RULES FOR REMOVING ASBESTOS

RULES FOR REMOVING ASBESTOS

Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are hazardous when disturbed, as they release fibers into the air that can cause serious health issues when inhaled. The removal of asbestos is essential during building renovations or demolitions. Per the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, residents cannot remove asbestos themselves; a professional, trained contractor must perform the task. The following rules must be adhered to:

General Rules

1. Leave Intact If Possible:
   • If ACMs are in good condition and unlikely to be disturbed, they can be left in place.
   • Regular monitoring and management are required to ensure they remain undisturbed.
2. Duty to Manage:
   • Those responsible for non-domestic premises must fulfill their duty to manage asbestos.
   • They must protect anyone using or working in the building from asbestos exposure.
3. Assessment Before Work:
   • Before maintenance work, identify and assess the type, condition, and location of ACMs.
   • Develop a plan to control and manage risks to prevent exposure.
4. Mandatory Training:
   • Anyone potentially exposed to asbestos, including maintenance workers and contractors, must receive appropriate training.
   • This includes those who might disturb ACMs, such as cable installers and removal workers.

Licensed Work

• Most asbestos removal work, including work with sprayed coatings, lagging, insulation, and asbestos insulation board (AIB), must be performed by a licensed contractor.
• Contractors must comply with regulations, including proper procedures for handling and removing ACMs.

Non-Licensed Work

• Some non-licensed work must be notified to the relevant enforcing authority.
• Written records of non-licensed work must be maintained, detailing the workers involved and their exposure levels.
• Air monitoring is not required for every job, but an exposure estimate should be based on previous tasks or published guidance.

Safety Precautions

• Isolation and Containment: Use polythene sheeting to isolate the area and prevent fiber release.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Workers must wear approved respirators, gloves, boots, protective goggles, and full-body suits.
• Wet Methods: Keep ACMs wet during work to minimize dust and fiber release.
• Clear Communication: Post warning signs to inform others of the asbestos work and associated risks.

By following these regulations and guidelines, the removal of asbestos can be carried out safely and effectively, minimising health risks to workers and building occupants.