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Advanced Asbestos Removal The Specialists in Asbestos Removal

Wednesday 8 March 2017, 3:25PM

By Beckie Wright

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Asbestos is a major health threat to thousands of New Zealanders and millions of people throughout the world.  In 2010, an estimated 170 people died of asbestos-related diseases, making it the single biggest cause of work-related disease deaths.

Changes to the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 have resulted in an increased responsibility for ‘people in control of a business or undertaking’ (PCBU).  People living and working near asbestos and asbestos contaminated materials should expect their health to be protected as PCBUs and workers use safe practices to manage or remove asbestos. All PCBUs who conduct work involving asbestos, and all workplace PCBUs with workplaces where asbestos is situated, must manage asbestos risks so they do not harm anyone. Complying with regulations made under the Act is mandatory. Penalties apply for failing to comply with their requirements.

Following the identification of asbestos from a certified surveyor, there are a number of factors to consider when selecting a removal company.  It is very important to be comparing apples to apples, as many companies will offer a very low initial quotation, with the actual costs skyrocketing as a result of multiple variations throughout the project’s execution.  Having a quality asbestos survey completed in the initial stage can assist in ensuring that all pricing for a job is based on the same specifications, preventing costly changes in the future.

It is important to ensure that the removal company you employ complies with all legislative requirements under the Health & Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016 and adheres to WorkSafe NZ’s Approved Code of Practice.  All workers should be trained, certified and competent for their roles, and visitors and workers alike provided with top-of-the-line PPE, equipment and plant, which is tested and certified regularly.  When inhaled, the microscopic asbestos fibres can cause problems like the chronic lung disease asbestosis, in which lung tissue can become scarred over time, hampering breathing and raising the risk of cancer, therefore a high standard of respiratory protection equipment is essential to prevent long-term or fatal illness.

A company that offers full on-site project management facilities with regular client reporting included in project costs, from an experienced project manager can ensure projects are completed on time and on budget, and that all responsibilities of both PCBUs are met.  Some companies will offer the option of both fixed price and charge up removal contracts, and will be able to discuss which option would be best for your project, as well as whether they will be operating as lead or subcontractor.  Ensuring the removalists hold adequate full public liability insurance is also imperative, and that reputable independent consultants are used for all clearance certifications.

If someone suspects that they may have friable asbestos product in or around the workplace they should call Advanced Asbestos Removal immediately, and if in doubt they will arrange an independent laboratory analysis.   As specialists in commercial and industrial asbestos removal, New Zealand-owned business Advanced Asbestos Removal can manage the project efficiently, whilst upholding your legal obligations with a strong focus on Health and Safety.    They are so confident in their services that they offer a full guarantee, ensuring no comeback when new regulations are enforced.

To find out more about Advanced Asbestos Removal and their asbestos removal services, please visit the website at http://www.advancedasbestosremoval.co.nz