You should wear a respirator approved for handling asbestos. Single-strap dust masks do not provide adequate protection. You should also wear a hat, gloves, safety goggles, good quality disposable coveralls with a hood, and rubber boots with disposable covers.
Wash your hands and face rigorously with soap and water before lunch breaks and after you’ve finished work for the day.
Asbestos is considered hazardous waste if it’s friable (meaning you can break it into powder easily). Avoid breaking it up to prevent yourself from inhaling dangerous dust. [3] X Research source
If family members or neighbors do not leave the area, make sure they stay indoors for as long as they can with the windows and doors shut. You should also take pets from the area and advise neighbors to do the same.
Do not use recycled or reused plastic bags.
As an extra precaution, these items should also be tightly sealed in plastic bags.
When placing asbestos sheets on top of each other, do not slide or skid the sheets. Gently place the sheets directly over each other. Sliding or skidding can damage the asbestos and release the fibers into the air.
Place all disposable clothing and cloths or rags used in cleaning in disposable bags and label the bags so it’s clear they contain asbestos.
If you’re buying a vacuum for the job, go to your local hardware or electrical store and ask for a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) vacuum cleaner.
Do not attempt to recycle asbestos or place it in domestic bins.
