Asbestos at Work? 3 Ways to Keep Employees Safe
Posted in Asbestos Removal, on July 14, 2021
Some commercial spaces and specific jobs are more prone to the risk of asbestos exposure than others. For example, construction workers, repairmen, people working in shipyards and offices inside old buildings, and those conducting asbestos abatement in Edmonton are all more likely to develop asbestos-related health problems than the average person. Exposed workers can carry the microfibrils on their clothes and jeopardize the health of their family too. Considering the potential danger and long term health effects of this material, if there is a chance that someone might be exposed to asbestos microfibrils, it is advised to seek a professional asbestos removal Edmonton before proceeding with work in high risk spaces.
Asbestos microfibrils are invisible to the naked eye, and symptoms of exposure usually take decades to manifest, so detecting their presence without sampling and lab analysis is very challenging. However, certain indicators (like the age of the building and the state of the building materials) can suggest if there is a reason for an alarm. Poorly maintained commercial and residential buildings in Edmonton constructed before 1990 are very likely to require asbestos remediation.
Asbestos Testing
Due to the microscopic nature of asbestos microfibrils, they lie around or be airborne without anyone noticing them. The best way to know if your employees are safe is to require asbestos testing in Edmonton buildings that may contain asbestos. Careful sampling and a detailed analysis will reveal whether any microfibrils are lingering around and show the source and the scope of the problem. The test report also helps asbestos removal specialists tailor the optimal remediation plan and efficiently perform the process. If asbestos tests detect microfibrils, Call Canada’s Restoration Service for fast and safe asbestos removal in Edmonton.
Personal Protective Equipment
The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) specifies guidelines related to asbestos exposure and removal that must be followed by all Canadian employers. The concentration of airborne asbestos in the working area should not exceed the limits proposed by law. If it does, all workers at risk of exposure must wear adequate safety equipment. Respiratory masks, disposable overalls and shoe covers, gloves and safety goggles are a must in areas contaminated with friable asbestos.
Asbestos Removal
If the test results show asbestos levels above the legal limits in Edmonton, it is necessary to get asbestos removal as soon as possible. It is best to seal the contaminated area until removal specialists come in. Going through it and moving items that might have asbestos dust on them can create a risk of microfibril spread. Once the specialists come, they will isolate the area and prepare it for the operation. Hiring a certified asbestos remediation company in Edmonton ensures that the removal is performed safely, efficiently and thoroughly.
Conclusion
Asbestos is a highly hazardous material, and its presence in the working environment presents a serious health threat to all employees. If its levels exceed the legal limits, it is necessary to call a certified asbestos removal specialist in Edmonton. Reach out to trusted professionals at Canada Restoration Services and hire our experienced inspectors. CRS staff is trained to perform both small-scale and large-scale asbestos removal, offering a wide range of abatement services. All CRS inspectors follow OSHA guidelines and guarantee safe and efficient removal.
