Asbestos & Industrial Property
Asbestos was widely used in Australian construction between 1940 and 1990. It was incorporated into over 3,000 different products.
While its use was phased out in the 1980's and completely banned in new materials by 2003, many buildings constructed or renovated before 1990 still contain asbestos.
Non-residential and industrial/commercial properties built up to 2003, may have asbestos materials present.
Need an Asbestos Register?
If your industrial or commercial property/workplace was built before 2004, or if there is a likelihood of asbestos being present, you are required to maintain an Asbestos Register.
This register must include:
* Where the asbestos is, or assumed to be
* The type of asbestos it is
* The condition the asbestos is in
The Asbestos Register must be:
* Accessible to anyone likely to be exposed to asbestos
* Kept up to date
* Passed on to new workplace management
How to Make an Asbestos Management Plan?
If your industrial or commercial property/workplace contains asbestos, you must create and maintain an Asbestos Management Plan.
This plan should include:
* The location of the Asbestos Register
* Signage and labelling for asbestos-containing areas
* Safe work procedures and control measures
* Emergency and incident response procedures
* An asbestos consultation, work & training log
The plan must be reviewed at least every five years or when:
* Requested by a health and safety representative
* Asbestos is removed, disturbed, sealed, or enclosed
The plan must also be available to anyone working in the building.
Asbestos Awareness Training?
Anyone whose work involves a reasonable likelihood of disturbing or coming into contact with asbestos must undergo asbestos awareness training.
This training helps staff be aware of:
* The dangers of asbestos exposure
* Safety precautions to minimise risks
* How to identify asbestos-containing materials, naturally occurring asbestos, and loose-fill asbestos insulation
For more information on asbestos in NSW, visit the SafeWork NSW website.
References
SafeWork NSW Website