Asbestos basics for duty holders

If you manage, or are in control of, a workplace you have a responsibility to protect the health and safety of those who work with asbestos. 

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What is asbestos? 

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral and typically found in rock, sediment or soil. Asbestos was once considered very useful for building products, gaskets, and friction materials like brake linings. 

However, asbestos is a health risk when its fibres are released into the air and breathed in. Breathing in asbestos fibres can cause asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma.  

What do the model WHS laws require in relation to asbestos? 

This video highlights the responsibilities of a duty holder under the model Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act, and five steps for managing and controlling asbestos in the workplace. 

You must: 

  • have an asbestos register 
  • have an asbestos management plan 
  • control asbestos in your workplace 
  • hold the right training and licensing 
  • monitor your workers’ health 

For more detailed information on these steps, please visit our Asbestos page. 

Who is this seminar for? 

This video is useful for: 

  • duty holders (those who manage or control a workplace) under the WHS Act 
  • workers in the construction, manufacturing, or public administration and safety industries. 

About the presenter 

Brian Eva is a certified occupational hygienist. Brian is the Managing Director of occupational health, safety and environmental risk management company, Eva and Associates Pty Ltd. 

With many years’ experience, Brian has conducted environmental and occupational health and safety audits in many industries throughout Australia and South East Asia. 

Supporting information 

Document type
Video and audio
Tag by Topic
Asbestos
Law and regulation