A blaze engulfed a truck carrying asbestos sheets on the A66 on a chilly Wednesday morning. The asbestos debris was securely transported in a special container, according to the police authorities. Latest updates from the fire department report only charred wood scraps were smoldering inside, posing no serious threat.
Initial investigations suggest the fire was sparked by an engine malfunction caused an engine deflagration. The highway remained closed in the early hours for firefighting operations. Estimated losses are roughly €70,000, while the 52-year-old driver fortunately escaped unharmed.
Puffs of smoke from the scorched truck on A66 disrupted traffic, causing lengthier commutes for nearby motorists. Despite the traffic congestion, prompt action by the authorities kept the flames under control, preventing any further spread.
Asbestos safety protocols during fire incidents like this one include several critical steps to minimize harm and ensure safety. Identifying and containing ACMs, inspecting and collecting samples, air quality monitoring, utilizing appropriate PPE, and hiring licensed contractors for removal and disposal are among the crucial measures to be carried out. By adhering to these procedures, authorities can manage such incidents effectively, safeguarding both human and environmental safety.
[1] EPA. (2012). Asbestos: What You Need to Know. [Online]. Available: https://www.epa.gov/asbestos/asbestos-what-you-need-know [3] British Government. (2021). HSE: Asbestos Awareness. [Online]. Available: https://www.hse.gov.uk/toolbox/asbestos/asbestosawareness.htm
