Emergency Procedures Flashcards

Who is responsible for ensuring an emergency plan for asbestos incidents exists?

Answer: The dutyholder or employer

The dutyholder or employer is responsible for ensuring emergency procedures are in place for potential asbestos incidents. This includes having plans for accidental disturbance, fibre release, and ensuring all relevant workers know the procedures.

During an asbestos emergency, should you turn on the building's HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system?

Answer: No — the HVAC system could spread asbestos fibres throughout the building

The HVAC system should be turned off during an asbestos emergency. The ventilation system could pick up airborne asbestos fibres and distribute them throughout the building via ductwork, dramatically increasing the contamination area.

What type of professional should be called to clean up after a significant asbestos release?

Answer: An HSE-licensed asbestos removal contractor

A significant asbestos release must be cleaned up by an HSE-licensed asbestos removal contractor with appropriate equipment, training, and disposal capabilities. Regular cleaning staff do not have the necessary equipment or training.

Following an asbestos exposure incident, what health monitoring may be recommended?

Answer: Regular lung function tests and chest X-rays, recorded in the individual's health record

Following significant asbestos exposure, health monitoring including lung function tests and chest X-rays may be recommended. These should be recorded in the individual's health record and continued over the long term due to the long latency period of asbestos diseases.

What is the correct method to dampen down an area after an accidental asbestos release?

Answer: Gently mist the area with water using a spray bottle to suppress airborne fibres

Gently misting the area with water using a fine spray helps to suppress airborne fibres and prevent further spread. Aggressive methods like pressure washing or compressed air would create more airborne fibres and worsen the contamination.

After an asbestos emergency has been resolved, when can workers return to the affected area?

Answer: Only after air monitoring confirms fibre levels are below the workplace exposure limit

Workers can only return to the affected area after professional air monitoring confirms that airborne asbestos fibre levels are below the workplace exposure limit (0.1 fibres per ml). A 4-stage clearance process is typically followed for licensed work areas.