In Sydney and across NSW, many older buildings contain asbestos, posing significant health risks during renovations or construction. This is why asbestos air monitoring is crucial for compliance with regulations, protecting public health and ensuring safe work environments.
This guide will explain the critical role of effective air monitoring techniques in managing these risks and delve into the different monitoring techniques.
What is asbestos air monitoring?
Asbestos air monitoring is a critical safety measure used to detect asbestos fibres in the air, particularly during activities that disturb materials containing asbestos, such as construction or renovation. This process involves using specialised air pumps to collect air samples from the environment, which are then analysed in a laboratory to measure asbestos fibre concentrations.
It is essential to test for asbestos because prolonged exposure can cause serious breathing and health issues, such as:
- Benign asbestos pleural effusion
- Progressive pleural fibrosis
- Transpulmonary bands
- Rounded atelectasis
- Asbestosis
- Malignant mesothelioma
- Lung cancer
Types of asbestos air monitoring
- Reassurance air testing — This method is used to provide peace of mind to occupants by confirming that the levels of asbestos fibres in the air are safe, typically after asbestos-containing materials have been identified but not disturbed. It is often employed in buildings where asbestos has been found but remains intact and undisturbed to ensure ongoing safety.
- Background air testing — This measures the concentration of asbestos fibres in the air before any work involving asbestos begins, establishing a baseline level of asbestos fibres, which can be useful for comparative analysis during and after the project.
- Leakage air testing — This method checks for asbestos fibres outside the work area to ensure they haven’t escaped into public or non-work spaces, maintaining safety during removal or remediation.
- Clearance air testing —This is a mandatory test performed after asbestos removal to verify that the area has been adequately cleaned and is safe for reoccupation. It follows every asbestos removal project before the containment measures are dismantled and normal activities resume.
- Personal air testing — This strategy measures the number of asbestos fibres in the air within an individual worker’s breathing zone to assess their exposure during work operations.
Legal requirements and protocol
Asbestos air testing and removal must be performed by a licensed professional, and it’s essential in a variety of settings to manage risks and comply with safety regulations, such as:
- Demolition of buildings containing asbestos.
- Renovation or remodelling of older buildings.
- Routine inspections of schools and public buildings.
- Occupational health assessments in workplaces.
- During asbestos removal projects to ensure containment.
- Verification after asbestos abatement to ensure areas are safe.
- Assessing commercial properties during real estate transactions.
Following these scenarios, SafeWork NSW mandates strict protocols to ensure health and safety:
- Licensing — Businesses must hold a Class A or Class B asbestos removal licence, allowing them to handle friable and non-friable asbestos, respectively.
- Notification — Notification of any asbestos removal is required at least five days in advance, with details on the scope and methods used.
- Asbestos removal control plan (ARCP) — Before any removal work begins, a detailed ARCP must be prepared, outlining the procedures and safety measures to be followed.
- Air monitoring — This is required during and after asbestos removal, conducted by an independent licensed assessor, to ensure fibre levels are safe.
- Health monitoring — Workers involved in asbestos-related activities must undergo health monitoring.
- Clearance inspection — A licensed assessor must verify that an area is safe post-asbestos removal.
Take action on asbestos safety with EnviroX
For expert guidance on air monitoring asbestos by licensed professionals in NSW, don’t hesitate to reach out to EnviroX. Learn more about how our asbestos monitoring services can help you manage and mitigate risks for your project, or you can request a quote today to secure the safety of your environment.