What should be done to the work area before setting up plastic barriers?

Before setting up plastic barriers in a work area where asbestos may be present, it is essential to wet clean the area. Wet cleaning involves using water or a damp solution to minimize the risk of asbestos fibers becoming airborne. This method helps suppress dust and ensures that any asbestos remnants are easier to contain and manage.

When an area is wet cleaned, the moisture captures particles that might otherwise escape into the air, making it safer to establish barriers that will contain the space as workers carry out their tasks. This proactive approach significantly reduces the likelihood of exposure to hazardous materials, protecting both the workers and the surrounding environment.

Other cleaning methods, such as dry cleaning or vacuuming, may not be effective at suppressing asbestos fibers. Dry cleaning could stir up dust and allow fibers to become airborne, while standard vacuuming might not adequately capture all harmful particles if the equipment is not specifically designed for hazardous materials. Inspections are crucial for ensuring safety, but they cannot replace the need for effective cleaning before barrier installation.