Asbestos in Safety Management Systems: Ensuring Compliance and Workplace Protection

Managing asbestos-related risks in the workplace requires a structured and compliant safety management system. Businesses in construction, manufacturing, logistics, and facilities management must ensure they have robust policies, procedures, and training in place to protect workers and meet regulatory obligations. For WHS, Human Resources and Operations Managers, implementing a comprehensive safety management system is essential for maintaining compliance and reducing liability.

Why a Safety Management System is Essential

Asbestos exposure can lead to serious health risks, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Even minor disturbances of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) can release harmful fibres into the air, endangering workers and the public. A well-designed safety management system ensures that businesses:

• Comply with WHS laws and regulations

• Prevent exposure incidents and reduce risk

• Provide clear guidance for workers and contractors

• Demonstrate due diligence in asbestos risk management

Key Components of an Effective Safety Management System

1. Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS)

   • Required for high-risk work involving asbestos.

   • Outlines the control measures to minimise risks.

   • Ensures workers follow safe handling and removal procedures.

2. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

   • Establishes clear, step-by-step instructions for working near or with ACMs.

   • Helps standardise safe asbestos handling practices across the organisation.

3. Asbestos Management Policy

   • Defines the company’s approach to managing asbestos risk.

   • Aligns with WHS legislative requirements and industry best practices.

4. Training and Awareness Programs

   • Ensures workers understand asbestos risks and know how to respond to hazards.

   • Covers asbestos identification, emergency response, and legal obligations.

   • Mandatory under WHS Regulation 2017 for workers at risk of exposure.

5. Procedures for Asbestos Identification and Control

   • Guidelines for asbestos inspections, sampling, and laboratory testing.

   • Asbestos register maintenance and regular reviews.

6. Incident Response and Emergency Plans

   • Clear action plans for accidental asbestos disturbances.

   • Defines containment, decontamination, and reporting procedures.

Ensuring Compliance with WHS Regulations

The Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulation 2017 mandates that businesses must actively manage asbestos risks. Failing to implement proper asbestos safety systems can lead to:

• Legal penalties and compliance fines.

• Workplace exposure incidents and health risks.

• Reputational damage and financial losses.

How Confluence Environmental Can Help

Confluence Environmental provides expert consulting services to develop and implement safety management systems tailored to your business needs. Our services include:

• Preparation of SWMS, SOPs, policies, and procedures.

• Comprehensive asbestos awareness and compliance training.

• Ongoing support for asbestos risk management and compliance audits.

Ensure your workplace is compliant and your workers are protected. Contact Confluence Environmental today to develop a tailored asbestos safety management system for your business.