Asbestos danger long-term problem

Press, 16 July 1980, Page 18

Asbestos danger long-term problem

Blue asbestos is no longer used in the ceilings and walls of buildings and houses, but it is expected to remain a problem for up to 30 years. The mineral was used widely for its acoustic and fire-resistant properties for 25 years before it wasfound to be a danger to health. “The real danger comes when the asbestos breaks down from a combination of age and damage and peels off ceilings and walls," says Mr J. Jordan, a supervising safety inspector with the Department of Labour. There are two methods of dealing with the material. It can be encapsulated by a special protective paint or it can be removed. Removing asbestos is a big job and very stringent regulations apply for the protection of workmen handling the material and for those in the vicinity. Special protective clothing must be worn consisting of overalls, mask, boots, and gloves, and workmen must have their own showerin o facilities. When the material is removed it must be contained in plastic bags am} taken to an approved tip for burying. Even the area where workmen are handling the material must be sealed off and an industrial vacuum cleaner used to extract dust from the air. “It is the invisible debris which is so dangerous," Mr Jordon says. “This can be inhaled and cause serious illness.” Before the material is removed from a building or house, th? operation must have the approval of the Director-General of Health and the chief construction engineer with the Department of Labour. The Medical Officer of Health and Department of Labour inspectors must then check every detail before work begins. There are three types of asbestos, which is the oldest mineral known. The blue variety of. crocidolite is the most dangerous. The other two, amosite and chrysitile, are not so much of a problem. AU three are found in most countries. . Anyone who believes

they have the substance on their property should have the material analysed, or if they wish

Report from the Department of Labour

contact the Department of Labour, which will direct them to the appropriate authority.