I run a hotel and while undergoing refurbishment a contractor told me that he suspected that the walls of the hotel contained asbestos. If the asbestos was mixed into the cement covering the walls I cannot remove it without knocking down the entire structure. What do I need to do to ensure the asbestos is left undisturbed and my workers and guests remain safe?
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Answer by Shamaila Khan, Kingsville 3012 VIC
- When left intact and undisturbed asbestos-containing materials do not pose a health risk to people working or living in buildings. If asbestos-containing materials are detected at the workplace and of a type that can’t be removed a PCBU must:
- arrange for an inspection to be conducted by a licensed contractor to determine whether asbestos is located in other places on the premises;
- prepare an asbestos register which records the location, type and condition of the asbestos;
- place signs over where the asbestos is present to warn workers and contractors to avoid interfering with or disturbing the asbestos in those locations; and
- prepare an asbestos management plan which details:
- decisions about how the asbestos will be managed;
- safe work procedures and control measures when dealing with asbestos;
- procedures for dealing with emergencies or incidents involving asbestos; and
- consultation, responsibilities, information and training provided to workers in relation to the asbestos.