What To Wear When Removing Asbestos In Hampshire

Asbestos is a highly dangerous and carcinogenic mineral that was widely used in construction and manufacturing before its dangers were discovered. Today, asbestos removal is necessary to protect people from exposure to this harmful substance, and the process must be conducted with extreme caution and care. As a leading asbestos removal company in Hampshire, Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire is committed to providing safe and professional asbestos removal services to our clients. In this landing page, we will discuss what you should wear when removing asbestos in Hampshire to protect yourself and your colleagues from exposure.

Introduction to Asbestos

Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that have been used in various industrial applications due to their strength, flexibility, and resistance to heat and chemical damage. However, it was also discovered that asbestos exposure can lead to serious respiratory illnesses, such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

Asbestos fibers are microscopic and can easily be inhaled or ingested, and once they enter the body, they can cause irreversible damage to the lungs and other organs. As a result, the removal of asbestos must be conducted by licensed professionals who are trained to handle this hazardous material.

Asbestos Removal Equipment and Protective Clothing

When removing asbestos in Hampshire, it is essential to wear the appropriate protective equipment and clothing to prevent exposure to asbestos fibers. This is because asbestos fibers can stick to clothing, hair, and skin, and may linger in the air for several hours after removal work has been completed.

Coveralls

One of the most important pieces of equipment for asbestos removal is coveralls. Coveralls are specially designed and manufactured to provide full body protection and to prevent asbestos fibers from coming into contact with your skin and clothes.

When selecting coveralls for asbestos removal in Hampshire, it is important to choose Cat 3 Type 5/6 disposable coveralls. These coveralls are made from a low-linting, anti-static material that doesn't generate dust and can be disposed of safely after use.

Masks and Respirators

Masks and respirators are essential personal protective equipment (PPE) for asbestos removal. They are designed to filter out asbestos fibers and other harmful particulates from the air. There are several types of masks and respirators available, including half-face masks, full-face masks, and powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs).

A full-face respirator is the most effective type of PPE for asbestos removal, as it provides maximum coverage for both the mouth and nose and the eyes. It also allows for the use of a HEPA filter that can capture 99.97% of airborne particles.

Gloves and Boots

The use of gloves and boots is also essential when removing asbestos. Gloves are necessary to protect your hands from coming into contact with asbestos fibers when handling contaminated material. It is essential to choose gloves that are made from a durable material and are resistant to tears and punctures.

Boots are important to protect your feet and provide a secure grip when working in slippery and hazardous areas. It is recommended that you wear steel-toed boots to provide extra protection against falling objects.

Eye and Face Protection

Eye and face protection are also critical when removing asbestos. The eyes and face are particularly sensitive to asbestos fibers, and exposure to these fibers can cause serious damage to the eyes and eyesight.

It is recommended that you wear a full-face respirator, which covers your eyes and face, and that you also wear safety goggles or glasses that are designed to seal around your eyes and prevent the entry of airborne particles.

Disposal of Asbestos Waste

The disposal of asbestos waste is another critical aspect of asbestos removal in Hampshire. Asbestos waste must be handled carefully and disposed of in accordance with the regulations set forth by local councils in the UK.

Asbestos waste should be placed in a labeled container, which must be sealed and transported to an authorized disposal site. The use of protective clothing and equipment is also essential when handling asbestos waste.

Fitted and Tested Respirators

It is important to note that respiratory protective equipment (RPE) must be manufactured to meet the New Zealand (NZS) standard for RPE, and that it must be fitted and tested before use by a trained professional. The fit and seal of the respirator can significantly affect its effectiveness, and poorly fitted respirators may not provide adequate protection against asbestos fibers.

Conclusion

Asbestos removal in Hampshire is a hazardous and potentially deadly process that requires the use of specialized equipment and protective clothing. At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we take the safety and wellbeing of our clients and colleagues seriously, and we are committed to providing safe and reliable asbestos removal services.

If you need asbestos removal services in Hampshire, please contact us at 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected]. We have a wide range of affordable products and equipment to help you remove asbestos safely and effectively, and we are always ready to provide expert advice and guidance.