What comes to mind when you think of summer? Is it the warmer weather, longer days, or endless fun with friends? When I think of summer, I picture luscious trees and beautiful flowers in full bloom. You’re probably thinking, what has this got to do with asbestos? And that is a good question. The answer is Bee Blowers!
Bees are common in the spring and summer; they pollinate our plant life. These little creatures are also a hobby for some enthusiasts, and they are known as Bee Keepers. Each beekeeper will be familiar with the Bee Smoker from novice to expert.
What is a Bee Smoker?
A bee smoker is a device that helps a beekeeper check their bee hive; they are commonly called “smokers”. It is designed to free the honeycomb from the bees within the hive safely for the keep and the bees.
Smoke is used because it interferes with the sense of smell that the bee has; it is used so that the hive does not react to the alarm pheromones released by the guard bees, giving the keep enough time to complete the needed work.
The device is a fire chamber filled with flammable materials like wood shaving or dry grass; it is designed to keep the materials smouldering while the keeper is using it. The smoke is released in puffs when the keeper squeezes the smoker’s handle.
Why Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous minerals that are found in rock. Known as a magic mineral, asbestos is a good insulator and fire retardant and was used in many different environments. Over 3000 products can contain asbestos, mainly in construction materials, insulation, and household appliances.
However, it was later discovered that asbestos fibres could cause serious health problems, including lung cancer and mesothelioma.
Many countries have banned using and importing asbestos, but China is not one of these countries. If your supplier has imported the smokers from China, there is a good chance they could contain asbestos.
Where could it be found?
The woven cloth-like material used to form the smokers is the most obvious place to find asbestos. Between the handle and the canister could have an asbestos insulation board.
There are three main types of asbestos – White asbestos (Chrysotile), which is a lower risk than Crocidolite (Blue) and Amosite (Brown).
Why is it dangerous?
Using a bee smoker containing asbestos is a health hazard, and beekeepers must be aware of the risks involved.
Although the risk is low, it is still a risk.
Asbestos exposure can lead to serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
Stop using the smoker?
It is highly recommended that anyone using the asbestos bee smoker stop using it.
Testing your smoker for asbestos would be best if your supplier imported it from China.
You can have the material tested for asbestos, but this typically costs more than buying a new one made from a non-asbestos material. If you buy a new set of smokers, you must dispose of the old ones as contaminated waste.
How to dispose of old asbestos smokers?
Asbestos waste is classified as hazardous and should be disposed of at the correct facility.
Your local council will have an asbestos waste skip where householders can take asbestos waste.
Note – You must double-wrap the waste in heavy-duty plastic sacks. Put the smokers in the first bag and seal it with a cloth tape. Put that bag inside another bag and seal it with a cloth tape.
Should you be worried?
Knowing the potential danger is always a plus when enjoying a rewarding hobby like beekeeping.
Suppose you know of any equipment made in countries that allow asbestos use. In that case, checking if they have asbestos as part of their materials is recommended.
The amount of asbestos fibre you may have been exposed to will be meagre. While not impossible, the chances of contracting an asbestos-related disease from such low exposure are unlikely.
Taking the dangers of asbestos exposure seriously, even in small amounts, is essential. While the risk of contracting an asbestos-related disease from low exposure is relatively low, it is still a risk that should not be ignored.
The long-term health consequences of asbestos exposure can be severe, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
Moving forward.
Suppose you have been using a bee smoker that you suspect may contain asbestos. In that case, it is advisable to stop using it immediately.
You can have the material tested for asbestos to ensure your peace of mind. Purchasing a new bee smoker made from non-asbestos materials may be more practical and safer.
Disposing of asbestos Smokers
When disposing of old asbestos bee smokers, it is essential to follow proper procedures to ensure the safe handling and containment of the hazardous material.
Asbestos waste is classified as hazardous and should be taken to the correct facility for disposal.
Contact your local council to inquire about the disposal options available in your area. Typically, there will be designated asbestos waste skips where householders can safely dispose of asbestos waste.
