What is classed as an accidental exposure?
An accidental exposure to asbestos is where an individual discovers or disturbs asbestos or an asbestos containing material in an unplanned manner. An example would be entering a room containing broken sheets of asbestos or drilling into a wall that contains asbestos.
What should I do straight away?
No amount of asbestos exposure is considered safe, and people should always take precaution to avoid inhaling toxic dust.
- Stop work in the area immediately.
- Wipe yourself down with damp rags to prevent the fibres becoming airborne.
- Evacuate and keep others out of the area.
- Get specialist help.
How Bad is a One-Time Exposure?
It’s wise to be alert to the dangers of asbestos exposure, and it is understandable to worry if you discover you have been exposed to asbestos. However, a one off short-term exposure is unlikely to cause disease. Most people who get health problems due to asbestos have had high levels of exposure over a long period of time, but asbestos exposure is cumulative, so multiple short-term exposures can add up. Usually asbestos-related diseases occur many years (15 – 30) after the exposure. The level of risk to the employee is dependant on the type of asbestos and its composition. Most asbestos is found in sheet form or bound to another product. Whilst contained in a matrix they are not a substantial risk, however, when in dust form or broken up the risks are increased.
What must your employer do?
Your employer must ensure that the area is isolated and an asbestos management plan is created. This may involve removing asbestos if it creates a risk, or monitoring if it doesn’t. They may have to report the release to the HSE under the RIDDOR regulations but this will depend on the specific exposure.
What must you do?
Firstly, Don’t panic. One-time asbestos exposure is generally not a serious risk except in extreme circumstances where toxic dust clouds the air. Asbestos-related diseases are usually caused by months or years of regular workplace exposure so you MUST not continue exposing yourself to asbestos without the correct training, PPE and risk assessments in place. Asbestos exposure will not have any immediate impact on your health, but if the exposure ever does affect you, it will have taken years for symptoms to arise. You should make sure your GP is aware of the event so it is in your medical history. This doesn’t need a face to face appointment as a phone call / email should suffice. Remember: It takes many years for an asbestos related illness to develop but if you suffer from any respiratory symptoms such as a persistent cough or difficulty breathing it would be wise to discuss it with your doctor.