IS 12078:1987 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for recommendations for personal protection of workers engaged in handling asbestos. This standard provides recommendations for the personal protection of workers engaged in handling asbestos and products containing it. It specifies requirements for personal protective equipment (PPE), respiratory devices, working clothes, and decontamination procedures. The code also emphasizes the importance of regular health monitoring and training to mitigate the severe health risks associated with asbestos exposure.
Recommendations for personal protection of workers engaged in handling asbestos
| Parameter | IS Value | International | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airborne Exposure Limit (8-hr TWA) | Not specified in the standard; refers to national regulations (Factories Act). | 0.1 fibres/cm³ | OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1101 |
| Short-Term Exposure Limit (Excursion Limit) | Not specified. | 1.0 fibres/cm³ (over 30 minutes) | OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1101 |
| Air Monitoring | Recommended periodically; no frequency mandated. | Mandatory initial assessment and daily monitoring for many tasks. | OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1101 |
| Respiratory Protection | Recommends various types including positive pressure respirators based on situation. | Specific respirator type (e.g., P100, PAPR) mandated based on work class and exposure level. | OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1101 |
| Decontamination Facility | Recommends a three-compartment changing room. | Mandates detailed specifications for decontamination units, often including negative pressure and airlocks. | HSE ACOP L143 |
| Medical Surveillance Frequency | Recommends 'periodical' examination; interval not defined. | Annually for workers exposed above permissible limits. | OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1001 |
| Waste Disposal | Recommends impermeable bags, clearly labelled 'DANGER-ASBESTOS DUST'. | Requires double-bagging or sealed containers, specific labelling, and disposal at a licensed facility. | HSE ACOP L143 |