Duty to Manage series | 7. Putting the Plan into Action
Implementing Your Asbestos Management Plan: Ensuring Safety and Compliance in Building Management
Asbestos remains a significant concern in many older buildings, necessitating meticulous management to prevent health risks. Once you have crafted an asbestos management plan, the critical next step is to put this plan into action. This process involves a series of well-defined actions, from deciding on the necessity of a licensed contractor to the ongoing management of ACMs. Here's how you can effectively implement your management plan, based on guidance from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
1. Update and Communicate Your Asbestos Register
Your asbestos register is a crucial component of your management plan. It should include accurate and up-to-date information about the presence and condition of ACMs in your building. Ensure that this register is accessible to all relevant parties, including in-house maintenance teams and external contractors, and update it regularly through scheduled condition checks
2. Decide on Management Strategies for Asbestos
When deciding how to manage asbestos left in place, it's essential to include these materials in your asbestos register and ensure they are regularly inspected. For any areas not inspected that are presumed to contain ACMs, arrange for a survey before any work begins. Also, differentiate between non-asbestos materials and ACMs to avoid confusion during maintenance operations.
3. Training and Safety Precautions
Anyone who may encounter asbestos in your building should be appropriately trained. Implementing a permit-to-work system can ensure that workers use safe methods when dealing with asbestos. This training should cover all aspects of asbestos handling, from basic precautions to emergency procedures if asbestos is disturbed.
4. Managing Repair and Removal of Asbestos
If ACMs are damaged, consider sealing, enclosing, or removing them, depending on their condition and the risk of asbestos fiber release. If asbestos disturbance is likely during routine operations, it's safer to remove or protect these materials. Remember, only trained and competent personnel or licensed contractors should perform asbestos removal or major repairs.
5. Licensing Requirements for Asbestos Work
Understanding the distinction between licensable, notifiable non-licensed, and non-licensed work is critical. Licensable work generally involves higher-risk activities, such as removing sprayed asbestos or insulation. Non-licensed work might include minor activities like painting asbestos-containing boards, provided that the asbestos is in good condition. Always consult HSE's regulations to determine the appropriate measures for any planned work.
6. Collaborating with Licensed Contractors
If licensable work is necessary, you'll need to plan this carefully with your contractor, ensuring all health and safety risks are addressed. The Control of Asbestos Regulations requires a 14-day notification period before such work can commence, allowing for proper preparations and safety measures.
7. Ongoing Monitoring and Updates
Continuously monitor the effectiveness of your asbestos management plan. Update the plan and the asbestos register whenever changes occur in the building structure, usage, or personnel. Regular reviews will help identify any needed changes in your management strategy and ensure ongoing compliance with health and safety standards.
For More Information
For further details on asbestos licensing, training requirements, and managing asbestos safely, visit the HSE's guide on asbestos management at HSE Asbestos Duty.
If you require assistance creating or auditing an existing asbestos management plan, then please contact us.