Hessian carpet underlay

If you have exposed underlay or you’re planning to disturb carpet laid before 1980, and you’re concerned that asbestos may be present, WorkSafe recommend having it tested by an accredited laboratory, and that if it does contain asbestos is should be removed by a Class A Removalist. This can be expensive, but there is no other way to guarantee that you and your family and/or friends are not exposed to asbestos fibres. Unfortunately is is simply not an option for many of us, so the best thing is to avoid the material and try to seal any exposed areas as best you can. This writer has “sealed” the ragged edges of her old carpet and underlay with gaffer tape, however if your problem is more difficult to solve, contact us and we will try to provide the best advice.

To see the WorkSafe Alert, click the link below.

Asbestos Bags Used as Carpet Underlay

A (non member) contractor was recently investigated by WorkSafe because they had apparently provided “in house” training for their employees, however when the relevant workers knowledge of the work they were conducting was informally tested, it was found to be inadequate.

Ideally, workers engaged in asbestos removal should undergo accredited training provided by a Recognized Training Authority, so that it can be easily verified that they have the appropriate knowledge and skills for the job. Refresher training should be provided at least annually for Class A removalists and every 2 years for B Class removalists.

The Code specifies that the training should include

• the nature of the hazard

- how asbestos can affect a persons health

- the added dangers of smoking

• the risk from exposure to airborne asbestos fibres

- appropriate controls

- what methods and equipment will do the job properly

- how to choose, use and look after personal protective equipment

- decontamination of persons, equipment and work area

- waste disposal

- emergency procedures

• maintenance of controls

• what the law requires

The Code also requires that records of training be available at the workplace for each person engaged in asbestos removal work.

Asbestos removal is a serious business and it is critical that it is done in the safest possible way. Without adequate training mistakes can be made that can have tragic consequences, not just for the person involved, but for others who could be exposed as a result.

Loose asbestos fibres were pumped into the ceiling spaces of thousands of homes during the 60’s and 70’s. A couple of our members even worked for one of the companies that installed it and have a pretty good idea where it is still likely to be found. Other forms of asbestos containing ceiling insulation were also popular and any product installed before the 1980’s should be considered a risk.

This is the most dangerous form of asbestos and should not be disturbed under any circumstances, unless it is being removed by a suitably qualified asbestos removalist.

The fibres can clearly be seen in this close up.

We have done a little of our own research and are concerned that even some of the reputable companies are not providing enough information to their employees about how to identify asbestos and other harmful products.

Old synthetic mineral fibre (glasswool or rockwall) “batts” can also release dangerous fibres and should only be removed by trained personnel. We have been informed that some installers are being instructed to remove and dispose of any old insulation they encounter, while others are simply installing new insulation over the top of the old.

We suggest that the safest course of action is to assume that your installer is NOT adequately trained. Ask them not to enter your ceiling if they can see any old material or even excessive dust. Get a suitably qualified professional to take a sample and identify the material before you allow any work to occur in your ceiling, or the dust created may be deadly to you and the people who are doing the job.