What should ideally be done to the electrical supply in/near the work area before abatement begins?

Locking out and tagging out (LOTO) the electrical supply in and around the work area is a crucial safety measure before beginning abatement work involving asbestos. This process ensures that all electrical sources that could pose a risk are properly disabled and cannot be accidentally turned on while workers are in the area. By implementing this procedure, you are preventing potential electrical hazards that could lead to serious injuries, especially in environments where there may be dust and debris that could come into contact with electrical systems.

The LOTO system involves a series of steps to identify, isolate, and secure energy sources. It protects workers from electric shock and helps maintain a safe workspace.

In contrast, simply leaving the electrical supply as it is would pose a significant risk by allowing live wires and equipment to remain operational. Disconnecting only non-essential power does not address all potential hazards, as there may still be active electrical sources that could cause harm. Informing personnel alone does not provide the necessary safeguards to prevent accidents; action must be taken to ensure equipment is safely powered down. Thus, the lockout/tagout procedure is the best practice for ensuring safety prior to any abatement work.