Workers involved in refurbishment, maintenance, construction, demolition and other similar trades are at increased risk of exposure to asbestos. In 2015, PDO developed Asbestos Risk Management procedure (PR-2107). This document outlines managers and estate service personnel responsibilities and accountabilities in managing the risks associated with asbestos. It stipulates that All Line managers and estate service personnel are responsible and accountable to the following:
- Not to introduce Asbestos or refractory ceramic fibers into new or existing facilities and buildings.
- All suspected Asbestos and Asbestos containing materials have to be tested before removal in order to identify the type of Asbestos and its concentration. |
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- The collected material sample has to be sent to and tested in a recognized certified lab.
- Removal, adaptation, transportation and disposal of Asbestos shall be carried out by a licensed contractor.
- Identify locations where asbestos containing materials exist and establish a register (Inventory), to include: type of asbestos, location, condition and quantities. Make use of a certified Asbestos surveyor.
- Comply with national legislations, Ministry of environment and PDO specifications.
- Notify the Occupational Health team (MCOH) prior to the start of any Asbestos removal work and demolition of Asbestos containing buildings.
- All Asbestos workers must be subjected to Fitness to Work Medical examination. |
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- Identify workers involved in Asbestos operations and all shall be trained and informed about Asbestos health risks and follow the protective health and safety measures during removal, adaptation, transportation and disposal of asbestos.
- All asbestos workers and anyone else present in the work area where operations with asbestos are carried out must use appropriate PPE including protective clothing and proper respiratory protection.
- All work areas involving Asbestos operations shall be restricted and be marked and demarcated with warning signs.
- Prepare a plan that sets out in detail how the risks from asbestos materials will be managed and periodically review and monitor the plan. |