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On asbestos

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http www hse gov uk asbestos essentials index htm

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Asbestos essentials

Updated legislation. As we stated recently, the HSE updated the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR) in April (yr.10, iss.16, pg.3 see The next step). As we said, these changes are relatively minor and will only affect those who work with asbestos (or are planning to).

Much guidance. Although you might assume that all work on asbestos must be carried out by specialist contractors in blue suits and breathing equipment, this isn’t true. Many jobs, such as the removal of asbestos roof panels, can be completed by pretty much anyone - as long as they know how to do it safely. Although the HSE usually leaves it up to individual duty holders to work out appropriate safe systems of work, with asbestos, it’s a bit different.

How to do it. The HSE has produced numerous “Asbestos Essentials” guidance documents (see The next step). These identify who can carry out the work, whether the HSE must be notified of the project, what the risks are, the control measures to be followed - and much more.

Note. All of these documents have been updated to reflect the changes made to the CAR in April.

Tip. Although the guidance isn’t legally binding, it does identify industry best practice. As such, it’s definitely worth following it.

For a previous article (HS 10.18.08A) and for a link to the Asbestos Essentials website (HS 10.18.08B), visit http://healthandsafety.indicator.co.uk.