Essential Asbestos Disposal and Management Risks Construction Projects Must Address

What is asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was extensively utilised across various industries until studies established its link to mesothelioma and other forms of cancer. It is found in both rock and soil and consists of elongated, thin, fibrous crystals.

Asbestos is present in a variety of products, such as brake pads, gaskets, joint compounds, and roofing materials. A significant number of older building materials contained asbestos, including adhesives, flooring, insulation, plumbing systems, and roofing shingles. Moreover, certain household items, like appliances, cosmetics, and talc products, may also include asbestos.

How can asbestos impact people in the construction waste management industry?

Asbestos represents a serious health threat to professionals in the construction waste management sector. Inadequate management of materials that contain asbestos can lead to severe consequences. When these materials are disturbed, fine fibres can become airborne and inhaled, causing serious health problems such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Moreover, failing to manage asbestos properly can result in substantial financial and legal liabilities.

How should asbestos waste be disposed of?

Disposal of asbestos waste requires careful handling to prevent exposure to dangerous fibres. It is crucial that certified asbestos abatement experts oversee the procedure, ensuring that the work area is isolated and that all personnel are wearing suitable protective gear. The asbestos materials should be moistened to limit fibre release, then placed in double-bagged 6 millimetre plastic bags, sealed, and stored in leak-proof containers with appropriate labelling. These containers must then be transported to designated landfills that are equipped to manage asbestos waste safely. This diligent process protects both workers and the environment from the hazards of asbestos exposure.

How can construction professionals detect asbestos?

Asbestos detection by construction professionals involves a blend of visual inspections and laboratory testing. Trained inspectors first analyse building materials for evidence of asbestos, looking for specific patterns and manufacturing date stamps. Their focus is on areas where asbestos-containing materials are often present, such as insulation, roofing, and flooring. If asbestos is suspected, samples are collected with care by professionals in protective gear and sent to accredited laboratories. Techniques like Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) are used to accurately identify and quantify asbestos fibres, ensuring safe management practices.

What are some of the risks of not handling asbestos properly?

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that is predominantly caused by exposure to asbestos fibres, frequently due to the improper disposal and management of asbestos-containing materials. When asbestos is not handled appropriately and people are exposed to this dangerous mineral, it may result in the development of mesothelioma many years later. Symptoms of this condition include shortness of breath, chest pain, chronic coughing, and unexplained weight loss. These symptoms often present themselves in the later stages of the disease, making early diagnosis challenging. Proper disposal of asbestos is essential to prevent severe health consequences and to protect individuals from this life-threatening illness.

What should someone do if they find asbestos on a construction site?

When asbestos is identified on a construction site, it is critical to stop all work immediately and isolate the affected area to prevent further disturbance and exposure. Notify the supervisor or site manager, who should consult the building's asbestos register or survey to verify its presence. It is advisable to engage certified asbestos abatement professionals to safely assess and manage the situation. Ensure that all workers are equipped with the necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and adhere to safety guidelines during the removal process. These actions are vital for protecting everyone on site from the severe health risks posed by asbestos exposure.

Manage construction waste with our digital solution