WORKSAFE WA has issued a reminder of an impending change to asbestos licensing.
Business operators have a few weeks to ensure they have the correct asbestos removal licence, because from 1 June 2010, companies which remove more than 10 square metres of bonded asbestos in a workplace will need to have completed an approved training course and hold an asbestos licence.
The limit on bonded asbestos includes asbestos cement material.
According to WorkSafe WA, these changes in the state’s occupational safety and health laws will ensure that only workers with the proper skills and knowledge can remove asbestos.
WorkSafe WA says asbestos cement products do not pose a risk to health if they are left undisturbed, but there can be serious risk of exposure to asbestos fibres during disturbance or removal of asbestos-containing materials.
Such concerns resulted in the Commission for Occupational Safety and Health recommending stronger controls on the removal of asbestos cement sheeting. The changes were made after consultation with industry representatives, unions, organisations and members of the community.
WorkSafe will display a list of asbestos licence holders on its website so anyone who needs asbestos removed will be able to identify properly licensed operators.
Further information on the changes to asbestos regulations can be obtained by telephoning WorkSafe on 9327 8777 or on the website at www.worksafe.wa.gov.au.
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