Recommendations for disposal of asbestos waste material
1986 Edition

According to the standard, asbestos waste should first be wetted to suppress dust generation before packaging. It must then be enclosed in leak-proof bags or containers that prevent fiber escape during handling. Bulk handling must employ methods that avoid dust emission, such as sealed vehicles or containers. These containers should be securely closed and stored separately in designated areas protected from damage or contamination. Additionally, asbestos waste should never be mixed with other types of refuse to maintain containment integrity.

The standard advises that tailings from mining and milling undergo specific safety procedures including stabilization and wetting before disposal to reduce dust generation. The disposal should occur in designated secure landfill sites equipped with impermeable liners to prevent leachate contamination. Tailings must be promptly covered with soil or inert materials to minimize airborne fibers, with restricted access maintained at disposal locations to prevent exposure. Regular environmental monitoring is recommended to ensure compliance and safety.

Workers handling asbestos waste should wear appropriate protective clothing designed to prevent contamination of skin and personal garments. Respiratory protection, such as approved respirators with HEPA filters, must be used to avoid inhalation of asbestos fibers. Handling techniques should prioritize wet methods and sealed containment to minimize dust release. Additionally, gloves and eye protection are advised. Asbestos waste must be securely sealed in leak-proof containers and stored separately to prevent cross-contamination.

Yes, transportation of asbestos waste must ensure that it is not mixed with other non-specialized waste and that dust release is prevented. Waste should be transported in sealed or covered containers or vehicles to avoid any fiber escape. Drivers must carry written instructions for managing spillage incidents, accessible for emergency responders. Whenever feasible, asbestos waste should be stored in a dedicated secure area prior to transport. The disposal site must be approved and suitable for asbestos waste reception.

The standard encourages recycling of asbestos-cement off-cuts and broken pieces wherever practical. When recycling is not feasible, these materials must be collected carefully to avoid dust generation and disposed of safely. Hard asbestos wastes should be stored in a manner that prevents abrasion or crushing before disposal. Recycling involves reprocessing the waste back into manufacturing inputs after appropriate treatment, thereby promoting resource efficiency and reducing environmental impact.