It is potentially a huge issue and not just relating to the 787.
Some thoughts on fibre structures - There are techniques avaliable for working on fire/crash damaged bonded fibre componants. Positive pressure breathing masks and goon suits are a start, but massively reduce the ammount of time you can work for. Fixative sprays to hold down fibres are also usable though the duration is indeterminate. A pal recommends wrapping the damaged component in industrial cling film while it is transported.
I cant remember where I read some of this - will have to dig it out. There are a wide range of fibres not just "carbon". however in terms of acting like "asbestos" initial reaserch suggests that they don't have the same toxic properties as asbestos. That is not to say that you want a lung full of them due to all the other nasty qualtities.
more when I get time.
As fro the field repair of minor bumps - we shall have to wait for the Boeing Maint Manual and see what it says.