Dealing with Asbestos in the Workplace

Asbestos in the workplace is a serious issue. Did you know that WorkSafe safety inspectors issue on-the-spot fines to businesses that appoint unlicensed asbestos removalists or licensed asbestos removalists that fail to notify WorkSafe of asbestos removal?

It’s important to understand your obligations as an employer because the fines can be hefty and the consequences of mishandling asbestos can be deadly.

WorkSafe must be notified five days before any asbestos removal work is undertaken. If you identify asbestos in your workplace that is in good condition, has not been disturbed and cannot release fibres into the air, it may be safer to leave it where it is and monitor its condition regularly.

As an employer, there are several things you can do to manage asbestos. These include notifying employees, controlling the risk, and keeping and regularly updating an asbestos register.

Recovery Partners offers Asbestos Awareness training, and as always, our Safety Team can work with you to ensure you are meeting your employer obligations.

The topics to be covered by the training are chosen to be relevant to your business, industry and workers being trained. We provide scenarios and examples of asbestos pieces in a safe and controlled environment to ensure that your workers can accurately identify asbestos.

Delivery of the course is based on adult learning principles and is limited to a maximum of 16 people per session. We encourage a high level of participation from all attendees. This is achieved through activities, case examples and discussion. Training will be customised to your current procedures and worksite, and all participants will be issued with a workbook.

Our services are available nationwide. For more information about our services contact us.

Our consultants love to have a chat, so go ahead and give us a call on 1300 OHS RTW (647 789) or email enquiries@rrp.com.au