Asbestos Risk Assessment
Asbestos disposal is a type of high risk construction work that comes with its own OHS risk assessment form. Like most examples of risk assessment forms, there is no standardised safe work method statement template applicable for every condition. But there are many basic steps that serve as the starting block for any SWMS asbestos removal job.
Firstly the proper documentation must be prepared. This step obviously involves the completion of a SWMS by the person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU). The SWMS must be available onsite and kept by the PCBU until all high risk work is complete. A licensed asbestos removalist is responsible for the asbestos removal control plan, which should also be available for everyone on the worksite. Lastly, any person who undertakes work in this area, including asbestos testing, must have adequate training through the specified VET course for assessors, or through a tertiary education in OHS, science, building, construction or environmental health.
The next step is the asbestos register. Each state and territory has its own regulatory standards for the registration of asbestos removal or any asbestos related work. For asbestos removal Brisbane, for example, the WHSQ must be informed and PCBU’s must:
- Know how to identify asbestos or any asbestos-containing materials (ACM) on site including friable asbestos
- Keep and update a dated register of the location of any ACM, risk assessments, control measures and the details of the competent person who undertakes the assessment
- Review the asbestos register at least once every five years
Although each state has different regulatory authorities surrounding asbestos OHS issues in the workplace, they are all based on the same framework detailed by Safe Work Australia. SafeWorkPro has provided a free SWMS example for asbestos removal to help your worksite get quick, safe and compliant today.
