Removing asbestos in workplaces
WorkSafe Victoria
Exposure to airborne asbestos fibres through inhalation can cause a range of debilitating medical conditions affecting the respiratory system, including mesothelioma, asbestosis and lung cancer. These asbestos-related conditions are life threatening and severely affect a person’s quality of life. For further information about the risks to health from airborne asbestos fibres go to worksafe.vic.gov.au.
The purpose of this Code is to provide practical guidance to duty holders on how to comply with their duties under the OHS Act and 'Part 4.4 – Asbestos’ of the OHS Regulations in relation to asbestos removal work.
Contents:
Preface
Introduction
General Requirements Of Part 4.4 Of The Occupational Health And Safety Regulations
Prohibitions
Asbestos Removal Work
General Requirements For All Asbestos Removal Work
Additional Requirements For Asbestos Removal Licence Holders
Additional Requirements For Class A Asbestos Removal Work
Paraoccupational Air Monitoring And Clearance Inspections
Independent Persons6
Asbestos-Contaminated Soil
Appendix A: The Compliance Framework
Appendix B: Definitions
Appendix C: Examples Of Asbestos-Containing Materials
Appendix D: Examples Of Asbestos Warning Signs
Appendix E: Guide To The Selection Of Respiratory Protective Equipment
Appendix F: Pro Forma Control Plans
Appendix G: Example Of An Asbestos Removal Log And Check Sheet
Appendix H: Exposure Standard And Atmospheric Monitoring
Appendix I: Class A Asbestos Removal Work Involving The Removal Of Asbestos-Contaminated Dust
Appendix J: Removal Of Non-Friable Asbestos Cement Products
Appendix K: Removal Of Non-Friable Asbestos-Containing Floor Tiles
Appendix L: Removal Of Asbestos-Containing Gaskets And Rope Seals
Appendix M: Removal Of Bituminous (Malthoid) Asbestos-Containing Material
Appendix N: Removal Of A Small Section Of Pipe Lagging Using A Glove Bag
Appendix O: Removal Of Friable Asbestos-Containing Fire Retardant Material From A Large Ceiling Space
Appendix P: How To Use Rags To Clean Asbestos Contamination From Smooth Surfaces And Equipment
Appendix Q: Information Required To Be Included In An Asbestos Control Plan
Appendix R: Documents Associated With This Compliance Code
