Thursday 31 January 2013
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has opened a 4-week consultation on proposals to revise the Asbestos Approved Code of Practice (ACoP).
Asbestos was used widely as a building material from the 1950s to the mid 1980s, but may be found in any building or structure built prior to 2000. Whilst most asbestos containing materials in good condition present little risk, once they are disturbed, asbestos fibres can be released in to the air where they may be inhaled leading to serious diseases such as lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis.
The revised ACoP would align Guernsey's requirements for the control of asbestos with UK and European best practice. The key changes relate to the general management of asbestos and the introduction of General Principles for the Control of Asbestos, focused on duty holders assessing and managing the risks from asbestos containing materials. Other minor amendments are also required in relation to the disposal of asbestos waste to harmonise the Approved Code of Practice with new environmental pollution and waste legislation introduced in 2012.
Richard Brown, Chief Health and Safety Officer, said:
"We are proposing to clarify the requirements by making it clear that the responsibility for controlling asbestos lies with employers, self-employed workers, contractors, building owners and those in control of workplaces; the revised ACoP will focus on practical advice on how to deal with asbestos.
The proposals do not indicate any change in HSE's policy or strategic objectives, and we will continue to focus our work on those activities that place workers and the public at greater risk."
The consultation on the revised "Control of Asbestos: Approved Code of Practice" 2013 is open from 1 February until 01 March 2013. The full document can be found at http://www.hse.guernsey.gg
Responses and comments can be sent by email to: hse@commerce.gov.gg by 01 March 2013.
Comments should be received not later than the 1st March 2013.
