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    Science of Safety Podcast: Episode 11.

    October 18, 2018
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    Science of Safety Podcast.

    Episode 11:
    Asbestos – What Is It and What Can It Do to You?

    Science of Safety Podcast.

    Episode 11:
    Asbestos – What Is It and What Can It Do to You?

    Science of Safety Podcast.

    Episode 11:
    Asbestos – What Is It and What Can It Do to You?

        

    In this episode host Mark Reggers discusses the subject matter of asbestos with guest Linda Apthorpe. Linda is a Consultant Occupational Hygienist and Lecturer at the University of Wollongong.

    Asbestos is an umbrella term for a group of fibrous silicate minerals found abundantly in nature. In the past, it was widely used in commercial applications and construction because its length and strength make it very heat resistant, great at insulating surfaces and easy to weave within other materials and products. Repeated and long-term exposure to asbestos has been directly linked to lung cancer, mesothelioma and other pulmonary issues. There is no safe level of exposure to asbestos fibres, it’s critical that you learn about the dangers of asbestos, where it can be found and how to manage it safely.

    NOTE: The specific legislative requirements vary slightly between the states, territories and countries in Australia & New Zealand, so be sure to check your specific legislative requirements to ensure you are meeting your obligations.

        

      

        

    Guest Bio:

    Linda Apthorpe (pictured left) is a Consultant Occupational Hygienist who provides consulting, specialised training and laboratory services to a wide variety of workplaces. She has over 20 years’ experience as an occupational hygienist, is a Fellow Member of AIOH and a Certified Occupational Hygienist.

    Linda is also a Lecturer at the University of Wollongong for the Work Health & Safety Program which includes post graduate studies in Occupational Hygiene

     

        

    In this episode, part 1 of 2, Mark & Linda discuss the following:

        

    • What is asbestos and is there different types?
    • Are all types just as hazardous as each other?
    • Why was asbestos used in so many products for such a long time?
    • When did society start using asbestos in products?
    • When is asbestos a risk to cause health effects to someone?
    • There is the 1 fibre theory, can 1 fibre of asbestos kill you?
    • What are the main health affects that asbestos can cause?
    • Can you go to the doctors to see if you have asbestos in your lungs?
    • Is there a ‘safe’ level of exposure to asbestos?

    Whether you work in the construction industry, handle insulation products, install roofs and tiles, manipulate clutch pads or are taking on ambitious home renovations, asbestos could pose a serious threat for your lungs and overall health. Tune in and learn what you need to know about asbestos to stay safe.

      

    Additional Resources:

        

    Contact a 3M Safety Specialist at scienceofsafetyanz@mmm.com for more information