Employers

Identify any asbestos

In workplaces where asbestos is fixed or installed in a building, structure, ship or plant, all asbestos must be identified, as far as reasonably practicable. 

If you are uncertain about whether asbestos is present you must assume that it is or arrange for a sample to be analysed.

The location of the asbestos needs to be clearly indicated and you must keep and maintain an asbestos register outlining:

• the location of the asbestos,
• the type of asbestos-containing material
• the nature of the material (friable or non-friable)
• the likelihood of the material posing a health risk
• any work activities that may affect or cause deterioration to the material.

Control risk

Employers and people who manage or control a workplace where asbestos is present must eliminate any risk associated with the asbestos by removing it. If it is not reasonably practicable to eliminate the risk, they must reduce the risk as far as reasonably practicable, by:

• enclosing the material; and
• if a risk still remains, sealing the material

You must review (and, where necessary, revise) your risk controls before any change at the workplace that is likely to disturb or damage any asbestos, or at the request of a health and safety representative.

You have a duty to consult employees and health and safety representatives when identifying hazards and deciding on control measures. For more information, see consult.

Asbestos removal

Generally, asbestos removal must be done only by a licensed removalist.

Unlicensed removal of limited amounts of non-friable asbestos is permitted under certain circumstances.

View the regulations

If your worker has a work-related injury or illness, you have duties under the Accident Compensation Act, one of which is to ensure their safe return to work. The employer's obligations include:

• appoint a return to work coordinator,
• develop and implement a return to work plan, and
• support and monitor your worker when they return to work.