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

Paraoccupational air monitoring andclearance inspectionsAir monitoring results404. The results of paraoccupational air monitoring cannot be compared to theasbestos exposure standard specified in the Regulations. The asbestosexposure standard is designed to assist in controlling risk to employees andis measured in the employees’ breathing zone. Paraoccupational air monitoringis conducted at stationary or static positions outside the removal area toevaluate the effectiveness of controls.405. The person who commissioned the removal work must:• give a copy of the results to the licensed removalist as soon as the resultsare received• ensure the results are accessible to the HSR of any affected designatedwork group• ensure the results are accessible to any affected employees.Air monitoring action levels406. Where levels exceed 0.01 fibres/ml, the licensed removalist must takethe following action:• more than 0.01 fibres/ml but less than or equal to 0.05 fibres/ml:– investigate the cause– implement controls to prevent exposure and prevent further release• more than 0.05 fibres/ml:– stop removal work– notify WorkSafe – this needs to be done as soon as possible byphone followed by a fax of the results accompanying a statement thatwork has ceased– investigate the cause – this needs to include a thorough visualinspection of the enclosure (if used) and associated equipment inconsultation with all employees involved with the removal work– implement controls to prevent exposure and further release – thisneeds to include extending the isolated/barricaded area around theremoval area/enclosure as far as reasonably practicable (until airborneasbestos fibre levels are at or below 0.01 fibres/ml), wet wiping andvacuuming the surrounding area, sealing any identified leaks (eg withexpandable foam or tape) and smoke testing the enclosure until it issatisfactorily sealed– do not recommence asbestos removal work until furtherparaoccupational air monitoring is conducted that indicatesthe airborne asbestos fibre levels are at or below 0.01 fibres/ml.407. Employees and other persons entering the area must be adequately protected.This is likely to require respiratory protection (the level will depend on the likelylevel of exposure) and personal protective clothing.Clearance air monitoring408. This type of air monitoring is required after friable ACM has been removedand the area has been cleaned dry to ensure fibre levels are less than0.01 fibres/ml.WorkSafe Victoria Compliance code / Removing asbestos in workplaces 67