How to Keep Protected When Working With Asbestos

Some homeowners may find it is necessary to remove material, such as concrete, which contains asbestos during any renovation works. It is possible to fully protect yourself from asbestos, but you must be aware of the dangers, and have the proper equipment to protect you.

It is always advised to either leave the material in place if at all possible, or to have a licensed asbestos removal company like ASBESTOP do the job for you. This is not always feasible, and many people prefer to remove the asbestos from their property in any case. If you are intending to remove some asbestos-filled material, this article will help you to determine which clothing to wear while carrying out the work.

Protective Clothing

Asbestos fibers are very small, and can't usually be seen as they float in the air. Due to this, there is a risk of the asbestos being released from the substance, and being inhaled; if you do not take the correct precautions when removing the asbestos this can cause family and even your neighbors to become exposed to the floating asbestos.

It is imperative that you protect your whole body when working with asbestos. Asbestos can become attached to hair and clothing, and can be released at a later time, and in a different location. The basic safety clothing includes:

• A disposable protective safety suit—with a hood—should be used. This will keep your normal clothing free from asbestos fibers and the suit can be disposed of immediately after the work has been done. Never shake or dust down the suit once you have taken it off; place directly into a plastic bag to be disposed of.
• Gloves—a good pair of work gloves is another must for working with asbestos. The asbestos fibers can cling to your skin and hair, and can be inadvertently re-released into the air if you do not cover your hands while working with asbestos.
• Work Boots—again, the asbestos fibers can cling to regular footwear. Wearing work boots, which can be hosed down after the work is done, is necessary to lower the risk of asbestos being released into the air and home.
• Air filter—this is another critical piece of equipment. All people working in the area should wear either a large (half face) air filter respirator, or a disposable air filter mouth mask. This prevents any fibers from entering your mouth and lungs.

Never allow anyone who is not suitably protected to enter an area where asbestos is being removed from a building or a roof. Consider hiring professionals to take care of this serious issue to protect your health and property.