Asbestos register
You must make an asbestos register document if you have asbestos and/or asbestos containing material (ACM) in your workplace, assumed to be in your workplace, or likely to be in your workplace from time to time.
The asbestos register is a document that lists all identified (or assumed) asbestos in a workplace. The asbestos register is intended to ensure workers and others in the workplace do not accidently disturb asbestos.
An asbestos register is required for workplaces where the building was constructed prior to 31 December 2003 (unless no asbestos has been identified at the workplace).
An asbestos register is a crucial safety tool that records:
- the location, type, and condition of all identified asbestos and ACM
- dates of identification and any changes to the condition of the materials
- assumed asbestos-containing materials where testing is not possible.
This register must be kept up to date and accessible to all workers and other persons who may need to know the location of asbestos in your workplace.
A comprehensive asbestos register may also include:
- details of any asbestos assumed to be in the workplace
- results of any analysis that confirms a material at the workplace is or is not asbestos
- dates when the identification was carried out
- details of inaccessible areas
- details of any past asbestos removal work.
It may also be useful to attach photographs or drawings to visually show the location of the asbestos or ACM in the workplace.
See the Asbestos registers at the workplace guidance material to learn how to develop and maintain a comprehensive asbestos register.
Asbestos management plan
Your asbestos register is an important part of the written asbestos management plan for your workplace. You must have an asbestos management plan prepared for your workplace if asbestos and ACM have been identified or are assumed to be present.
As a PCBU preparing an asbestos management plan, you must consult with your workers and representatives. This includes providing them an opportunity to contribute to the decision-making process. An asbestos management plan must include the following information:
- the identification of asbestos and ACM, for example, a reference or link to the asbestos register for the workplace, and the locations of signs and labels
- decisions, and reasons for the decisions, about the management of asbestos at the workplace, for example, safe work procedures and control measures
- procedures for detailing accidents, incidents or emergencies involving asbestos at the workplace
- workers carrying out work involving asbestos, for example, consultation, information and training responsibilities.
Other information that may be included in the asbestos management plan includes:
- an outline of how asbestos risks will be controlled, including consideration of appropriate control measures
- a timetable for managing risks of exposure, for example, priorities and dates for any reviews, circumstances and activities that could affect the timing of action
- identification of each person with responsibilities under the asbestos management plan and the person’s responsibilities
- procedures, including a timetable for reviewing and, if necessary, revising the asbestos management plan and asbestos register
- air monitoring procedures at the workplace, if required.
You must make the asbestos management plan available to anyone who needs it and keep it up to date, reviewing it at least every five years, or sooner if there are changes to asbestos conditions or control measures.
You can use the Health and safety checklist: Asbestos management to make your asbestos management plan.
For more details, see the How to manage and control asbestos in the workplace: Code of practice