Asbestos Discovery Protocols

Undisturbed Asbestos Materials

If you encounter materials that may contain asbestos and they are undamaged and undisturbed, the immediate action is to stop work and leave the area. It's crucial to inform others of the potential hazard and notify your manager or supervisor.

Verification and Continuing Work

• If your manager confirms the presence of asbestos through the asbestos register and deems it safe, you may continue your work.
• In cases where the presence of asbestos is unknown, a risk assessment is necessary, and the area should be cordoned off until further action is taken.

Disturbed or Damaged Asbestos

In situations where asbestos has been disturbed or damaged, you must take immediate steps to protect yourself and others:

• Alert others in the vicinity of the potential danger and ensure they evacuate the area.
• Avoid causing panic or spreading the contaminant by calmly informing people without raising unnecessary alarm.
• Position yourself at a safe distance from the contaminated area.
• Equip yourself with appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as soon as possible.

Implementing the Asbestos Management Programme

Once the presence of disturbed asbestos is confirmed, activate the asbestos management programme. This typically involves:

• Engaging a decontamination team to handle the clean-up process.
• Ensuring affected individuals receive appropriate decontamination.
• Continuously monitoring the situation for any further risks.