The Importance of Health and Safety Procedures in Asbestos Removal

Once widely used in construction because of its fire-resistant properties, the naturally occurring mineral fibre Asbestos is no longer a welcome feature in residential or commercial spaces because of the severe health problems it causes, including lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. Because of these dangerous aspects, removing or managing Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) requires a specialised and meticulous approach that prioritises health and safety (H&S) first and foremost.

At AR Plus, we understand the seriousness of asbestos exposure and the critical role H&S procedures play in asbestos removal projects. You won’t find a more committed team to providing a safe work environment for our team, the environment, and the greater community. This ensures that the property in question is remediated with minimal risk.

Our blog will uncover the importance of a comprehensive H&S plan for the asbestos removal process and how specialists like us approach these complex projects with the utmost care.

Why is a Comprehensive H&S Plan Essential?

Because asbestos fibres are microscopic and invisible to the naked eye, a comprehensive H&S plan is essential before any work is undertaken. If disturbed during renovation, demolition, or routine maintenance, these fibres can become airborne and easily inhaled. Devastating health issues can happen with even minimal exposure, especially for the young, aged, or immune-compromised. A thorough H&S plan lays the foundation to reduce these risks and protect everyone involved in the asbestos removal project.

A comprehensive H&S plan outlines the procedures and protocols for the entire asbestos removal project. This can include the following:

Pre-Removal Activities

A comprehensive site inspection is undertaken to identify the presence of asbestos or ACMs. An Asbestos Removal Control Plan (ARCP) is created that involves a detailed report of the extent of the removal process, team requirements, and the necessary control measures to be set in place before, during, and after the asbestos removal project.

Work Procedures

The ARCP outlines the step-by-step process for the removal and will highlight the containment procedure, air pressure systems, decontamination protocols, and the correct handling and disposal of asbestos. Special attention will be paid to the unique steps to be taken to protect and safely remove and manage asbestos.

Containment Strategy

We design a containment strategy that effectively isolates the work area, preventing the spread of asbestos fibers to other parts of the building.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Procedures will also ensure that the proper PPE, including boots, gloves, coveralls, and respirators, is used.

Emergency Procedures

Steps will also be outlined for managing the accidental release of asbestos fibres, necessary evacuation protocols, decontamination processes thereafter, and medical attention for affected staff.

Risk Assessment

This assessment considers factors like:

• The type and quantity of ACMs present
• The accessibility of ACMs
• The potential for disturbing ACMs during the removal process
• The presence of other hazardous materials
• The ventilation system in the work area

By thoroughly evaluating potential risks, we can proactively address them and prioritise the safety of everyone involved.

Monitoring and Recordkeeping

H&S plans to pay careful attention to the air monitoring procedures during the removal process, which is necessary for record-keeping for future reference.

Commitment to Safety

Asbestos removal is a necessary service that protects the health of the community. To provide another blanket of protection and our obligations to always maintain strict H&S protocols is further highlighted by the following:

Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016 Compliance

At AR Plus, we follow New Zealand’s safety rules for managing asbestos and comply with the Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016 and the Approved Code of Practice (Worksafe NZ). Adherence to these regulations means we identify asbestos materials, create a plan to manage the removal process, and keep everyone safe by minimising asbestos exposure.

Site Audits

We maintain further compliance by conducting regular audits. These audits are conducted internally by our dedicated staff and through external experts such as OHS Consulting and Telarc. These combined audits give us a well-rounded perspective on our commitment to asbestos removal regulations.

Licenses and Assurances

Dedicated to your safety with our team of fully trained asbestos removalists, AR Plus holds Class A and Class B asbestos removal licenses from WorkSafe, ensuring we are qualified to handle any asbestos situation. In addition, our Telarc registrations ISO 45001:2018 and AS/NZS 4801:2001 further establish the commitment to health and safety best practices.

Clearance Report

Every job comes with a 5-year guarantee and mandatory clearance certification from an I.A.N.Z.-registered assessor.

Site-Specific H&S Plans

We don’t think there should be a “one-size-fits-all” strategy for asbestos removal and are aware that each project is different and may present risks. For this reason, AR Plus creates site-specific H&S strategies that are adapted to your unique needs.

Thanks to our thorough H&S plans, careful risk assessments, and unwavering dedication to worker safety, you can be sure that your project will be finished safely and effectively.

Contact AR Plus today!

Let us put your health and safety first!