Asbestos Management Plans
Summary
An Asbestos Management Plan (AMP) is a site-specific document that sets out how asbestos-containing materials (ACM) will be identified, managed and controlled within a workplace or property. The purpose of an AMP is to prevent exposure to asbestos fibres and ensure ongoing compliance with work health and safety requirements.
AMPs are commonly required for workplaces and non-residential buildings where asbestos is present or likely to be present, particularly in buildings constructed prior to asbestos bans in Australia.
Definition
An Asbestos Management Plan is a formal management document prepared to describe the location, condition and risk of asbestos-containing materials at a site, and to define the procedures and controls used to manage those materials safely.
An AMP is typically informed by an asbestos inspection or register and is maintained as a live document that must be reviewed and updated when site conditions, use or asbestos risks change.
Why Asbestos Management Plans Matter
From a health perspective, asbestos management plans play a critical role in preventing inadvertent exposure. Even where asbestos is in good condition, disturbance during maintenance, refurbishment or emergency works can release fibres if risks are not properly managed.
From a compliance standpoint, an AMP provides a clear framework for meeting work health and safety obligations. It defines responsibilities, control measures and procedures that must be followed by workers, contractors and building occupants.
AMPs also support practical site management. By clearly identifying ACM locations and setting out permitted and prohibited activities, an AMP reduces uncertainty during routine maintenance and helps avoid unplanned asbestos disturbance, delays or incidents.
When an Asbestos Management Plan Is Required
An Asbestos Management Plan is typically required where:
Asbestos-containing materials are present or presumed present at a workplace
A building was constructed prior to asbestos bans and is used for non-residential purposes
Maintenance, refurbishment or ongoing occupation may disturb ACM
Work health and safety legislation requires formal asbestos management arrangements
Regulatory audits or client requirements mandate an AMP
In many cases, an AMP must be in place before a site can be lawfully occupied or maintained.
Typical Contents of an Asbestos Management Plan
While the level of detail varies by site, an AMP commonly includes:
A summary of asbestos inspection and register information
Identification and risk assessment of ACM
Control measures for preventing disturbance or exposure
Procedures for maintenance, emergencies and incidents
Requirements for training, communication and signage
Review, audit and update processes
The plan is intended to be practical and accessible to those who rely on it day-to-day.
Legislative and Regulatory Context
Asbestos Management Plans are required under work health and safety legislation across Australia.
In New South Wales, WHS legislation and SafeWork NSW guidance require duty holders to ensure that asbestos risks are managed so far as is reasonably practicable. An AMP is a key mechanism for demonstrating compliance with these obligations.
Failure to implement or maintain an AMP where required can result in regulatory action and increased liability.
How We Can Help
Confluence Environmental prepares Asbestos Management Plans as part of broader asbestos and hazardous materials consulting services.
Our services typically include:
Integration of AMP requirements with asbestos registers and inspections
Review and update of existing AMPs
Advice on compliance, training and implementation
Ongoing support where site conditions or use change
We focus on producing AMPs that are clear, practical and aligned with how sites are actually operated.
Related Terms and Concepts
Asbestos
Asbestos Register
Asbestos Contamination
Friable Asbestos
Non-Friable Asbestos
Asbestos Clearance Inspection
Air Monitoring
Hazardous Materials Survey