestos, we have put together a top five basic tips all workers should bear in mind. Our top tips can be remembered by workers taking A.C.T.I.O.N, when it comes to Asbestos.”
Avoid. Asbestos should be avoided whenever possible. Your employer or customer should have told you if they know asbestos is present. If you are not sure, or suspect its presence, do not start work, as only a licensed contractor approved by UKATA can work on certain types of asbestos.
Category. Certain categories of asbestos are potentially more dangerous than others, as they more easily produce harmful dust. If the asbestos material is sprayed as a coating, board, or suspected as a lagging on pipes or boilers, only a UKATA trained and licensed contractor should work on these, as they are the most dangerous forms.
Training. Comprehensive Training for working on asbestos is essential. You need to be trained, competent and using the right equipment. Asbestos is one area where corners cannot be cut when it comes to training and best working practices. Anyone in doubt can contact UKATA for advice.
Inhalation. Inhaling asbestos is something that could cost you your life. When working with any kind of asbestos a proper mask must be worn. This is where training in the use of the right tools and equipment becomes essential. Just any old dust mask will not do when it comes to asbestos – always wear a proper asbestos mask at all times. Standard dust masks are ineffective.
Operation. Asbestos must be handled according to the rules and failure to follow the correct operational procedures in regard to handling and disposal risks endangering yourself and your work colleagues. This is covered in asbestos training, but the principal is to minimise the risk of dust. This can be done by using hand tools instead of power tools, keeping materials damp and ensuring a tidy workspace by cleaning as you go. Again, a brush must never be used, but instead an approved class H vacuum cleaner. Resulting asbestos waste needs to be double bagged and the waste properly labelled for safe disposal.
No known cure. Those diagnosed with Mesothelioma as a result of asbestos have a life expectancy of just 9-12 months. Handling asbestos is not a task for novices – never take risks with asbestos. If in doubt, stop work and inform the appropriate people on site.
“We hope our reminder to take ACTION will encourage all workers to stop and think about asbestos and encourage those who work in sectors that could be affected to consider the value of training for the workforce,” added Terry. “If in and doubt, call in the experts – UKATA members remain in the best position to deal with the risks posed by asbestos materials safely.”
Around 4,000 workers in the UK still die every year as a result of asbestos related illnesses and this is something UKATA is determined to change, by challenging misconceptions and ensuring the training is robust enough to ensure the safety of workers.
“For too long people have had a false sense of security when it comes to dealing with asbestos and while this is something that is changing, UKATA still has an educational job to do when it comes to warning industry of the dangers still posed by asbestos,” added Terry. “These dangers have already been recognised by the government, with forthcoming new legislation is likely to mean the demand for Training and Consultancy services offered by UKATA Members will only increase further.”
UKATA is always keen to talk to prospective Members who are 100% committed to the highest professional standards. For further information on UKATA, visit www.ukata.org.uk
ENDS
Photograph & caption: UKATA Technical and Operations Manager Terry Barker
Press contact:
Jon Gardner
BeyondPR
Mobile: 07930 697773
DDI: 0114 275 6996
Published on Thursday 13th September 2012