Safe Work Procedure for Handling Class B Asbestos Material in the Event of a Fire
Safe Work Procedure for Handling Class B Asbestos Material in the Event of a Fire
Objective: To outline the procedures for safely handling Class B asbestos material that has been disturbed by a fire, ensuring compliance with the New Zealand Asbestos Regulations 2016.
Scope: This procedure applies to all personnel involved in the removal of Class B asbestos material that has been compromised by fire.
Hazards and Risks:
- Asbestos Fiber Release:
- Hazard: Asbestos fibers may be released into the air due to fire damage.
- Risk: Inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause serious respiratory diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
- Structural Instability:
- Hazard: Fire may weaken structural elements, posing a collapse risk.
- Risk: Physical injury or entrapment of workers.
- Heat and Smoke Residue:
- Hazard: Residual heat and smoke can cause burns or respiratory issues.
- Risk: Physical injury and respiratory problems.
Controls:
- Assessment and Planning:
- Conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify and evaluate all hazards.
- Develop an asbestos removal control plan (ARCP) in accordance with Regulation 14 of the New Zealand Asbestos Regulations 2016.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Provide appropriate PPE for all workers, including:
- Disposable coveralls (Type 5, Category 3).
- P3 or P2 disposable respirators.
- Gloves and safety goggles.
- Ensure PPE is worn at all times during the removal process.
- Provide appropriate PPE for all workers, including:
- Isolation and Containment:
- Isolate the work area to prevent unauthorized access.
- Use warning signs and barriers to demarcate the asbestos removal zone.
- Implement containment measures such as plastic sheeting and negative air pressure units to control fiber release.
- Decontamination Procedures:
- Set up decontamination facilities for personnel and equipment.
- Ensure all personnel undergo thorough decontamination before leaving the work area.
- Air Monitoring:
- Conduct continuous air monitoring to ensure asbestos fiber concentrations remain below the permissible exposure limit (PEL) specified in Regulation 7.
- Use only licensed asbestos assessors for air monitoring activities.
- Safe Work Practices:
- Wet down the asbestos material with a fine mist of water mixed with a wetting agent to minimize fiber release.
- Use hand tools instead of power tools to reduce disturbance of asbestos fibers.
- Double-bag asbestos waste in heavy-duty polyethylene bags (200 µm thickness) and label them according to the New Zealand Asbestos Regulations 2016.
- Emergency Procedures:
- Develop and communicate an emergency response plan for dealing with unexpected incidents.
- Ensure all workers are trained in emergency procedures, including evacuation routes and first aid.
- Disposal:
- Transport asbestos waste to a licensed disposal facility in accordance with local regulations.
- Maintain waste tracking documentation as required by the New Zealand Asbestos Regulations 2016.
- Training and Competency:
- Ensure all workers involved in asbestos removal are trained and hold the necessary certification as per Regulation 20.
- Conduct regular refresher training sessions to keep workers updated on safe work practices.
Documentation and Reporting:
- Keep detailed records of the asbestos removal process, including risk assessments, air monitoring results, PPE usage, and waste disposal records.
- Report any incidents or breaches of safety protocols to the appropriate regulatory authority.
Compliance: This procedure complies with the New Zealand Asbestos Regulations 2016, ensuring the health and safety of workers and the public during the removal of Class B asbestos material affected by fire.
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