What should you do cont...?
If you think you have disturbed asbestos without any precautions you should:
- stop work immediately;
- minimise the spread of possible contamination by keeping others out, closing the area off and putting up warning signs;
- tell your boss; and
- if there is visible dust on clothing, put on a toxic dust face mask (FFP3 type (FFP - Filtering Face Piece)) and wipe the area down with damp rags.
You need your employer to arrange asbestos awareness training for you which should help you answer this question for yourself. Asbestos awareness training is a legal requirement if you work in buildings constructed or refurbished before 2000 (when asbestos was banned). You need this training so you know how to avoid the risks and what to do in an emergency.
The UK Asbestos Training Association, UKATA, and Independent Asbestos Training Providers, IATP, represent organisations which provide suitable training. Other training providers also exist.
If your employer refuses to arrange asbestos awareness training you will need to very seriously consider if you want to work for them. You may be risking your life.
