Work Hazards - Hidden Killers

Asbestos

If you work with asbestos the HSE provides the following guidance for wearing suitable respiratory protective equipment (RPE).

Use suitable RPE with an Assigned Protection Factor of 20 or more.

Suitable types of RPE:

• disposable respirator to standards EN149 (type FFP3) or EN1827 (type FMP3);
• half mask respirator (to standard EN140) with P3 filter; or
• semi-disposable respirator. This equipment should be suitable for most short duration non-licensed work. Workers should select a make and size that fits them.
• This equipment is not suitable for people with beards or stubble, or for long periods of continuous use; you need powered equipment for such situations.

More information on the selection of suitable RPE is given in HSG247, HSG53 or from suppliers. See �Further information� and �More help�.

Planning and preparation

• Plan for and practice emergency procedures.
• Workers need to be fit tested to make sure that the RPE fits them properly.
• Arrange respirator fit testing and training before the work starts, ask the supplier for help or contact BOHS (www.bohs.org or 01332 298101). Also see �More help�.

Using RPE

• Workers must be medically fit to wear RPE - seek medical advice if you are not sure.
• All types of RPE restrict what the wearer can do. It is uncomfortable to wear for long periods.
• The RPE has to be worn all the time and until the worker is away from the contaminated air.
• Fit and wear the respirator in accordance with the manufacturers instructions.
• Place the straps firmly around the top and back of the head. The respirator should be tight against the face.
• When using disposable RPE, pinch the top of the respirator over the nose.
• Carry out a fit check in accordance with the manufacturers instructions
• If the worker wears spectacles, they should put them on now. They must not create a gap between the mask and face.
• Put the overall hood over the straps.
• At the end of the shift, take off RPE last and, if it is disposable, put it in the asbestos waste. If it is any other type decontaminate, clean and store it properly for the next use.
• With half-mask type change filters regularly - your supplier may be able to advise you how often. Dispose of used filters as asbestos waste.

Caution: Never leave the respirator lying around where it can collect dust. Never dangle the respirator round your neck.

Maintenance of non disposable equipment :

• Keep RPE clean and in good working order - follow the manufacturers� instructions.
• Inspect and check RPE for damage every time. Carry out thorough checks monthly (or every three months if used infrequently). Inspect all parts including valves and seals. Replace the respirator as appropriate.
• Clean RPE after use and store in a safe place away from contamination.

Caution: Make sure the correct filter is fitted.

Respirator (RPE) Training

RPE users should know:

• how to check their equipment is working properly before they put it on;
• how to check that it fits; -how to identify and replace worn or defective parts; and
• that they know about the limitations of the RPE they are using.

Users must throw away disposable RPE/PPE as asbestos waste after one use.

Tell workers to stop work and leave the area if they think their RPE is not working properly.

For some tasks non disposable RPE is needed

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