POLICY ON ASBESTOS SAFETY
Airborne asbestos fibres may be inhaled into the lung where they can contribute to development of lung disease such as asbestosis, mesothelioma and other cancers. In NSW restrictions have been placed on asbestos usage through the NSW Occupational Health & Safety Act, the Asbestos Dust Regulation and other associated legislation. In recognition of these, every effort will be made to eliminate the use of asbestos materials in processes and projects carried out by the University.
Traditional asbestos uses will be substituted by safer, non-asbestos materials wherever possible. In the absence of substitute materials, special precautions, as required under the Worksafe Code of Practice on the Handling and Removal of Asbestos Products, will be adhered to. Handling of all products containing asbestos will be in accordance with the Worksafe Code and the requirements of regulations under the NSW Occupational Health and Safety Act.
A register will be kept of all known locations of asbestos throughout University buildings and these locations will be closely monitored by the Asset Manager, Campus Property Services.
- Fire blankets of asbestos content are to be properly disposed of and replaced with glass fibre products.
- Items containing asbestos, such as gloves, mitts, mats and insulating materials for use in hot work are to be replaced with ceramic fibre products.
See the Guidelines for Disposal of Asbestos for information on how to arrange disposal of asbestos containing items, including building fabric, appliances with asbestos content and asbestos items.
If you are concerned about a possible asbestos hazard in the University, contact the Asset Manager, Campus Property Services (phone the CPS Service Desk on ext 17838 or the Asset Manager on ext 13345).
Notes
Authorised by Risk Management Office 1/6/94
Reviewed on 25/1/07 by:
Jon D'Astoli
Manager, Occupational Health and Safety
OHS & Injury Management