Asbestos awareness Toolbox Talk
Asbestos cannot be identified reliably by sight. If work may disturb the building fabric, check reliable survey information and stop whenever the material or scope is uncertain.
Key points
- Assume suspect materials may contain asbestos until reliable information shows otherwise.
- Check the asbestos register, survey and work area before disturbing fabric.
- Confirm the survey covers the exact location and depth of planned work.
- Only suitably trained people may perform work that could disturb asbestos.
- Some work is licensed or notifiable and must go to an appropriate specialist.
- If suspect material is found, stop, keep people out and prevent dust spread.
- Report damage and follow the site asbestos emergency procedure.
Do
- Ask before drilling, cutting or opening voids.
- Read the plan and register.
- Stop and isolate on discovery.
Don't
- Do not sample or clean suspect debris yourself.
- Do not rely on colour or age alone.
- Do not use a domestic vacuum or brush.
Questions to ask the group
- Where is the asbestos information?
- Does it cover our exact work area?
- What will you do on an unexpected discovery?
References: Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012; HSE L143 Managing and working with asbestos