12/07/2021

SafeWork SA has issued a three month suspension to a licenced asbestos assessor.

As part of our state wide asbestos licence holder compliance campaign, our inspectors have been auditing the clearance inspections conducted by asbestos assessors following licensed asbestos removal.

Investigations have determined that this particular assessor issued a clearance certificate without undertaking a proper and effective clearance inspection to verify the area was safe for normal use.

Evidence obtained during our audits clearly show that the licence holder failed to take reasonable care to carry out asbestos assessor work safely and competently”, said SafeWork SA Executive Director, Martyn Campbell.

“We will not tolerate poor performance in regards to licensed asbestos assessor practices. Failure to comply with the asbestos regulations can lead to long term health effects to workers and others.

“An asbestos licence holder must have a greater understanding of the asbestos legislation and code of practices. An expectation exists amongst the community, including the business community that the engagement of a licence holder will give them some certainty that compliance with the legislation is being met.”

During the suspension period they are also required to successfully complete the national VET training course on Conduct asbestos assessment associated with removal.

Images that had received clearance certification from the asbestos assessor clearly showing visible asbestos contamination following the removal.

Close up of asbestos on the floor