This code is intended to be read by a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU). It provides practical guidance to PCBUs on how to manage health and safety risks associated with removing asbestos or asbestos-containing materials (ACM) from workplaces.

A PCBU may be an asbestos removalist who may carry out asbestos removal work that does not require a licence; Class A asbestos removal work; or Class B asbestos removal work. This could include both asbestos removal companies and those persons who may carry out small asbestos removal jobs and may not have an asbestos licence, for example tradespersons.

It is recommended that other duty holders—for example, a PCBU who commissions asbestos removal work at a workplace (PCBU who commissions removal work)—should read this code to ensure they are aware of mandatory requirements.

This code may also be used by workers and their health and safety representatives and other people affected by asbestos removal work, for example neighbours.

It is important to read the How to manage and control asbestos in the workplace Code of Practice, as it provides specific guidance on identifying asbestos or ACM in the workplace, determining whether removal is the best control option and implementing other control measures if removing asbestos is not the most appropriate action to take.

This code may be a useful reference for other persons interested in the duties under the
WHS Act and WHS Regulation.

This code applies to all workplaces covered by the WHS Act where asbestos removal is carried out. Some chapters of this code will apply to asbestos that is present in residential premises where the premises become a workplace.