Removing asbestos in workplaces - Compliance ... - WorkSafe Victoria

AppendicesAppendix I – Removal of asbestos-contaminated dustthat is greater than ‘a minor contamination’This appendix provides an example of how to perform a specific asbestos removal task.It does not address hazards other than asbestos (such as fall from heights or electricalhazards) – these hazards also need to be identified and the associated risk controlled.1. Obtain and review the asbestos register or any other relevant documentationrelating to the presence of asbestos-contaminated dust (from the person whocommissioned the removal work).2. A class A-licensed removalist must perform the removal.3. Ensure a nominated supervisor is on site at all times when the removal is beingperformed.4. Establish where the removal area will be and move all items out of the areaor cover them with 200 micron plastic sheeting if they could be contaminatedduring the removal work.5. Identify and isolate the removal area with appropriately placed durable signsand barricades using methods which may include temporary fencing, bollards,tape, rope or plastic sheeting. Ensure signs and barricades remain in place untila satisfactory visual inspection is completed.6. Put on personal protective equipment (PPE), including disposable coveralls withhood, boots and respirator. Preference needs to be given to boots without lacesas laced boots can be difficult to decontaminate.7. The minimum respiratory protection for this task is a half-face mask with a P1particulate cartridge or alternatively, a disposable P1 respirator provided thata proper fit can be assured. If there is any uncertainty regarding respiratoryprotection, advice from a competent person (such as a hygienist) needs tobe obtained.8. Use damp cloths or an industrial vacuum cleaner fitted with a HEPA filterto collect the asbestos-contaminated dust.9. Place the waste into a 200 micron plastic waste bag or suitable alternatewaste container dedicated for asbestos waste that is clearly labelled withan appropriate warning sign indicating asbestos waste.10. Once all contaminated dust, used rags and waste have been placed in wastecontainers and all tools have been cleaned, begin the personal decontaminationprocess.11. Carry out personal decontamination in a designated area. The method ofpersonal decontamination may vary. The following is one method:• Clean the disposable coveralls and respirator while still wearing them.Coveralls can be cleaned using a HEPA vacuum, damp rag or fine waterspray and the respirator can be cleaned with a wet rag or cloth.• While still wearing the respirator, remove coveralls turning them inside-outto entrap any remaining contamination and then place them into an asbestoswaste bag.• Remove the respirator. If a non-disposable respirator was used, inspect itto ensure it is free from contamination, clean it with a wet rag if necessary,then store in a container. Disposable respirators do not require cleaning.They need to be placed into an asbestos waste bag or waste containerdedicated for asbestos waste.98 Compliance code / Removing asbestos in workplaces WorkSafe Victoria