Dangers of Asbestos in the Workplace

Dangers of Asbestos in the Workplace

The dangers of asbestos in the workplace rise when workers disturb old building parts. This can release tiny fibres into the air. When people breathe them in, the fibres may harm their lungs.

Many older buildings still have asbestos. In the past, builders used it in walls, floors, ceilings, and pipes. However, a building’s age alone does not mean the air is unsafe.

Asbestos is most likely to pose a risk when workers cut, drill, or break materials that contain it. For this reason, it is wise to check suspect materials before work begins.

Where Can Workers Find Asbestos?

Older offices, shops, and factories may contain asbestos. For example, you may find it in pipe covers, old floor tiles, or ceiling panels.

However, you cannot tell if a product contains asbestos just by looking at it. A lab test can help confirm what is in the material.

Six Types of Asbestos

Asbestos is a group of six natural minerals. Although they differ, all six types can harm people who breathe in their fibres.

• Chrysotile: Also called white asbestos. It was common in older building products.
• Amosite: Also called brown asbestos. Builders used it in some ceiling boards and insulation.
• Crocidolite: Also called blue asbestos. It was used in some pipe and cement products.
• Anthophyllite: A less common type found in some mineral products.
• Tremolite: May occur in certain minerals and products made from them.
• Actinolite: Another less common type that may occur in some older products.

Do not rely on colour to identify asbestos. Instead, ask a trained worker about safe testing.

Asbestos Health Risks at Work

Breathing asbestos fibres can cause serious health problems. However, many people do not notice any signs right away. Illness may take years to develop.

Long-term workplace asbestos exposure can raise the risk of several diseases.

Diseases Linked to Asbestos

• Asbestosis: This disease causes scars in the lungs. As a result, breathing may become hard.
• Lung cancer: Asbestos can raise the risk of lung cancer. Smoking adds to this risk.
• Mesothelioma: This rare cancer often affects the lining around the lungs.
• Other lung problems: Asbestos may also harm the lining of the lungs.

The risk depends on how much asbestos enters the air and how long a person breathes it in. Therefore, workers need safe work methods even for short jobs.

Signs That Need a Medical Check

Signs of asbestos-related illness may take many years to appear. Also, these signs can have other causes.

• Shortness of breath
• A cough that does not go away
• Chest pain or tightness
• Feeling tired more than usual
• Breathing that gets worse over time

If you have these signs, speak with a doctor. Also, tell them if you have worked near asbestos. Only a medical expert can check for asbestos-related disease.

Asbestos Hazards at Work: Who Is at Risk?

Some jobs have a greater risk of asbestos exposure. For example, crews that repair or tear down older buildings may disturb hidden materials.

Asbestos hazards at work may affect plumbers, electricians, builders, and repair crews. In addition, workers nearby may face risks if dust spreads into their work area.

Common High-Risk Tasks

• Removing old floor or ceiling tiles
• Cutting into walls or ceilings
• Repairing old pipe insulation
• Taking down older building parts
• Cleaning damaged insulation or debris
• Working near unsafe asbestos removal

These tasks do not always involve asbestos. However, crews should check suspect materials before they start.

How to Stay Safe During Building Repairs

Test Old Materials Before Work Starts

Testing can help identify asbestos before workers disturb it. First, a trained worker checks the suspect area. If needed, they collect samples and send them to a lab.

Once the results arrive, the team can plan the job. This helps workers choose the right safety steps.

Ontario has rules for asbestos work. You can read them in Ontario Regulation 278/05.

Use Trained Workers for Safe Removal

Not all asbestos needs removal. For example, some intact materials may remain in place if no one will disturb them.

However, damaged materials may need special care. Trained workers use methods that suit the job. They may seal off rooms, wear safety gear, and use tools that help control dust.

They also pack waste safely and arrange proper disposal.

What to Do If You Find Suspect Asbestos

If you find damaged materials that may contain asbestos, stop work in that area. Next, keep others away and report the issue to the site manager or safety lead.

Do not sweep the dust or use a household vacuum. Also, do not break or move the material. These steps may spread harmful fibres.

Instead, ask a trained expert to check the area before work starts again.

Knowing the dangers of asbestos in the workplace can help protect workers and prevent unsafe cleanup. With the right testing and work plan, you can reduce exposure risks.

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Need Help With Asbestos in Your Workplace?

GTA Restoration offers asbestos inspection, testing, safe removal, and cleanup services for homes and businesses.

Do not disturb suspect asbestos materials. Get expert advice before starting work.

Call Us: 416-800-0000

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