Asbestos Removal & Masks

Dangers of Asbestos

• Tiny invisible asbestos fibers float through the air, making inhalation the key danger -- hence the need for masks. The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration -- commonly known as OSHA -- warns that asbestos inhalation can lead to the loss of lung function, breathing disability and even death. In the long term, asbestos causes diseases such as lung cancer and mesothelioma of the pleura. Smokers are especially susceptible to the dangers of asbestos.

Asbestos Removal Methods

• Whether asbestos is found in walls, tile floors or other construction elements, asbestos removal -- also known as asbestos abatement -- involves workers removing asbestos-containing material and placing it in well-labeled and secured disposal bags before transporting it to a toxic waste removal site. Though workers thoroughly dampen the area to lessen the problem, removing asbestos aggravates the airborne fibers, increasing the likelihood of inhalation. This increased airborne propagation makes masks an absolute necessity.

Safety Masks

• Despite the popularity of simple dust masks, respirator masks provide the only sufficient protection against inhaling asbestos. These gas-mask style devices cover the entire mouth and nose area with at least one filtered air intake, though most models feature two intakes. Dust masks have replaceable air filters, made from numerous layers of carbon, that remove organic vapors and tiny airborne fibers from the wearer's oxygen supply. Equipment suppliers offer half-mask and full-mask options, the latter of which includes a full facial visor.

Other Protection

• Masks serve as perhaps the most important protection against asbestos, but they are not the end of the line. If your dust mask doesn't feature attached eye protection, tight-fitting goggles are a must. As per OSHA standards, employers must furnish asbestos removal workers with protective clothing, including full-body coveralls, head coverings, gloves and foot covering. During asbestos removal procedures, employers must establish regulated areas and perform medical monitoring of workers in cases of frequent exposure.