Lesson 1.3.2
Asbestos on a water job
When you hit ACM or PACM
Asbestos-Containing Materials, or Presumed Asbestos-Containing Materials, mean full regulatory compliance. Workplace managers must ensure a competent person identifies all asbestos or ACM to manage exposure risk.
Under the WHS Regulations, employers must:
- Train workers who may work with asbestos
- Ensure safe removal by licensed professionals
- Maintain an asbestos register and management plan
Removal is for licensed removalists only, unless the WHS Regulations say otherwise.
On site
- Never use high-pressure water, compressed air, brooms, or anything else that could release asbestos into the air.
- Lifting flooring: if there’s a second layer underneath, assume that layer or its glue contains asbestos.
- Dispose of asbestos waste per your state or territory EPA requirements, at an EPA-licensed facility. Never in general waste.