If you disturb or discover material you suspect may contain asbestos during your work, your immediate actions in the first few minutes determine whether the exposure remains minor or becomes a serious contamination incident. Stopping work, evacuating the area, preventing further disturbance, and reporting to your supervisor are the critical first steps. Continuing to work in a potentially contaminated area, or attempting to clean up suspect material yourself, dramatically increases the risk of harmful fibre exposure.
Key Hazards
Asbestos fibre release from disturbed suspect material contaminating the work area
Workers continuing to work in a contaminated area before confirmation of material type
Untrained persons attempting to clean up suspected asbestos material themselves
Fibre spread from foot traffic and air movement extending the contaminated zone
Control Measures
Stop all work in the immediate area as soon as you suspect asbestos has been disturbed.
Move yourself and other workers away from the area without disturbing the material further.
Prevent anyone from entering the area by closing doors, posting a warning, or blocking access.
Do not attempt to sweep, vacuum, or clean up the suspect material under any circumstances.
Report the situation to your supervisor and the site asbestos coordinator immediately.
Wash your hands and face and avoid touching your clothing until decontamination is arranged.
Record the names of everyone who was in the area at the time of the potential disturbance.
Wait for a competent person or licensed analyst to assess the material and take samples.
Do not resume work in the area until clearance has been confirmed by the asbestos analyst.
Remember
If you suspect you have disturbed asbestos, stop immediately and leave the area without delay.
Do not try to clean up suspected asbestos — you will make the contamination worse.
Prevent anyone else from entering the area until a competent person has assessed the situation.
Record the names of everyone who was present because they may need health surveillance.
Only a licensed analyst or competent person can confirm whether the material contains asbestos.
Work must not resume in the area until formal clearance has been issued by a qualified analyst.
Applicable Legislation: Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · HSG248 (The Analysts Guide)