Emergency Procedures (Suspected ACM)

An ACM is an asbestos-containing material — suspected ACMs are encountered during refurbishment, demolition, and maintenance work.
If you suspect you have disturbed asbestos, the most important action is to stop work immediately and leave the area.
Do not attempt to clean up suspected asbestos dust or debris — disturbance releases more fibres into the air.
Prevent other people from entering the affected area by closing doors and placing warning notices at access points.
Report the suspected find to your supervisor immediately so the emergency procedure can be activated.
Do not remove contaminated clothing in the affected area — fibres on clothing can spread contamination further.
The area must remain sealed until a qualified asbestos analyst has taken samples and confirmed the material type.
If the material is confirmed as asbestos, a licensed asbestos removal contractor will be required for certain types.
Anyone who may have been exposed should have their name recorded and be informed of the exposure for future reference.
The incident must be reported under RIDDOR if a worker has been exposed to asbestos above the control limit.

Stop the spread	Every second of continued disturbance releases more deadly fibres — stopping immediately and leaving limits the exposure.
Protect others	Sealing the area and warning people prevents secondary exposure to colleagues who do not know asbestos has been disturbed.
Record exposure	If you were exposed, the record ensures you receive appropriate health surveillance for the rest of your working life.

Do

Don't

DON'T continue working if you suspect asbestos — stop immediately.
DON'T stay in the area or re-enter after leaving — keep everyone out.
DON'T allow other workers into the affected area without warning them.
DON'T delay reporting — your supervisor must activate the emergency procedure now.
DON'T sweep, vacuum, or wipe up suspected asbestos dust or debris.
DON'T fail to record who was present — exposure records are critical for health.
DON'T remove clothing in the contaminated area — fibres spread on fabric.
DON'T assume the material is safe — only laboratory analysis can confirm.
DON'T touch your face or eat before washing exposed skin thoroughly.
DON'T panic — controlled, calm action limits exposure and protects everyone.

See also: Asbestos Awareness | Asbestos Types and Where Found

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