Clearing out gutters is a household chore that often goes overlooked until a downpour reveals a clogged drainage system. While cleaning gutters is a routine task, it becomes a different ballgame when dealing with roofs made of corrugated asbestos fibre cement. In this article, we’ll delve into the potential hazards of cleaning gutters on asbestos roofs and shed light on the importance of proper safety measures.
Understanding the Risk: Corrugated Asbestos Fibre Cement Roofs
Corrugated asbestos fibre cement roofs were once popular due to their durability and fire-resistant properties. However, over time and due to weathering, the upper surface of these roofs can deteriorate, releasing loose asbestos fibres. This “bonded” asbestos product becomes “friable,” meaning it can easily crumble into fine particles. When it comes to cleaning gutters on such roofs, the risk of exposure to asbestos fibres becomes a significant concern.
The Dangers of Exposure
Asbestos fibres, when inhaled, can cause serious health issues, including lung diseases and even cancer. Deposits of loose asbestos fibre debris within your gutters and drainage system can become airborne during cleaning, posing a direct health risk to you and your family. Inhalation of these fibres can lead to long-term health complications, making proper safety measures absolutely essential.
The Importance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Cleaning gutters on asbestos roofs demands more than just a ladder and gloves. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is crucial to ensure your safety. Here’s what you should consider:
- Respiratory Protection: A properly fitting respirator with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter is essential to prevent inhaling asbestos fibres.
- Protective Clothing: Wear disposable coveralls to prevent fibres from adhering to your clothing and skin.
- Eye Protection: Goggles or a face shield will safeguard your eyes from any airborne particles.
- Gloves: Heavy-duty gloves will prevent direct contact with any debris that may contain asbestos fibres.
Safe Gutter Cleaning Practices
If you suspect that your gutters might contain asbestos debris, it’s best to leave the task to professionals trained in asbestos removal. However, if you choose to tackle the job yourself, follow these precautions:
- Wet down the gutters and debris before cleaning to minimize the release of fibres.
- Use a gutter scoop and avoid using high-pressure water, which can create more airborne particles.
- Double-bag any debris and materials used during cleaning, and label them as asbestos waste.
- Thoroughly clean yourself and your tools after the job, and shower to ensure you’ve removed any potential fibres.
Cleaning gutters on asbestos roofs presents an often-overlooked yet potentially dangerous situation. The transformation of “bonded” asbestos to “friable” asbestos increases the risk of fibres becoming airborne during routine maintenance. Prioritising safety through the use of proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and following safe cleaning practices is essential to safeguard your health and the well-being of your family. When in doubt, consulting professionals experienced in handling asbestos-related tasks is always a wise decision.