Asbestos is used as insulation in high temperature machinery, boilers, piping on ships, stationary machinery, and in piping of boiler plants. Any personnel who encounters asbestos during any occupational situation shall advise their supervisor. The supervisor and worker are to assess the potential for generating airborne fibers. If the potential exists, notify the Navy Region Southwest Safety Office for further guidance. Asbestos related emergencies and clean up procedures will be coordinated under the technical control of the Safety Office.
Asbestos is recognized as a major health hazard.
The intensity of the hazard is directly related to the amount of asbestos dust one is exposed to, as well as the individuals susceptibility to asbestos fibers such as size and variety, any past exposure history, and the presence of other pollutants. The relationship of cigarette smoking to lung cancer where asbestos is involved is rather dramatic. Asbestos is a progressively restrictive fibrosis of the lung and is recognized as a classic disabling or even fatal occupational disease. It is also suspected of causing cancer in the gastrointestinal tract. Mesothelioma is a rare malignant tumor of the lung membrane that lines the chest and abdominal cavity, and is occurring with increasing frequency in workers with exposure to asbestos.