Indawo managing director, Geoffrey Jäck, says it comes down to this. Is your building safe from the effects of deteriorating asbestos and do you comply with the regulations?
The initial requirement is an assessment to identify asbestos and to document this in an inventory. This needs to be done by May 2022.
ASBESTOS RISK ASSESSMENT
If asbestos is identified, then an asbestos risk assessment must be done by a competent person and at intervals not exceeding 24 months thereafter.
An asbestos risk assessment must include a risk categorisation to determine if the asbestos is safe or needs replacement, based on:
- the health impacts of asbestos
- the number of people potentially exposed
- the potential for damage or disturbance of asbestos
- potential incidents and normal activities
- condition of asbestos
The asbestos risk assessment must include the following:
- the assessed risk of exposure to employees and others
- potential contamination of air, ground and water
- controls to reduce exposure
- any environmental air monitoring required
- if exposure risk is high an occupational medical practitioner is required
- potential decontamination of employees and site workers
- transportation and disposal
- emergency procedures
INVENTORY OF ASBESTOS IN PLACE
The regulations state that a competent person must identify asbestos-containing materials. Where it is unclear, a sample must be sent to an approved inspection authority. Jäck recommends that due to the dangers of asbestos dust, samples should be taken by a registered asbestos contractor.
The following information must be noted:
- date when material was identified
- a description of material and extent of deterioration
- location of material in a floor plan
- labels and signage required
- risk categorisation derived from the risk assessment
- description of potential exposure with recommended control procedures.
- planned removal or repairs
The inventory must be updated every 2 years or, where new asbestos is identified or asbestos has deteriorated or is removed, damaged, sealed or encapsulated, then earlier.
Jäck says that the inventory must be:
- available before removal or repairs commence;
- given to the contractor and approved inspection authority
- provided to the new owner of the premises if the property is transferred
An approved inspection authority must review and endorse the inventory and asbestos risk assessment every 6 years.
Jack recommends that building owners consult with a registered asbestos contractor who will appoint an approved inspection authority and health and safety officer to assist with the drafting of a risk assessment and asbestos inventory.
Indawo is a Type 3 Registered Asbestos Contractor. For more information contact Indawo on 021 941 5000 or email info@indawo.biz.
For more information on Asbestos Abatement Regulations, CLICK HERE.
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