Asbestos is a material that has been used in construction and many other industries due to its heat and fire-resistant properties. But it comes with severe health implications. It is therefore important that awareness of asbestos be created especially for workers in some industries in Canada.
This blog offers a comprehensive guide to educate people on asbestos in Canada with regulations, precautions and safety measures.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is the term used in describing naturally occurring mineral which exists in various forms. Until the 1980s its dangers were unknown to the public; it was often used in insulation, roofing and flooring of buildings. If the fibers are stirred up then they become airborne and can be dangerous to the health when breathed in.
Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos exposure can lead to severe health issues, including:
- Asbestosis: A long-term illness that affects the lungs through the practice of inhaling silica fibers known as asbestos.
- Lung Cancer: It may lead to lung cancer particularly if one is a smoker; the longer one spends with it, the higher the risk he or she has of developing lung cancer.
- Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer primarily linked to asbestos exposure, affecting the lining of the lungs and abdomen.
Asbestos Awareness in Canada
Canada pays a lot of attention to asbestos awareness to ensure that workers and people in society are safe. Awareness programs are organized to inform about the dangers of asbestos and the safety precautions to be taken.
Canadian Asbestos Regulations
Canada has the following Canadian asbestos regulations that give a framework of how asbestos will be used, removed, or disposed of. These regulations include:
- Prohibition of Asbestos: Asbestos was banned by the federal government in 2018 and as you will find, most provinces have put in place their own measures.
- Identification and Assessment: More importantly, all buildings that are to be renovated or demolished need to be checked for the presence of asbestos.
- Training Requirements: Workers involved in asbestos removal or management must undergo proper training to understand safety protocols.
Asbestos Safety Guidelines
Adhering to asbestos safety guidelines is essential for minimizing risks. Here are some important guidelines to follow:
- Identify Asbestos: Before starting any work it is always important to test the building materials for asbestos. If one is still in doubt, they should seek the services of a professional to carry out the mentioned assessment.
- Use Protective Equipment: Workers should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as respirators and protective clothing when working in areas where asbestos may be present.
- Control Dust: Implement measures to control dust and prevent fibers from becoming airborne. This can include using wet methods during removal to minimize dust.
- Limit Access: Minimize exposure of anything containing asbestos to people who do not know how to handle it.
How to prevent Asbestos Exposure?
Preventing asbestos exposure is critical for workplace safety. Here are some key strategies:
- Regular Inspections: Each building, particularly those that are old, needs to be checked for the presence of Asbestos Containing Materials, at least once.
- Proper Maintenance: Asbestos should not be allowed to deplete structures; the content, therefore, should be well-maintained and kept intact.
- Educate Employees: Educate them, and their employees, of the risks associated with asbestos, and how these can be avoided in instances where the material is present.
The Asbestos Removal Process in Canada
If asbestos is found, proper removal is crucial. The asbestos removal process in Canada generally follows these steps:
- Assessment: This is done by an asbestos professional to identify the extent of prevalence of the substance in the site.
- Planning: A removal plan is created and then an action plan of safety measures and practices is taken.
- Notification: The relevant authorities and stakeholders are informed about the removal process.
- Removal: Professionals safely encapsulate or remove asbestos while following all the code of practices governing the removal process.
- Disposal: The waste generated from asbestos handling is properly dealt with in line with the laws in that area to ensure environmental harm is not done.
Workplace Asbestos Safety
Ensuring workplace asbestos safety is vital for protecting employees. Here are some best practices:
- Develop a Safety Plan: Employers should create a comprehensive safety plan that includes procedures for managing asbestos risks.
- Training Programs: Regular training sessions should be conducted to keep employees informed about asbestos hazards and safety measures.
- Emergency Procedures: Establish clear emergency procedures in case of accidental asbestos exposure.
Final Thoughts
At Valley WorkSafe, we provide essential asbestos awareness training, helping workers stay informed, follow Canadian safety regulations, and prevent exposure risks. With our local and online programs, we ensure safer workplaces, advance careers, and prioritize worker safety every step of the way.