• Answering Your Asbestos Awareness Questions
• How to Conduct an Asbestos Risk Assessment
• What to Do After Recent Exposure to Asbestos
• What is Gypsum in Construction?
• What is Asbestos Awareness Training & Who Needs it?
• Asbestos Awareness Course

The post Asbestos Quiz appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

In this article, we will define exactly what asbestos is and where you are likely to find it. We will also outline the different types of asbestos and how you might recognise it.

What Exactly is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring substance that was used in buildings and materials for many years to provide additional fire protection and insulation properties.

Materials made with asbestos are strong, incombustible, heat-resistant and sound-absorbent, making asbestos an attractive material for electrical and building insulation, among other uses.

In 1999, the UK banned asbestos due to an increased incidence of lung-related diseases in those working with the substance. However, any building or material manufactured or refurbished before the year 2000 may contain asbestos. Therefore, you have an increased risk of encountering it when working on pre-2000 properties.

Are you aware of the dangers that asbestos poses? Check out our Asbestos Awareness Quiz to test your knowledge. 

Where is Asbestos Found?

As asbestos was used to provide additional fire protection and insulation properties, it could be found in a number of different places.

For example, in a house, factory or office built before 2000, asbestos could be found in:

• Roof tiles.
• Asbestos Insulating Board (AIB).
• Water tanks.
• Pipe lagging.
• Ceiling tiles.
• Tile adhesive.
• Vinyl floor tiles.
• Fire breaks in ceiling voids.
• Cement guttering or pipes. 

You’ll be in danger of encountering asbestos at work if you carry out refurbishments, repairs or maintenance trades. Examples of people who are commonly at risk include:

• Builders.
• Carpenters and joiners.
• Roofing contractors.
• Heating and ventilation engineers.
• Plumbers and gas fitters.
• Electricians.

However, it is important to remember that asbestos doesn’t just affect those who work with it. If disturbed, asbestos can affect anyone in the immediate area. Fibres can also be carried on clothing, which may then impact the worker’s family and friends.

Why is Asbestos Bad?

Asbestos is a fibrous material, meaning that it is made up of fibres that are incredibly small – approximately ten times smaller than the width of a human hair.

If asbestos or ACMs are disturbed, these fibres are released into the air. If inhaled, the fibres can get trapped in the lungs, potentially causing scarring and inflammation. This affects breathing and leads to serious health problems, such as:

• Asbestos-related lung cancer. This malignant tumour of the lungs’ air passages can cause an obstruction that looks similar to lung cancer caused by smoking.
• Asbestosis and fibrosis. Scarring of the lung tissue leads to breathing difficulties and can cause further complications, including heart failure.
• Mesothelioma. A cancer of the cells that make up the lining around the outside of the lungs and inside the ribs (the pleura), or of the abdominal wall. It is fatal at the time of diagnosis. 
• Pleural plaques. These affect the pleura adjacent to the ribs, with around 20% to 60% of people exposed to asbestos developing pleural plaques.

Asbestos fibres can also cause health problems for other parts of the body. For example, asbestos warts and corns can form both on the skin and around major organs.

To learn more about asbestos exposure, have a look at our article: What are the Symptoms of Asbestos Exposure?

Friability

The risk of asbestos fibres being released and causing ill health depends on the friability of the ACM. This means how easily the material can crumble and release fibres. The greater the friability, the greater the risks of health problems.

ACMs that are more likely to be damaged and release inhalable asbestos fibres are known as friable. On the other hand, ACMs that are more resistant to damage and are therefore less likely to release harmful fibres are known as non-friable.

Friability is caused by two main factors:

• The type of materials used along with the asbestos in the ACM.
• The type of asbestos in the ACM.

For example, asbestos cement sheets or gutters contain a low percentage of asbestos and, therefore, pose less of a risk. Conversely, sprayed asbestos insulation is often almost entirely made up of asbestos and deteriorates over time, either through mechanical or weather damage. Therefore, the risks from these materials can be much higher.

You can find more information on the differences between friable and non-friable asbestos in our article, here. 

Need a Course?

Our Asbestos Awareness (Category A) training course is designed for anyone whose job role may expose them to asbestos. It explains in detail what asbestos is, where it may be encountered and what to do if you discover it.

What are the Different Types of Asbestos?

The term asbestos refers to six unique minerals belonging to two mineral families, serpentine and amphibole. All forms of asbestos are highly toxic and exposure can lead to the development of many terminal diseases, such as mesothelioma.

The three main types of asbestos that you may come across whilst carrying out building work are:

• Chrysotile (white asbestos). Chrysotile is the most commonly used type of asbestos and is often contaminated with trace amounts of tremolite. Chrysotile fibres are usually fine in texture, possessing high flexibility and good heat-resistant properties, making it ideal for use in cement, brake pads/linings and roofing materials.
• Amosite (brown asbestos). Mined mostly in Africa, amosite is a particularly strong and heat-resistant type of asbestos that was commonly used in cement sheets, plumbing insulation and electrical insulation. Though all types of asbestos are toxic, amosite asbestos exposure has a comparatively higher cancer risk.
• Crocidolite (blue asbestos). Crocidolite has very thin fibres and, if inhaled, are easily lodged in the lungs. Its thin fibres and brittle nature make crocidolite one of the most harmful forms of asbestos, as it easily breaks down and leads to asbestos exposure.

While the main forms of asbestos are often called white, blue or brown, in the majority of cases, the asbestos cannot be distinguished by colour. In all cases, accredited testing will be required to ensure that the type of asbestos is correctly identified. 

You can find more information about the different colours of asbestos in our article, here.

How to Recognise Asbestos

As we’ve already discussed, the different forms of asbestos are made up from two types of fibres: serpentine and amphibole.

Amphibole fibres is the term used for the group of asbestos types that include amosite and crocidolite. They also include a further three types of asbestos that are less commonly found: tremolite, anthophyllite and actinolite. Amphiboles have needle-like crystals and are usually dark in colour. 

Chrysotile is made up of serpentine fibres, which are curly and in sheets of crystals.

It’s essential to know that you will not be able to identify the presence of asbestos by sight alone. As we’ve established, the ‘colours’ are not a reliable way of identifying the different types of asbestos which, in itself, can appear in many shapes and forms. 

The only way to know for certain whether asbestos is present and which type it is, is to have a sample analysed by a specialist laboratory. Find out more here: How to Test For Asbestos. 

However, you must never handle or try to remove asbestos yourself. If you encounter what you suspect to be asbestos, you must not touch it. Instead, you should keep it isolated and seek specialist advice. If it is asbestos, then only professionals who are specifically trained to manage it should handle and remove it. Our article, ‘Can You Remove Asbestos Yourself?’ goes into more detail on this topic. 

As part of any health and safety management process, there should be emergency procedures in place to deal with the discovery or accidental disturbance of asbestos. Everyone who is at risk of potential exposure should understand the specific, immediate actions that need to be taken should this event occur. Check out our article for more information on what to do if you’re exposed to asbestos, here. 

We hope you’ve found this article on asbestos informative and helpful. If you have any further questions about the topics discussed in this article, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at High Speed Training. You can contact our friendly team on 0333 006 7000 or email support@highspeedtraining.co.uk.

Further Resources

• Asbestos Awareness Course (Category A)
• Answering Your Asbestos Awareness Questions
• What Are The Three Types of Asbestos Training?

The post What is Asbestos? appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

In this article, we will outline the impact of asbestos exposure and how you might spot the symptoms. We will also provide you with guidance on what to do if you believe that you have been exposed to asbestos and how the risks of exposure can be managed.

What is Asbestos Exposure?

If asbestos or asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are disturbed, the tiny asbestos fibres can be released into the air. These can then be breathed in, getting trapped in the lungs and potentially causing scarring and inflammation. This affects breathing and leads to serious health problems.

Effects of Asbestos Exposure

Some asbestos-related diseases include:

Asbestos-related lung cancer. This malignant tumour of the lungs’ air passages can cause an obstruction that looks similar to lung cancer caused by smoking.

Asbestosis and fibrosis. Scarring of the lung tissue leads to breathing difficulties and can cause further complications, including heart failure.

Mesothelioma. A cancer of the cells that make up the lining around the outside of the lungs and inside the ribs (the pleura), or of the abdominal wall.

Pleural plaques. These affect the pleura adjacent to the ribs, with around 20% to 60% of people exposed to asbestos developing pleural plaques.

Asbestos warts and corns. These can form both on the skin and around major organs.

Symptoms of Asbestos Exposure

Not all asbestos-related diseases or conditions cause symptoms. A lack of symptoms is not an indication of good health. If you believe you could have been exposed to asbestos, either recently or in the past, you must speak with your GP.

However, as the lungs are the most likely organ to be affected by the inhalation of asbestos fibres, and this presents a risk of developing cancer, you should always seek medical advice if you experience any of the following:

• Chest pain.
• Breathlessness.
• Weakness.
• Weight loss.
• Fever.
• Fatigue.
• Abdominal pain.
• Malaise.

This is not an exhaustive list but these symptoms are commonly associated with an underlying health issue and should, therefore, always be addressed. 

How Long After Asbestos Exposure Before Symptoms Occur?

There is no safe level of exposure when it comes to asbestos, but there are certain factors that can increase the risk of developing an asbestos-related disease, such as:

• The friability (how easily the materials crumble) of the ACMs.
• The amount of fibres released into the air.
• The duration of exposure.
• The degree of exposure.

There is no hard and fast rule on how long after exposure you are likely to develop symptoms, either. As we have mentioned, not all asbestos-related conditions present with symptoms and each health concern can have a variable latency period. For example, it can be anywhere between 15 to 60 years from initial exposure before mesothelioma becomes apparent, at which stage it is a fatal diagnosis. Whereas, asbestos-related lung cancer or fibrosis are often detected within 20 to 30 years of exposure. 

The ill health effects of exposure to asbestos fibres can also be worsened by smoking, with a 2013 study showing that non-smokers who are exposed to asbestos over an extended period are five times more likely to die from lung cancer than the general population.

Looking for a Course?

Our Asbestos Awareness Training provides you with the knowledge you need to help keep yourself and others safe from the risks of asbestos exposure. This is essential for anyone who could potentially be exposed to asbestos during their work.

What Should You Do After Recent Exposure to Asbestos?

As part of any health and safety management processes, there should be emergency procedures in place to deal with the discovery or accidental disturbance of asbestos. Everyone who is at risk of potential exposure should understand the specific, immediate actions that need to be taken should this event occur. 

Initial key steps to take are:

• Stop work immediately and put up warning signs.
• Keep everyone out of the area.
• Report the problem to the person in charge.
• Follow the left-hand column of the EM1 flowchart if the material does contain asbestos and follow all stated actions.

The HSE EM1 flowchart is a key guidance document provided by the HSE. You can access this here.

How to Prevent Asbestos Exposure

The primary way to ensure the risks of asbestos exposure are managed effectively, is to ensure that The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012) are adhered to at all times. The regulations cover the key duties of those in control of places where asbestos may be present, including identifying and managing it and ensuring that others are aware of its presence.

Your personal responsibility to manage the risks will depend on your position. For example, under the regulations, employers and premises owners have additional responsibilities to employees. Employers are responsible for ensuring a risk assessment that addresses the controls for asbestos is undertaken, drawing up a written plan of work for any work which may disturb asbestos and an emergency plan outlining the correct actions to take in the event of discovery or accidental disturbance of asbestos. 

Regardless of your role, it is vital that you comply with the regulations, follow any risk assessments, plans and protocols in place, and work in line with any safety measures required, such as avoiding certain areas and using certain personal protective equipment (PPE) or respiratory protective equipment (RPE) when advised. 

You must also complete the appropriate training for your role and responsibilities. The different types of training includes:

• Asbestos Awareness Training (Category A).
• Non-Licensed Asbestos Training (Category B).
• Licensed Asbestos Work (Category C).

To find out more on the most appropriate category of training for you, take a look at our article on the Three Types of Asbestos Training.

It is essential that everyone, particularly those most likely to work with or around asbestos, are aware of the dangers it can pose to health. By understanding how to manage the risk of exposure and how to act in the event of discovery or accidental disturbance of this dangerous material, you will be better able to protect yourself and those around you from harm.

Further Resources:

• Asbestos Awareness Course (Category A)
• What is Asbestos Awareness Training & Who Needs it?
• What is an Asbestos Management Plan?

The post What to Do if Exposed to Asbestos appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

In this article we’ll outline what gypsum is and the important role it plays in the construction industry. We’ll also explain the risks associated with gypsum powder and the relationship between gypsum and asbestos in construction.

What is Gypsum?

Gypsum is a soft sulphate mineral with a white or grey colour, known scientifically as calcium sulphate dihydrate. It has the chemical formula CaSO4 2H2O, meaning it’s made up of calcium, sulphur, oxygen and water.

It is a naturally occurring mineral found in sedimentary rock layers and forms when water evaporates in mineral-rich marine soil environments. As time passes, more water evaporates, more minerals are brought to the surface and a solid deposit forms – this is gypsum. 

Gypsum deposits are found and mined worldwide, from the US and Brazil to Russia and Thailand. It is most commonly extracted using surface mining, then crushed using industrial machines and screened to sort it into different-sized pieces with different commercial uses. 

The mineral has been used in society for thousands of years. For example, alabaster – a solid form of gypsum – was used by ancient civilizations to create sculptures, while gypsum powder was used as a building material for the Egyptian pyramids. 

Today, gypsum can be found in the walls, floors and ceilings of many buildings, in fertilisers, as a food additive, in toothpaste, in medicine for creating casts and in many other places. Gypsum is hugely beneficial in our modern society, but it has its most significant uses in construction, where its properties, such as sound insulation and fire resistance, have improved the safety and efficiency of construction projects. 

Types of Gypsum in Construction

If you haven’t heard of gypsum before, you may be surprised at the number of building materials made from, or containing, gypsum. When added to building materials, gypsum improves that material’s functional and structural properties, meaning gypsum-based materials are used widely and frequently in construction. 

When used in building materials for construction, some of the properties gypsum transfers to that material include:

• Heat resistance. 
• Moisture resistance.
• Sound absorbency.
• Fire resistance.
• Strength and durability – including crack resistance. 
• Fast setting and hardening. 

What is Gypsum Powder?

In construction, gypsum is most often used in powder form. When solid, natural gypsum is heated up, it loses some or all of its water molecules, turning it into a powder. In the construction industry, this is known as plaster. Depending on how much heat is applied to the gypsum, you can create different types of gypsum plaster with varying construction uses. 

When water is added to the plaster, it sets and becomes solid gypsum again. This allows the gypsum to be moulded into almost any shape or smoothed flat for surfaces, providing many uses for construction. 

How is Gypsum Used in Construction?

Some of the main uses of gypsum in construction today include, but are not limited to: 

• Plasterboard: Also known as drywall or gypsum board, plasterboard is made from a gypsum core, which sometimes contains additives to improve its structural qualities. The core is sandwiched between thick paper called a backer and facer. Plasterboard has fire resistant and sound proofing properties, is light, quick to install and cheap. This makes it a popular choice of material for building interior walls, including partition walls and ceilings, meaning most modern residential, industrial and commercial buildings will contain gypsum. 
• Decorative plaster: When gypsum is heated to make plaster, this is known as plaster of Paris. Plaster of Paris is useful for creating moulds, models and casts in construction and decorating. It is also quick drying and usually shrink and crack resistant once dry. 
• Concrete: Gypsum is added to cement to increase the time taken for the cement to dry and harden, this improves the stability of the resulting concrete. 
• Gypsum fibreboard: Similar to plasterboard, gypsum fibreboard is used to line walls, ceilings, roofs and floors. It has soundproofing qualities as well as being shock and humidity resistant. 
• Building plaster: Gypsum plaster is used in walls and ceilings. It is easy to apply and sets quickly making it a popular choice of building material. 
• Plaster block: This comes in the form of gypsum tiles which are used in ceilings and gypsum blocks which are used for partitions in buildings. Their fire resistance makes them useful for projects like public buildings or buildings with a high fire risk. 
• Gypsum-based self-levelling screed: Used for ground levelling in buildings, this is a self-levelling mortar that can also be used as a base for ground decorative materials. It is stronger, more thermally stable and less prone to cracks than cement mortar. 

It’s clear that building materials containing gypsum are used at some point during the construction of most buildings, showing just how useful and effective it is for the industry. However, because gypsum has been used in construction for so long, there’s a risk that some of these gypsum-based materials could also be contaminated with asbestos. 

Does Gypsum Contain Asbestos?

The simple answer to this question is no, in its natural form gypsum does not contain asbestos. However, according to the Health and Safety Executive, there is a risk to health when working with gypsum-based plasterboard, if gypsum dust becomes airborne, as the dust may contain asbestos fibres. With this warning in mind, it’s unsurprising that people may believe gypsum contains asbestos. 

Although this is not the case, there is a link between gypsum and asbestos in the construction industry which means that asbestos control measures must be taken in some scenarios when working with gypsum-based building materials.

Does Plasterboard Contain Asbestos?

In the 1930s, gypsum plasterboard became a popular building material in the construction industry. At the same time, another mineral was becoming a popular addition to construction building materials – asbestos. Construction workers, and the wider population were unaware of the serious health risks we know about today, that come from inhaling and ingesting asbestos fibres. 

Asbestos was viewed in the same light as gypsum – as a useful substance which could improve the properties of building materials and the efficiency of construction projects. Like gypsum, asbestos was an effective insulator and strengthener, had fire resistant and sound proofing properties and could protect against corrosion. For these reasons, asbestos was used as an additive in various building materials – including in plasterboard. This means that in buildings constructed between the 1930s, when using plasterboard became popular, and the 1990s, when the use of asbestos was prohibited, there’s a chance that the plasterboard in the walls and ceiling will contain asbestos. 

When plasterboard is painted, the asbestos becomes sealed inside and the risk of harm is greatly reduced as asbestos fibres need to be airborne to reach the lungs. However, if that plasterboard were to be disturbed or damaged, then the asbestos fibres could be released and become dangerous. This means that if you are looking to do construction on a building which was built during this time period, it’s extremely important that the area is tested for asbestos and a risk assessment is carried out first. If you’d like more information on how to carry out an asbestos risk assessment, check out our article, here.

It has become common environmental practice in the construction industry to recycle old gypsum plasterboard into new plasterboard. To do this, the boards are broken down to a powder, at which point the powder is tested for asbestos. As it has been illegal since 1999 to use asbestos, if the tests identify asbestos in plaster then it cannot be reused. 

It isn’t just plasterboard produced during this time that poses an asbestos risk – in fact, one of the most common materials asbestos was used in during this time was joint compound which supports plasterboard. Joint compound is made primarily from gypsum powder but when using asbestos was still legal, asbestos was often also included in the mix. Again, in its solid form it isn’t necessarily dangerous to you, but as soon as dust or powder is produced, allowing asbestos fibres into the air, there becomes a serious risk of long-term harm. 

As well as the risk of gypsum-based building materials containing asbestos as an additive, asbestos-free building materials can also become contaminated if installed in a building with materials containing asbestos. So, even if a gypsum-based material didn’t contain asbestos when it was made, it can still become contaminated after being installed. 

Want to Learn More?

Our Asbestos Awareness course teaches you about what asbestos is and where you might encounter it, as well as the dangers of working with asbestos and what to do if you discover it, helping you to keep yourself and others safe from harm.

Can Gypsum Cause Harm?

Although natural gypsum doesn’t contain asbestos, there is a risk that gypsum-based building materials will be contaminated with asbestos if made before asbestos was banned in 1999. However, it is the asbestos fibres and not the gypsum itself that poses the most severe risk to your health.

According to the Health and Safety Executive, asbestos is the biggest occupational disease risk to construction workers. 

Despite gypsum being nontoxic, if ingested or inhaled regularly, any construction dust can cause serious harm to health, including gypsum dust. There should be control measures in place to protect workers in the construction industry from construction dust and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations sets strict legal limits on the amount of construction dust someone can be exposed to. 

In this article, you’ve learnt what gypsum is and how important it is for the construction industry, as well as the risks associated with gypsum powder and its relationship to asbestos. We hope you’ve found this article helpful and informative, whether you work in the construction industry or just want to learn more about a substance around us. 

Further Resources: 

• What is Asbestos Awareness Training & Who Needs it?
• What is Asbestos?
• How to Conduct an Asbestos Risk Assessment
• Asbestos Quiz

The post What is Gypsum in Construction? appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

In this article, we’ll outline what an asbestos management plan is, why asbestos management plans are so important and how they can help to manage the risks of asbestos.

What is an Asbestos Management Plan?

As someone with responsibility for the safety of non-domestic premises, the law states that you have a duty to manage asbestos and therefore names you as the ‘dutyholder’ for that premises. This means that any asbestos present in your building must be identified and managed to prevent it causing any risks to health – something that can be done with an effective asbestos management plan drawn up by a qualified person.

Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations (CAR) 2012, dutyholders are defined as any of the following:

• Owners of non-domestic premises.
• Anyone responsible for a premises – with or without a contract or tenancy agreement.
• Anyone with overall responsibility for maintenance and repairs to a building.

An asbestos management plan helps you to ensure that you’ve carried out an effective asbestos risk assessment. It involves locating the sources of asbestos, assessing the risks to health and determining what action to take as a result – all vital information for anyone who may encounter ACMs as part of their work.

Looking to Learn More?

Do you work in an environment where you may accidentally encounter asbestos or asbestos containing materials? Then our Asbestos Awareness (Category A) training is essential for learning more on managing the risks.

Why is an Asbestos Management Plan Important?

Having an asbestos management plan is important because it ensures you are managing the risks from asbestos effectively. It also gives your employees and customers peace of mind, knowing that the legal requirements are being met and that their health is being appropriately safeguarded.

For employees and contractors, your asbestos management plan signals that you have carried out a full asbestos risk assessment of the premises and can confidently state where asbestos is or may be located.

Note that construction, demolition or maintenance work must not begin in a premises until you have an asbestos management plan in place.

Who Needs an Asbestos Management Plan?

An asbestos management plan is needed by both small and large premises, regardless of the type of premises or the number of people who may be present. This includes members of the public, such as customers in a shop, as well as employees.

Asbestos was only used as a building material in premises built before the year 2000 so, if you know for certain that your premises was built after 2000, then it’s much less likely to contain asbestos and an asbestos management plan may not be required. Bear in mind, however, that just because a building is a ‘new build’, it could be built on a brownfield site that is contaminated with asbestos or it may house old equipment or machinery made from asbestos. In all cases, it’s important to never assume that asbestos isn’t present.

The dutyholder can inspect their premises, gather information on previous asbestos surveys and create a basic asbestos register based on their findings, but it’s recommended that a competent asbestos surveyor creates the asbestos management plan for your premises. 

Asbestos Management Plan Requirements

Your plan can be a computer document or a written record but it should be easy to read and easy to find by anyone who needs to see it. An asbestos management plan typically includes the following sections:

• Who has responsibility for managing asbestos. The plan must state exactly who is responsible for what, including their name and job title.
• The asbestos register. This states precisely where asbestos is located or might be located in the premises.
• The plan for work involving ACMs. How exactly should work be carried out to avoid disturbing any known or potential asbestos?
• The schedule for monitoring the condition of ACMs. The condition of asbestos containing materials can deteriorate over time and so must be monitored and checked at least annually. Note that any testing for asbestos must be done by a qualified expert and any removal of asbestos must be done by an HSE-licensed asbestos contractor.
• How people will be informed about the plan. This includes everyone who is going to work on the fabric of the building, such as decorators, roofers, plasterers, plumbers, electricians, engineers and surveyors, to name a few.

Your asbestos management plan should be updated by a designated person – usually the dutyholder or another knowledgeable manager – whenever any work is carried out on ACMs in your premises. It’s vital that the plan is up-to-date and that everyone is encouraged to read it before carrying out any sort of work that may disturb asbestos in your premises.

In this article, you’ve learnt about the importance of having an asbestos management plan in place if you are the dutyholder of a non-domestic premises. If disturbed by building work, asbestos can be extremely hazardous to health, so it’s essential that you’ve planned the work correctly and recognise the risks it can present.

Further Resources:

• Asbestos Awareness (Category A) Training
• What are the Three Types of Asbestos Training?
• How to Conduct an Asbestos Risk Assessment
• Asbestos Quiz
• What is Asbestos Awareness Training & Who Needs it?
• What to Do After Recent Exposure to Asbestos

The post What is an Asbestos Management Plan? appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

There are six main types of asbestos and they are often characterised by their colours. In this article, we’ll outline each of the asbestos colours that you may encounter in the course of your work, look at which are the most dangerous asbestos colours and explain what they were used for before their use was banned.

What are the Different Types of Asbestos?

There are two main groups of asbestos: amphiboles (dark-coloured asbestos) and serpentines (light-coloured asbestos). Within these groups are six different types of asbestos, known as chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, actinolite, anthophyllite and tremolite – we’ll look at the colours of each type of asbestos in this article.

Top Tip

The three most common asbestos colours that you’re most likely to come across whilst working are chrysotile (white asbestos), amosite (brown asbestos) and crocidolite (blue asbestos).

Whilst the most common asbestos types have colours associated with their names, it’s important to note that the asbestos-containing material itself is unlikely to appear to be any of these colours. In fact, in the majority of cases, asbestos cannot be distinguished by colour at all, even in its mineral form, and accredited testing must be carried out to ensure that the type of asbestos is correctly identified.

All types and colours of asbestos have the potential to cause significant harm to health if they are disturbed, as is often the case when carrying out any sort of maintenance, building or demolition work on a building built before the ban on asbestos in 1999. If you work in a trade that may disturb ACMs, then it’s important that you’re aware of the symptoms of asbestos exposure and what to do after recent exposure to asbestos, as breathing in air that contains asbestos dust and fibres can lead to asbestos-related diseases.

Looking to Learn More?

Need to know more about asbestos for work? Take a look at our articles on ‘Who Needs Asbestos Awareness Training’ and the ‘Three Types of Asbestos Training’, or visit our Asbestos Awareness (Category A) online training course to update your knowledge.

White Asbestos: Chrysotile

Chrysotile, also known as white asbestos, is the most commonly used form of asbestos. It’s estimated that over 95% of the asbestos used around the world was chrysotile before it was banned as a building material in the UK in 1999. Chrysotile is a serpentine asbestos, meaning that its fibres appear curly.

Chrysotile is called white asbestos because, in mineral form, it appears pale in colour – from grey-white to grey-green. Due to this variance in colour, however, note that the presence of chrysotile cannot be identified simply by its colour and specialist asbestos testing is required in all situations.

Pre-1999, white asbestos was used to make things such as cement, insulation, pipe lagging, roofing materials, gaskets and brake pads.

Brown Asbestos: Amosite

Amosite, also known as brown asbestos, is a particularly strong and heat-resistant form of asbestos. Amosite is an amphibole asbestos, meaning that its fibres appear needle-like. Its use was banned in the UK in 1985 because it’s considered one the most dangerous asbestos colours, as its crystalline structure makes it more likely to be inhaled if disturbed.

Amosite is called brown asbestos because, in mineral form, it appears to look brown, though it can also be coloured pale grey or green. Due to this variance, note that the presence of amosite cannot be identified simply by its colour and specialist asbestos testing is required in all situations.

Pre-1985, brown asbestos was used to make things such as cement sheets, insulation (chemical, electrical, thermal and plumbing), fire protection, pipe lagging, tiles and gaskets.

Blue Asbestos: Crocidolite

Crocidolite, also known as blue asbestos and sometimes referred to as riebeckite, is a particularly strong type of amphibole asbestos, meaning that its fibres appear needle-like in structure. Its use was banned in the UK in 1985 due to how dangerous crocidolite can be to inhale if disturbed.

Crocidolite is called blue asbestos because, in mineral form, it appears grey-blue or green-blue in colour. Due to this variance in colour, however, note that the presence of crocidolite cannot be identified simply by its blue colour and specialist asbestos testing is required in all situations.

Pre-1985, blue asbestos was used for insulation boards, spray-on insulation, thermal insulation, fire protection, electrical wires and ceiling tiles.

Actinolite Asbestos

Actinolite is a less commonly used form of asbestos. It is a type of amphibole asbestos, meaning that its fibres appear needle-like in structure. Its use was banned in the UK in 1985 due to how dangerous actinolite fibres can be to inhale if disturbed.

Actinolite is a dark-coloured form of asbestos and is generally green, grey-green or green-black in colour. Due to this variance, note that the presence of actinolite cannot be identified simply by its colour and specialist asbestos testing is required in all situations.

Pre-1985, actinolite was used in lightweight forms of insulation, concrete materials, structural fireproofing and many gardening products.

Anthophyllite Asbestos

Anthophyllite is a rare type of asbestos that has a brittle mineral structure. It is a type of amphibole asbestos, meaning it has needle-like fibres that can be dangerous if inhaled. Its use was banned in the UK in 1985 along with all other amphiboles.

Anthophyllite is a dark-coloured form of asbestos and can be brown, grey-brown yellow-brown in colour. Due to this variance, and due to its similarity in appearance to other amphiboles, note that the presence of anthophyllite cannot be identified simply by its colour and specialist asbestos testing is required in all situations.

Pre-1985, anthophyllite was rarely used as a building material, but can sometimes be found in cement products, insulation, flooring and roofing materials.

Tremolite Asbestos

Tremolite is a particularly strong, flexible and heat-resistant form of asbestos that can be spun and woven into cloth. It’s a type of amphibole asbestos, meaning that it has needle-like fibres that are hazardous if disturbed and inhaled. Tremolite is also prevalent in talc, which puts talc miners at particular risk. Its use was banned in the UK in 1985.

Tremolite is a dark-coloured form of asbestos and can appear grey, grey-white or grey-green in colour. Due to this variance, and due to its similarity to other amphiboles, note that the presence of tremolite cannot be identified simply by its colour and specialist asbestos testing is required in all situations.

Pre-1985, tremolite was used in fireproof fabric, paints, sealants, plumbing materials, roofing materials and insulation.

In this article, you’ve learnt about the main asbestos colours and the building materials they were used for before their use was banned in the UK in 1999. We hope that you’ve found the information in this article helpful, but don’t hesitate to get in touch with High Speed Training or take a look at our Asbestos Awareness (Category A) course here if you need to know more.

Further Resources: 

• Can You Remove Asbestos Yourself?
• How to Conduct an Asbestos Risk Assessment
• Answering Your Asbestos Awareness Questions
• What is Gypsum in Construction?
• Asbestos Quiz

The post Asbestos Colours: What is the Most Dangerous Asbestos Colour? appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

Due to the nature of the plumbing profession, there are times where health and safety can be compromised. A 2019 report undertaken by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that within the plumbing industry, 2,930 workers (per 100,000 people) experienced problems with respiratory illnesses and skin diseases. As plumbers repeatedly use their hands as their main tool, they are exposed to various chemicals and materials. Alongside this, plumbers may over wash their hands due to being exposed to numerous substances, which can cause contact dermatitis, irritation, inflammation and cracking.

This article will discuss several plumbing hazards and risks, including asbestos, confined spaces and slips, trips and falls. It will additionally detail the importance of completing a plumbing risk assessment and provide you with a downloadable template.

What are the Risks Associated with Plumbing?

Working as a plumber will expose you to a variety of plumbing hazard and risks, so it is crucial to be aware of the potential dangers you may encounter. Outlined below are a few examples of risks that can be found within the plumbing industry.

Asbestos

Plumbers are often exposed to asbestos more than other professionals as they are regularly working in places with an unknown building history. Because of its fire-resistant qualities, asbestos was historically used as pipe, pump, valve and gasket insulation for years. Inhalation of the deadly fibres can cause numerous health problems, such as pleural thickening, asbestosis, mesothelioma and asbestos-related lung cancers, all of which currently have no cure. Exposure to asbestos is the number one cause of respiratory death and affects many people in their workplace. The HSE estimates that 5,000 people die every year from asbestos-related diseases. Furthermore, according to figures from Cancer Research UK, there are around 2,500 deaths from mesothelioma in the UK each year.

Working at Heights

Work at height means work in any place, including a place at or below ground level, where if measures required by the Work at Height Regulations 2005 are not taken, a person could fall a distance liable to cause personal injury. The regulations additionally include obtaining access to, or egress from, a place of work at height. It is crucial for plumbers to recognise that even being just a few feet off the ground is a risk. Working at heights can cause plumbers to slip or fall, alongside the potential of being struck by falling objects. Furthermore, working on ladders for long periods of time can cause muscle strain in the legs, foot problems and back pains.

Confined Spaces

According to HSE, a confined space is a place which is substantially enclosed, and where serious injury can occur from hazardous substances or conditions within the space, for example, a lack of oxygen. Each year, there are many unnecessary deaths from people working in confined spaces. Storage tanks, pipes, sewers, ducts and boilers can be a challenge for plumbers as the level of oxygen is not average, which can lead to breathing difficulties. Additionally, plumbers may have to repair or replace services within small cupboards, low loft spaces and under floorboards and sinks. This poses a threat of musculoskeletal injuries, head injuries, back and neck problems, as well as cuts and abrasions from slipped tools.

Slips, Trips and Falls

Within the plumbing industry, slips, trips and falls are extremely common. The HSE’s annual health and safety statistics shows that slips, trips and falls account for 30% of all non-fatal injuries at work. Due to working within wet environments, plumbers are often exposed to an increased risk of slips, trips and falls. Water is likely to get onto the floor regularly, consequently resulting in a prime slip risk. As plumbing routinely involves working in confined spaces, there is often a low level of lighting within the work area. This can lead to being unable to detect obstacles and contaminants, again, leading to slips, trips and falls. Uneven flooring or missing flooring is another recurrent occurrence for plumbers. Flooring may need to be lifted to access plumbing which poses a risk within the working environment. Some injuries that can arise from slips, trips and falls in a plumbing setting include sprains or strains, broken bones and back injuries due to the impact.

Need a Course?

Take a look at our wide range of Health & Safety Courses to ensure that you understand the most common health and safety risks in your workplace, from Asbestos Awareness to Working At Height.

Why are Risk Assessments for Plumbing Important?

It is vital that employers of plumbers, or self-employed plumbers complete a risk assessment to identify what has the potential to cause harm and the ways to minimise those risks, in order to prevent harm. Plumbers are trained to troubleshoot issues, install and maintain plumbing systems. Nevertheless, the work of plumbers goes beyond the provision of plumbing systems. They must additionally be aware of the risks associated with plumbing installations and how to follow the control measures put in place by their employer.

The HSE define risk assessments as a step-by-step process for controlling health and safety risks caused by hazards in the workplace. Accordingly, risk assessments form an integral part of an occupational health and safety management plan.

To comply with regulatory requirements, employers of plumbers, or self-employed plumbers must abide by both The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (HSWA) and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (MHSWR). These acts place duties on both employers and the self-employed to ensure that they have assessed the risk to:

a) Their own health and safety at work.

b) The health and safety of other people they work with (including the client and any others in the vicinity that maybe affected by their acts or omissions)

There are several fundamental benefits of completing a plumbing risk assessment. A few examples are detailed below.

Awareness of Hazards and Risks

One of the primary advantages of a risk assessment is that it provides the capability to recognise, evaluate and control any hazards within the work setting. It additionally identifies who may be at risk, for example, the plumbers themselves, contractors, or members of the public.

Adherence to Legislation

Completing a risk assessment demonstrates to employees and external bodies such as the HSE, that ample steps have been taken to protect people from harm and comply with the appropriate legislation.

Reduction of Costs

Furthermore, carrying out a plumbing risk assessment can reduce the likelihood of incidents occurring in the workplace. This can lead to reduced costs, such as training and insurance costs, through being proactive instead of reactive.

Free Plumbing Risk Assessment Template

We have created a plumbing risk assessment template which can be downloaded by clicking the link below. The employers of plumbers, or self-employed plumbers can utilise the risk assessment to establish what has the potential to cause harm and the ways to minimise those risks, in order to prevent harm. Below are some examples of plumbing hazards that may be identified in an assessment and what measures can be implemented to minimise the level of risk.

Asbestos

Prior to breaking out wall panels or accessing service ducts, check the demolition asbestos survey before commencing any work. If any asbestos is found immediately cease work and evacuate the area.

Working at Heights

Aim to undertake as much work as possible from ground level. Ensure that the equipment used is suitable and able to withstand the job, as well well-maintained and regularly checked. Additionally, do not overload ladders – consider the equipment or materials that are being carried before working at height.

Confined Spaces

With regards to confined spaces, it is critical that the atmosphere is monitored. One key way to minimise the risks to plumbers working in confined spaces is to ventilate the space or provide breathing apparatus. This is vital if the air inside the space has any gas, fumes or vapour present. Another measure is ensuring appropriate clothing is worn, namely protective clothing and wearing shoes with a good grip. Employers of plumbers, or self-employed plumbers must also provide and/or undertake sufficient training where relevant, to ensure they know how to carry out work in a safe manner.

Slips, Trips and Falls

As water is considerably hazardous for slips, it is vital that any spillages and/or leakages are immediately addressed. Attention should also be given to the choice of footwear worn – sturdy non-slip soles and upper foot protection are suitable choices. Ensure that they fit correctly and are properly fastened. Prior to commencing work, you should make the area well-lit and free from obstacles. Furthermore, keep the work area tidy, including managing cables from power tools and be aware of loose or ripped floor coverings.

What to Read Next:

• Health & Safety Courses
• Can You Remove Asbestos Yourself?
• A Guide to the Most Common Workplace Hazards
• Risk Assessment Quiz

The post Plumbing Risk Assessment: Free Template appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

To ensure the health and wellbeing of yourself and those who may be present, you must understand where you may encounter asbestos. It is also important that you know what to do if you disturb asbestos. This is a possibility for many occupations, such as for construction workers or landlords.

There are three different types of asbestos training available: Asbestos Awareness Training (Category A), Non-Licensed Asbestos Training (Category B), and Licensed Asbestos Work (Category C). This article will explain what the first type, Asbestos Awareness Training (Category A), covers, why it is beneficial and who needs to take it.

What Should Asbestos Awareness Training Cover?

Asbestos awareness training is suitable for anyone who may encounter asbestos as part of their job, but are not required to work with asbestos or conduct asbestos removal. Although they do not work with asbestos-containing materials, they may still be exposed to risks. It is the lowest level of asbestos training and is intended to train people in what these risks are, and how to avoid them and disturbing asbestos. It provides learners with the basic knowledge and skills needed to keep themselves and others safe from asbestos.

The HSE provides information regarding what the law requires for asbestos training content in order for professionals to gain the required level of knowledge.

For asbestos awareness training, information, instruction and training should cover:

• The properties of asbestos and how to recognise it.
• The ill-health effects asbestos exposure can have on health. This includes the increased risk of developing lung cancer for workers who smoke.
• The types, uses and likely occurrence of asbestos and asbestos materials in both buildings and plant.
• How to avoid the risk of exposure to asbestos by following the control measures that are in place to manage this.
• The general procedures that you must follow to deal with an emergency. For example, in response to an uncontrolled release of asbestos dust into the workplace.

Online Asbestos Awareness Training

The HSE recognises that online learning is a popular method of providing asbestos awareness training. It must meet the requirements of Regulation 10 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and the supporting Approved Code of Practice L143 ‘Managing and working with asbestos’. This is a legal requirement that we will explain in more detail later in this article.

Need Asbestos Awareness Training?

High Speed Training provides an online Asbestos Awareness Training (Category A) training course that is CPD accredited and approved by the The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) and Independent Asbestos Training Providers (IATP) approved. You can find out more about it by visiting our website.

Different job roles will require a different level of asbestos training. If you require more information on this, you can consult our dedicated article, ‘What Are The Three Types of Asbestos Training?’. You may want to learn more about what asbestos actually is, in which case our ‘What is Asbestos?’ article may be useful.

Is it a Legal Requirement?

The relevant level of asbestos training is a legal requirement under Regulation 10 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. Specifically, this regulation states that “Every employer must ensure that [their] employee[s] are given adequate information, instruction and training where that employee is, or is liable to be, exposed to asbestos, or if that employee supervises such employees.”

This will ensure that employees can carry out their work effectively and safely. Employers have a legal duty to consider which type of asbestos training is suitable for their employees to meet the requirement of providing ‘adequate’ training.

Specifically, Asbestos Awareness (Category A) training is a legal requirement for anyone who may encounter asbestos but is not required to work with it. For example, it is suitable and a requirement for an employee who needs to avoid work that may disturb asbestos during any normal work. This may be because the fabric of a building is being worked on, or other items which might contain asbestos.

Some job roles which may require asbestos awareness training include:

• Construction workers.
• Demolition workers.
• Roofers.
• Plasterers.
• Heating engineers.
• Ventilation engineers.
• Carpenters and joiners.
• Plumbers.

This list is not exhaustive. It is your employer’s duty to assess the risks that employees will be exposed to, including those posed by asbestos, and to plan the appropriate level of training accordingly.

If workers are going to be carrying out work which will deliberately disturb asbestos, then they require a higher level of information, instruction and training, in addition to asbestos awareness. If this is the case, employers may wish to consult the HSE’s website for further guidance to ensure they meet their legal requirements under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

Who Do the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 Apply to?

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 are the main regulations concerned with the prevention and control of exposure to asbestos. There are two main sets of dutyholders who are responsible for complying with the Regulations.

Firstly, the Regulations apply to anyone who is responsible for the maintenance and repairs of non-domestic premises, such as buildings and other structures and their surroundings. This applies to building owners themselves, and to those responsible for buildings or parts of buildings, whether or not they have a contract.

In addition, employers are also considered dutyholders who have a legal duty under the Regulations if they oversee any work which is liable to expose their employees to asbestos. 

Employers must identify the presence of asbestos and carry out a risk assessment that outlines the control measures needed to manage asbestos exposure. They must also draw up a written plan of work for any work that involves asbestos, such as maintenance to the fabric of a building, before the work commences.

Benefits of Asbestos Awareness Training

From a health and safety perspective, asbestos awareness training is incredibly important for employees to have. Asbestos is extremely hazardous to health, with historic exposure to airborne asbestos fibres being the single largest cause of death to workers in the UK. This accounts for an estimated 5,000 deaths a year in the UK due to past exposure.

Asbestos exposure is often not immediately harmful to health. The onset of an asbestos-related disease, such as lung cancer, tends to occur between 15 to 60 years after the initial exposure to fibres. This means that workers may not notice the damage that asbestos fibres are causing to their health until it is too late. 

Asbestos awareness training is beneficial because it makes workers aware of the severity of the risks posed by asbestos. It provides the knowledge and skills needed to work in a safe manner to avoid disturbing asbestos, and explains how to deal with asbestos-related emergencies, should they occur. This will help to ensure you keep yourself and others safe from potential asbestos exposure.

You should now understand more about the lowest level of asbestos training, asbestos awareness (Category A) and why it is important for employers to ensure that their employees have the required information, instruction and training. As well as being a legal requirement under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, asbestos awareness training will help you to work safely to avoid the serious risk and long-term health consequences of asbestos exposure to yourself and others in the workplace.

Further Resources:

• Can You Remove Asbestos Yourself?
• Answering Your Asbestos Questions
• What to Do After Recent Exposure to Asbestos
• Asbestos Colours: What is the Most Dangerous Asbestos Colour?
• What is Gypsum in Construction?
• Asbestos Quiz

The post What is Asbestos Awareness Training & Who Needs it? appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

Regulation 10 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 states that “Every employer must ensure that [their] employee[s] are given adequate information, instruction and training where that employee is, or is liable to be, exposed to asbestos, or if that employee supervises such employees.”

In order to meet the requirement of providing ‘adequate’ training, it’s important for employers to consider which specific type of asbestos training their staff need. Do you know which level is right for you? In this article, we’ll look at what various types of asbestos training cover and which one is suitable for certain job roles.

How To Determine What Type of Asbestos Training Staff Require

The specific type of asbestos training that staff should receive depends on the work they carry out. The employer of a business is responsible for organising training, so it is their duty to assess the risks that the workers will be exposed to, including those posed by asbestos, and then plan appropriate training accordingly.

Training is generally split into three categories, which helps you identify which is most suitable:

• Asbestos Awareness Training (Category A).
• Non-Licensed Asbestos Training (Category B).
• Licensed Asbestos Work (Category C).

All asbestos training will make staff aware of asbestos risks, what control measures must be in place, and how to carry out their specific work activities safely. However, each of these categories provide different levels of knowledge: Category A is a more fundamental awareness level for informing staff of risks, while Category C is designed for high risk work that must be carried out by licensed contractors.

Below is a breakdown of the three categories, so you can identify which job roles require which one. It’ll also make you aware of what information each should contain.

Asbestos Awareness Training (Category A)

Asbestos awareness training is a fundamental level designed for people who do not directly work with asbestos-containing materials, but who may be exposed to risks. It focuses on making workers aware of how to avoid the risks and avoid potentially disturbing asbestos.

Examples of job roles that asbestos awareness training is designed for include:

• Construction and demolition workers.
• Plumbers.
• Roofers.
• Plasterers.
• Painters and decorators.
• Heating or ventilation engineers.
• Carpenters and joiners.
• Electricians.
• Gas fitters.

Category A would be sufficient for these roles if they need to carry out work in a building that contains undisturbed asbestos, but the activity does not require intentionally working with asbestos-containing materials.

Note that this is not a comprehensive list of job roles. Any work that takes place in areas that may or definitely contain asbestos – especially activities that could affect the fabric of the building – but does not involve directly working with the asbestos, will fall under this category.

Need Asbestos Awareness Training?

High Speed Training provides an online Asbestos Awareness Training (Category A) training course that is CPD accredited and approved by the The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) and Independent Asbestos Training Providers (IATP) approved. You can find out more about it by visiting our website.

Non-Licensed Asbestos Training (Category B)

Non-licensed and notifiable non-licensed work (NNLW) involves directly working with or disturbing asbestos-containing materials in some capacity, which means workers need a higher level of information, instruction, and training than what is given in Category A.

Category B training prepares those who carry out non-licensed and notifiable non-licensed work to do so safely if they must work with or disturb asbestos.

It will usually cover control measures for minimising risks, safe work methods, understanding risk assessments, personal protective equipment, waste handling, and emergency procedures. It should also cover circumstances when non-licensed work becomes notifiable.

Examples of job roles that may need Category B asbestos training are similar to those that may need Category A, but with the added criteria that their work directly involves asbestos-containing materials or will disturb asbestos. For instance, if an electrician needs to temporarily move asbestos-containing materials in order to install cabling, they will need to receive Category B training.

More specific examples of work activities that may fall into this category include:

• Drilling holes into asbestos-containing materials (such as for sampling or installing shelving).
• Removing floor tiles that contain asbestos.
• Removing and reattaching loosely fixed asbestos insulating board panels.
• Cleaning or repairing asbestos cement sheet roofing.
• Maintenance work on asbestos-containing conveyor belts, bonded rubber, or electric cables.
• Short-duration work to repair minor damage in asbestos insulin boards.

More complex activities that are not considered licensable but are notifiable would also require Category B training, though the training will need to cover the risks involved in the notifiable work.

Whether or not a work activity is notifiable depends on the level of risk and what it involves, so it will be up to the employer to identify this by carrying out a risk assessment. For instance, if the work requires removing asbestos-containing materials that are in poor condition or have a high friability, it is usually considered notifiable.

Licensed Asbestos Work (Category C)

Any high-risk activities that involve working with, disturbing, repairing, and removing asbestos and asbestos-containing materials (as well as supervising these activities) must be carried out by licensed contractors.

Licensed contractors must receive an appropriate level of training, such as Category C as well as practical training, before they can carry out any licensed work.

It’s important to note that, as the HSE states, training must be followed up by on-the-job consolidation of the knowledge and skills acquired. It’s crucial for them to be able to demonstrate they can carry activities out safely, such as physically handling asbestos.

The HSE states that licensable work with asbestos includes activities where:

• Worker exposure to asbestos is not sporadic and of low intensity.
• The risk assessment cannot clearly demonstrate that the control limit will not be exceeded.
• The work is on asbestos coating, asbestos insulation, or asbestos insulating board, where the risk assessment demonstrates that the work is not short duration work. An example of short duration is when the work involving these materials will take no more than two hours in any seven-day period, and no one person works for more than one hour in that two-hour period.

They also state that more specific examples of work activities include:

• Removing sprayed coatings (limpet asbestos).
• Any work involving loose fill insulation.
• Work on asbestos millboard.
• Removal or other work which may disturb pipe lagging.
• Cleaning up significant quantities of loose or fine debris that contains ACM dust, where the work is not sporadic and of low intensity, the control limit will be exceeded, or it is not short duration work.
• Working on asbestos insulating boards, where the risk assessment indicates that it will not be of short duration.

Category C training will cover a wide range of detailed topics, which are necessary for preparing licensed contractors to carry out the high-risk work involved in their role.

For example, it usually contains fundamental guidance on asbestos risks to health, where it’s commonly found, and legislation, as well as higher level information on techniques for safe removal of asbestos, transport procedures and waste management, cleaning and decontamination, wearing personal protective equipment, site inspections, emergency procedures and more. It will also typically need to be supplemented by practical training, as mentioned earlier.

It’s crucial for staff to receive the right level of asbestos training, so they understand how to work safely. Each of the three main categories offer different levels of information, instruction, and training, so it’s up to the employer to assess the work their employees will be carrying out and provide adequate training accordingly. This article has hopefully helped you to identify which type of asbestos training is right for the staff in your business.

What to Read Next:

• Online Asbestos Awareness (Category A) Training Course
• How to Conduct an Asbestos Risk Assessment
• What are the Symptoms of Asbestos Exposure?
• Can You Remove Asbestos Yourself?
• Asbestos Quiz
• What is Asbestos Awareness Training & Who Needs it?

The post What Are The Three Types of Asbestos Training? appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.

If your home was built before 2000, there is a possibility that asbestos was used in the process. You may discover it in your home, your garage, or elsewhere, especially while carrying out DIY or renovations. As it is incredibly dangerous and life threatening if disturbed, you must know what to do if you come across it.

Can I Remove Asbestos Myself?

You must never handle or try to remove asbestos yourself. Asbestos becomes harmful once it has been disturbed, as this causes the fibres to be released, which then may be inhaled. If you encounter what you suspect to be asbestos, you must not touch it. Instead, you should keep it isolated and seek specialist advice. If it is asbestos, then only professionals who are specifically trained to manage it should handle and remove it.

If you were to try to remove asbestos yourself, you would put yourself and those around you at serious risk. Disturbed asbestos can cause those who are in the vicinity to breath in the particles and potentially develop diseases including mesothelioma, asbestosis, asbestos-related lung cancer and pleural thickening.

This tends to happen over a sustained period of time due to extended exposure. However, as asbestos is hard to identify (with fibres about 10 times smaller than the width of a human hair), it is highly likely that these particles will remain in your home if you do attempt to remove it yourself. This means that you and others could be breathing asbestos in over time and at risk of becoming seriously ill.

Does This Apply to All Types of Asbestos?

In short, yes, you must never try to remove any type of asbestos yourself. Every type of asbestos requires a trained professional to come and remove it from the premises.

Asbestos covers six different types of minerals that belong to two mineral families, serpentine and amphibole. All types are harmful to the health of humans if the asbestos is disturbed and the fibres are then dispersed into the air. You can find out more about each of the types of asbestos below:

• Chrysotile (white asbestos) is the most commonly used type and it often contains small amounts of tremolite, another type of asbestos. The fibres can be identified by their fine texture and are commonly used in the roofs, ceilings, walls and floors of homes and businesses.
• Amosite (brown asbestos) is a strong, heat-resistant type of asbestos that was often used in cement sheet, plumbing insulation and electrical insulation. Though all types of asbestos are toxic, amosite asbestos exposure has a comparatively higher cancer risk.
• Crocidolite (blue asbestos) also has very thin fibres and is brittle in nature. This makes it one of the most harmful forms of asbestos because its composition means that it easily breaks down, leading to an increased risk of asbestos exposure.
• Tremolite is often found as a contaminant in chrysotile asbestos. It may be in paints, sealants, asbestos-containing insulation products and talc products. It comes in several different colours, including white, green and grey.
• Actinolite fibres are lightweight and tend to be dark in colour. It can be found in many forms, including brittle and fibrous or dense and compact, and is often used in paints, sealants and drywall.
• Anthophyllite fibres are a grey-brown colour and are commonly found as a contaminant in composite flooring. It was regularly used in products containing vermiculite and talc, such as talcum powder.

Although these types have different qualities and functions, they are all hazardous to human health. If you come across what you suspect to be any of the types of asbestos, you must not touch it. Instead, every type will require professional removal to ensure all asbestos is removed and done so safely.

If you want more information about identifying asbestos or are undertaking work where there is a possibility that you may encounter asbestos, you may want to undertake a training course. You can find out more about our Asbestos Awareness (Category A) course here. Remember that if you have found (or suspect you may have found) asbestos, you must never try to remove it yourself and should instead contact a specialist for assistance.

Further Resources

• Answering Your Asbestos Awareness Questions
• What is Asbestos?
• What are the Symptoms of Asbestos Exposure?
• Asbestos Colours: What is the Most Dangerous Asbestos Colour?
• Asbestos Quiz
• What is Asbestos Awareness Training & Who Needs it?
• What to Do After Recent Exposure to Asbestos
• How to Conduct an Asbestos Risk Assessment

The post Can You Remove Asbestos Yourself? appeared first on The Hub | High Speed Training.