26-11

Question 1

Asbestos is…

Answer 1

…the generic name for a variety of fibrous minerals found naturally in rock formations.

• popular material widely used in construction and many other industries
• when inhaled in significant quantities, asbestos fibres can cause asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer
• when working in buildings constructed prior to 1992, it should be assumed that asbestos may be present.

Question 2

During Emergency Operations - Where there is a potential for exposure to asbestos, firefighters should

Answer 2

• Wear positive pressure SCBA during fire fighting and overhaul
• Wet surfaces that contain asbestos to minimize fibre disruption
• Conduct on-site decontamination prior to removing SCBA

Question 3

Upon completion of emergency operations and/or origin and cause investigation, personnel shall conduct the on-site clean-up of personnel and equipment, while using appropriate respiratory protection, as follows:

Answer 3

• Brush off debris from PPE, tools and equipment
• Gently rinse off the equipment with low pressure water or clean with a damp cloth
• A vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter (as available on H204) can be used in lieu of rising off with water or damp cloth cleaning
• Cloths used for cleaning should be identified as possible asbestos containing material and left on scene in the care and control of the property owner.

Question 4

Upon returning to the fire station

Answer 4

• personnel should shower

- ensure that any soiled PPE is handled in accordance with SOG 26-04