What kind of mask protects against asbestos

Mold is typically caused by moisture. If water or moisture are present in the air, mold can grow on practically any surface indoors, including wood, plaster, fabric, carpet, and drywall. Asbestos can be found in a range of household and industrial products, including cement sheeting, drains and pipes, roofing materials, as well as brakes, clutches and gaskets. Currently, the PEL for asbestos is 0. As an employer, you need to ensure that no one is exposed above these limits.

Use a gas monitor to assess the safety of your workplace. The symptoms of asbestos-related illnesses and diseases may not appear until 20 or 30 years down the line. However, exposure to mold can lead to itchy, watery eyes, throat irritation, and coughing in a matter of minutes, especially if you or members of your team have asthma or an existing respiratory condition.

When wearing a respirator, after making sure you have a good mask fit, the key to getting the correct level of protection is choosing the right filter or cartridge for your respirator. This is the industry term for a HEPA rated filter. Look for that rating on the filter. Whether through ignorance or wilful negligence, the failure to use any form — or an insufficient form — of RPE from the s through to the s is one of the reasons why Britain has a growing number of people with asbestos related lung diseases.

Last year HSE reviewed its predicted annual death rate from asbestos related diseases. It moved its projection up from 4, deaths a year to more than 5, Mike Kane, Labour MP for Wythenshawe and Sale East, while tabling his Mesothelioma Amendment Bill under the ten minute rule motion this year, quoted a figure of about 60, deaths from mesothelioma in the next 30 years.

But the danger of exposure to asbestos is still very present. Asbestos can be found in any building built before the year houses, factories, warehouses, offices, schools, hospitals and retail units and some plant and equipment.

In good condition, undisturbed and properly managed, asbestos does not pose a significant health risk. It is when materials that contain asbestos are disturbed or damaged, fibres are released into the air. When these fibres are inhaled they can cause serious lung diseases such as mesothelioma, pleural plaques, asbestosis and lung cancer. This may include:. When the work is finished, the PPE except for the respirator should be taken off and disposed of in the dirty part of the decontamination area.

This is to prevent clean clothing from becoming contaminated with asbestos fibres. After vacuuming, the PPE should be wiped with a disposable, damp cloth. Training in the use of PPE should include correct use, inspection, care and maintenance, repair and replacement of components, emergency procedures and storage. Access the latest guidance on working with asbestos.

You can also find information on duties relating to work involving asbestos — licensed and unlicensed. Last updated 4 September at Asbestos Personal protective equipment PPE when working with asbestos.

Download: PDF. Index What is personal protective equipment PPE? What PPE must be worn when asbestos is or may be present? Why is PPE required? Respirators When should a respirator be worn?

What types of respirators are available? What else do I need to know about respirators? How is asbestos-contaminated PPE cleaned or disposed of?