Asbestos Air Monitoring

What is Air Monitoring for Asbestos ?

Air monitoring involves sampling airborne asbestos fibres to assist in assessing exposure to asbestos and the effectiveness of implemented control measures. It must be conducted in accordance with the Guidance Note on the Membrane Filter Method for Estimating Airborne Asbestos Dust, 2nd Edition [NOHSC: 3003 (2005)].

When is air monitoring Required ?

Air monitoring requirements is required during the following scope of works:

1. Friable asbestos removal (Class A removal works)– Air monitoring is mandatory for all friable asbestos removal. This includes prior to dismantling an enclosure and for the purposes of the clearance inspection.
2. More than 10 m2 of non-friable asbestos removal – Air monitoring is not required but may be considered to be carried out by an independent licensed asbestos assessor or competent person to ensure compliance with the duty to eliminate or minimise exposure to airborne asbestos and to ensure the exposure standard is not exceeded.
3. Public Location – Air monitoring should be considered where the asbestos removal work is being undertaken in or next to a public location.

Who must undertake air monitoring?

A person who commissions asbestos removal work that requires a Class A licence must ensure that an independent licensed asbestos assessor undertakes air monitoring of the asbestos removal area at the workplace. In relation to asbestos removal work requiring a licence:

1. Friable asbestos removal – An independent licensed asbestos assessor must be engaged to carry out air monitoring when it is required.
2. Non-friable asbestos removal (more than 10 m2) – An independent licensed asbestos assessor or competent person must be engaged to carry out air monitoring when it is required.

What are the types of Air Monitoring ?

Exposure Air Monitoring:

Exposure monitoring measures the levels of respirable fibres in the breathing zone of the worker while work is being undertaken.

Control Air Monitoring:

Control monitoring ensures that an enclosure or other controls used during asbestos removal are effective at preventing fibres from being found outside the work area.

Clearance Air Monitoring:

Clearance air monitoring ensures that the work area is free of asbestos fibres prior to being certified for reoccupation. If enclosure is installed, it must not be dismantled until a satisfactory visual inspection has been completed and air monitoring results are below the detection limits.