WEEKLY TOOL BOX SAFETY MEETINGS
ASBESTOS
What: Asbestos is a flexible, noncombustible, inorganic, microscopic fiber, which has been used for many years in the construction industry as an insulating material. Asbestos comes in several forms, the most common of which are chrysotile and amosite. Chrysotile, also known as white asbestos, is used in insulation, fireproofing, and soundproofing. Amosite, which is brown in color, is found in brake shoes and clutches.
When: You should take precautions anytime you are handling asbestos or working in an area where asbestos fibers may be present. When in doubt, ask your supervisor to check it out.
Why: Airborne asbestos fibers constitute a health hazard. Asbestos has been found to cause lung cancer, as well as chronic lung diseases, including asbestosis, which is chronic inflammation of the lungs.
Where: Caution should be exercised in all types of construction, repair, maintenance, etc. because asbestos is still used today, though it is not as common as it was in the past. Asbestos is frequently found in many older structures. You should be especially cautious when doing renovation, demolition, or salvage work in or on these buildings.
How: Employers are required to protect their workers and ensure that no one is exposed to an airborne concentration of asbestos in excess of 0.1 fibers/cubic centimeter (f/cc) as an eight hour time-weighted average. All asbestos work performed within regulated areas must be supervised by a competent person. This person must be capable of identifying existing asbestos hazards and selecting the appropriate control strategy for asbestos exposure. You can reduce your exposure by following your employer’s safety requirements, and by adhering to posted signs and warnings. Additional information can be found in OSHA Standard 29 CFR1926.1101.
Date______________ Company______________________________ JobName/No._________________________
Topics Pertaining To Your Project ________________________________________________________________
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Employee Safety Recommendations ___________________________________________________________
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Meeting Attended By: Please sign your name and date.
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These instructions do not supersede local, state, or federal regulations.
Supervisor’s Signature ______________________________________________________________________
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