Mesothelioma, Safety Guidelines, airborne hazards, asbestos, toxic dusts

MSA Safety Works has developed a six-page safety equipment usage guide to help returning Gulf Coast homeowners identify and select appropriate safety equipment, including respiratory protective devices, recommended for dealing with many clean-up hazards. The guide is available online at msasafetyworks.com

Broad in scope, the guide includes critical information on respirator selection for dealing with many of the airborne hazards generated as a result of the hurricanes, including potentially harmful dusts, such as common molds, or even toxic dusts, such as "black mold" (Stachybotrys chartarum or Stachybotrys atra), asbestos, or lead. The guide also covers respirator recommendations for protection from odors generated by organic matter decay (spoiled food), as well as from ammonia or chlorine vapors, which are common in clean-up situations. Other safety areas addressed include head, eye and face protection (for sawing downed trees or breaking glass windows), hearing protection, fall protection (for work on roofs) and first aid.

Respirators help protect responders and residents involved in flood clean- up from exposure to harmful dusts, mold and sewage odors generated from the hurricane and flood water. If not properly protected, these substances can result in serious health effects. Symptoms may include eye irritation, runny nose, sore throat, sneezing, nasal and sinus congestion, coughing, wheezing, breathing difficulty, rhinitis, asthmatic episodes, headaches and fatigue.

MSA, 4 Oct 2005

Mesothelioma Attorneys