November is National Asbestos Awareness Month, a time for communities and businesses to shine a light on the risks of asbestos exposure. The harm to health is well known, but identifying the material isn’t always as straightforward.
Our risk engineers have answered some of the most common questions to help you know what to look for and how to support your clients.
Wasn’t asbestos banned? Why is it still an issue?
Although asbestos is banned in Australia, it’s still a risk in older buildings and infrastructure. Many asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) were left sealed during the phase-out, which can become hazardous during renovations, demolitions, or natural disasters.
Why is it critical to know exposure when writing a new business?
Having asbestos in a building significantly increases the cost of clean-up should there be a large loss event.
Walls
Often found in “fibro” wall material that’s quite easy to spot, although harder to identify if painted or rendered.
Other common areas
Guttering
Downpipes
Lagging or insulation around water pipes
Backboards of electrical switchboards
Eaves or roofing
Ceiling materials
Internal partitions of offices and toilets
My client’s business has asbestos. Why do they need an asbestos management plan?
WHS/OHS laws in each state and territory require businesses in buildings with asbestos or a risk of exposure to have an asbestos management plan. This must be registered regardless if they’re tenants or owners.
We recommend engaging an Occupational Hygienist to help your client prepare and maintain a comprehensive asbestos management plan that includes:
Where to find the asbestos register
Signage and labeling of asbestos areas
Safe work procedures and control measures
Incident and emergency procedures
Asbestos consultation, training, and work log.
Want more tips on managing asbestos in the workplace?
Our team of risk engineers can help!
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