UKATA Emergency Procedures

Question 1

If you accidentally drill into a material that starts releasing fibrous dust in a pre-2000 building, what is the FIRST thing you should do?

Accepted Answer

Stop work immediately and put down the drill

Answer

The first action is to stop work immediately. Continuing to drill would release more fibres. After stopping, you should leave the area, warn others, restrict access, and report the incident.

Question 2

After an accidental asbestos release, who should be notified?

Accepted Answer

Your supervisor, the dutyholder, and potentially the HSE

Answer

Following an accidental release, you must notify your supervisor and the dutyholder immediately. Depending on the scale of the release, the HSE may also need to be notified. This ensures proper remediation and assessment of exposure.

Question 3

What should you do with your work clothes if you have been exposed to asbestos fibres?

Accepted Answer

Bag them as potentially contaminated waste — do not take them home

Answer

Contaminated work clothes must be bagged as potentially contaminated waste and should never be taken home, as this could expose family members to asbestos fibres. This secondary exposure is known to have caused mesothelioma in family members historically.

Question 4

In an asbestos emergency, why is it important to restrict access to the affected area?

Accepted Answer

To prevent other people from being exposed to airborne asbestos fibres

Answer

Restricting access prevents other people from entering the contaminated area and being exposed to airborne asbestos fibres. The area must be sealed off until it has been professionally assessed and decontaminated.

Question 5

What record should be made following an accidental asbestos exposure incident?

Accepted Answer

A detailed record including names of exposed persons, duration, and circumstances

Answer

A detailed written record must be made including the names of all exposed persons, the estimated duration and level of exposure, and the circumstances. This record must be kept for 40 years and is essential for any future health claims.

Asbestos Awareness Practice Test

Asbestos Awareness Practice Test

UKATA Emergency Procedures