Mesothelioma Questions

There are 4 work classifications based on level of predicted exposure .  Some of these levels require the use of a respirator.  Employers must monitor all asbestos operations.  Each construction site must have an employee deemed competent to recognize and address hazards.  An initial exposure assessment must be conducted as well as subsequent assessments throughout the project.  They must keep records of employees’ asbestos exposure and asbestos levels at sites.  Warning signs must be clearly
posted.  Employees must also be trained in proper care and handling of asbestos.  Some of the specific precautions are as follows:

1) use of local exhaust ventilation with a HEPA filter;

2) processes producing asbestos dust must be enclosed or isolated;

3)  site must have proper ventilation to move contaminated air away from employees and toward a HEPA filter;

4) use of vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters to remove asbestos dust;

5) use of wet methods or wetting agents to prevent dust formation;

6) prompt cleaning and disposal of asbestos containing materials;

7) high speed abrasive disc saws may not be used unless equipped with point-of-cut ventilation or enclosure with HEPA filters;

8) compressed air may not be used to remove asbestos unless enclosed with a ventilation system;

9) dry sweeping, shoveling, or other dry cleanup may not be used