DS Risk Warning 2: Asbestos found in ceramic gauzes

I wrote yesterday on this and have had feedback and questions already on it. I've consulted with our network expert Karen Williams and she further advises as follows:

'As it is going to be impossible to determine which ones may be asbestos containing the advice is to either send a representative sample of mats off to a lab for analysis (which we can arrange for you) or to remove all of them from use and double bag in a secure location until we get further details.

I want to make it clear that this does not constitute an ‘emergency’ as the risk of exposure to asbestos is extremely low for the following reasons quoted by the HSE “The material is predominantly non-asbestos. There is very limited physical contact with the material during use (eg: essentially placing items on top) and any contact is light and momentary. Consequently any free fibre release into the air will be minimal for normal use.”

I have attached the HSE press release and advice together with CLEAPSS guidance for your information'.

Hope that helps and if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us.

All the best.

Bill

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