Asbestos control
The regulatory framework requiring employers to manage and control exposure to asbestos fibres at work. Asbestos remains the single largest cause of work-related deaths in GB and Ireland. Each jurisdiction bans the use of asbestos and controls disturbance of existing asbestos-containing materials.
Also known as
By jurisdiction
UK HSE
“asbestos control”Exact equivalentThe Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (SI 2012/632) prohibit the importation, supply and use of asbestos and require employers to manage the risk from asbestos in non-domestic premises. Regulation 4 (duty to manage) requires the dutyholder to assess the location, condition and type of any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) and manage the risk. Licensed work with asbestos requires a licence from HSE.
Irish HSA
“asbestos control”Close equivalentThe Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Exposure to Asbestos) Regulations 2006 (SI 2006/417) implement Directive 2003/18/EC in Ireland. They prohibit the use of asbestos and set exposure limit values and control requirements for work involving disturbance of existing ACMs. An asbestos management survey is required for non-domestic premises.
US OSHA
“asbestos control”Close equivalentOSHA regulates asbestos in general industry under 29 CFR 1910.1001 and in construction under 29 CFR 1926.1101. Permissible exposure limits are set at 0.1 f/cc TWA and 1 f/cc excursion limit. The Class I-IV classification of asbestos work determines the required controls and procedures. Unlike GB and Ireland, OSHA does not operate a licensing regime for asbestos removal contractors.
Practitioner note: The duty bites on disturbance of existing materials, not just removal work. Anyone controlling non-domestic premises carries the duty to manage, including those who never handle asbestos themselves.