Course Description:
Recorded at AIHce EXP 2023
Presenters will discuss how safety professionals can evaluate: 1) potential asbestos hazards in underground electrical vaults and manholes; and 2) potential inhalation hazards of H2S emissions in a large excavation. Asbestos containing materials are commonly found on older flameproofing wrap on high voltage cables and splices located in electrical utility vaults and manholes. The asbestos content can range from 5-75% chrysotile on the cables and 5-10% chrysotile on the splices. Work in these underground confined spaces can be required to disturb/remove the asbestos containing materials. Workers operating equipment in an excavation reported very strong odors of rotten eggs. Worker concerns almost caused a work stoppage. In proving the negative, an instrument capable of detecting H2S at the odor threshold was needed. The readings obtained and the reasons for the H2S emissions will be explained.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of the session, the participant will be able to:
• Identify potential asbestos containing materials in underground equipment and infrastructures.
• Anticipate the hazards that come with working in these environments.
• Utilize the tools and best practices when removing asbestos containing materials in these environments.
• Discuss issues created by unexpected substances having very low odor thresholds.
• Develop strategies for responding to concerns raised about odorous substances.
• Identify instruments capable of measuring H2S at levels below regulatory concern.
• Compare differences between environmental versus IH concerns on excavation sites.
• Implement a strategy for minimizing unexpected situations in excavations and confined spaces.
Contact Hours:
1
Presentation Date:
05/23/2023
Presenters:
Brian Heramb, CIH, FAIHA
Jacob Payne, CIH, CRSP
Neil McManus DSc., CIH, ROH, CSP
