How should damaged or deteriorated asbestos-containing materials be handled?

The correct approach to handling damaged or deteriorated asbestos-containing materials is to remove, encapsulate, enclose, or repair them. This method prioritizes safety and ensures that any potential hazards associated with asbestos exposure are mitigated.

When asbestos-containing materials are damaged, they can release harmful asbestos fibers into the air, posing serious health risks to workers and the public. Therefore, it is crucial to take immediate action to manage these materials appropriately. Removal involves professionally eliminating the material, while encapsulation and enclosure entail sealing or enclosing the damaged material to prevent fiber release. Repair may be applicable for minor damage, but it still aims to ensure that the asbestos remains contained and does not pose a risk.

Other approaches, such as storing damaged materials until an inspection, may inadvertently increase the risk of exposure, especially if the materials deteriorate further during that time. Similarly, leaving materials in place if they are not creating an immediate hazard is not advisable, as conditions can change, and hidden damage may pose unforeseen risks. Allowing untrained staff to remove asbestos is dangerous, as appropriate training and equipment are required to safely handle and dispose of such hazardous materials.