Safeguarding health

Tackling black mould and asbestos in social housing

Posted by Aimee Wagstaff on May 20, 2024

Recent incidents in social housing have brought to light concerning issues surrounding black mould and asbestos, posing significant health risks to residents. Neglecting these hazards can lead to serious consequences, including respiratory problems and allergic reactions.

To help reduce the risks when exposed to mould and/or asbestos you can follow these steps:

  • Using engineering controls including isolating the exposure source
  • Wearing the correct PPE like respirators with an HEPA rated filter
  • Wearing the correct clothing like disposable overalls when around asbestos
  • Disposing of asbestos exposed clothing correctly ensuring it is double wrapped in heavy duty plastic bags with secured tape and kept damp
  • Using only accepted asbestoses waste centres/disposal sites to dispose of clothing
  • Limiting exposure to both

Our framework can help.

LOT 1 of our Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Associated Services framework includes suppliers who can provide respirators and protective clothing, ensuring safety during inspections and remediation efforts.

To find out more about how this framework can benefit your organisation, visit: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) & Safety Workwear

 

Source/s: Black mold exposure: Symptoms, treatment, and prevention (medicalnewstoday.com)

Why is asbestos dangerous? (hse.gov.uk)