Asbestos management campaign

03 August 2023
News
When:August to October 2023
Venue:N/A
Contact:Work Health and Safety Assurance Team, NT WorkSafe
Phone:1800 019 115
Email:ntworksafe@nt.gov.au

NT WorkSafe Inspectors will be contacting commercial property owners, managers and tenants to discuss asbestos management requirements for commercial buildings built before 2004.

Asbestos is a known carcinogen and inhalation of asbestos fibres can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis. Asbestos containing material was used extensively in construction products up until the 1980’s.

A key requirement is preparing an asbestos register, which is a document that lists all identified (or assumed) asbestos in a building. Its purpose is to ensure workers and contractors working in the building are aware of where asbestos is located so not to accidently disturb it.

Intact asbestos products in good condition is safe, but disturbing asbestos can release fibres and potentially expose nearby people to its harmful effects.

Who is responsible for the asbestos register?

The following have responsibility for preparing and maintaining an asbestos register:

  • Commercial property owners who manages the building, or
  • Commercial property managers whose contract gives them management or control of the building, or
  • Tenants of a commercial building, whose lease allows them to make structural changes to the building.

What if asbestos is identified?

If asbestos has been identified, NT WorkSafe Inspectors will discuss the additional requirements of:

  • An Asbestos Management Plan.
  • Signage and label requirements to mark identified locations of asbestos.

Further information

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