Tips for Preventing Asbestos Exposure in the Workplace
Posted in Asbestos Removal, on August 04, 2021
If you’re the manager or owner of a business, the safety of your employees and customers are of the utmost importance. If you notice asbestos in your office, you must act fast and ensure employees are protected until you can complete asbestos removal in Toronto. Employees can be exposed to asbestos during construction tasks, such as renovations and demolitions, so before getting started on those projects, call Canada Restoration Services for asbestos testing in Toronto to guarantee everyone's health and safety.
At Canada Restoration Services, we understand that these situations can be stressful, so here’s a list of surefire tips to prevent asbestos exposure in the workplace.
The Importance of PPE
The microscopic asbestos fibres can easily be released into the air and inhaled, so personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when dealing with asbestos in the workplace. Wearing PPE, such as goggles, foot coverings, and a face shield significantly reduces the risk of exposure. When it comes to PPE, be diligent about it; rather than an N95 mask or a paper dust mask you find at the hardware store, invest in a properly fitting respirator.
The Centre for Occupational Health & Safety (CCOHS) requires all Canadian employers to provide their employees with PPE, such as disposable coveralls, respiratory masks, and gloves. If there has been an asbestos incident in the workplace, wearing PPE is critical when it comes to your health and being around asbestos — any exposure is a risk.
Our team at Canada Restoration Services makes safety our highest priority, and we follow all OSHA guidelines to guarantee complete asbestos removal in Toronto.
Establishing Controlled Zones and Signage
Following asbestos testing in Toronto and determining where it is present, employers are required by OSHA to further protect workers. This process includes establishing regulated areas that are restricted from employees and removing all objects — aside from equipment related to performing asbestos removal in Toronto.
Additionally, all windows, doors, and other airways must be properly sealed to prevent the release of asbestos fibres into other work areas. Proper signage is required throughout the workplace, clearly indicating that work is in progress, entry is restricted, and the hazards surrounding asbestos.
Decontamination: Keeping Exposure in One Place
When it comes to asbestos, you can’t be too safe. If there is a chance you’ve been exposed to asbestos fibres, dispose of your clothes, or if you have the option, wash them at your workplace. Don’t bring any chance of exposure home. Family members of exposed workers can get sick from asbestos fibres lingering on clothes or shoes. There’s always a chance of secondary exposure, and it’s just as dangerous as direct.
As a rule of thumb, anything that leaves the workplace (tools, equipment, shoes. etc.) should be thoroughly sanitized before leaving the regulated area.
Canada Restoration Services is trained to perform both residential and commercial asbestos removal, no matter how large or small the project. Get a professional asbestos removal service in Toronto to ensure your workplace is completely safe.
Contact Canada Restoration Services to book your workplace asbestos inspection.
