How to Manage and Control Asbestos in Workplace – Code of Practice Checklist
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What This Checklist Is
This checklist is a practical self-review tool that helps businesses reflect on how asbestos risks are identified and managed in the workplace. It is commonly used during internal reviews, planning activities, or improvement discussions where buildings, plant, or materials may contain asbestos. The checklist is intended for owners, managers, and supervisors who want a clear way to sense-check everyday Work Health and Safety practices related to asbestos.
It is a practical review tool, not a compliance test and not legal advice.
How This Checklist Relates to the Code of Practice
A WHS Code of Practice describes accepted ways of managing Work Health and Safety risks in Australia. This checklist reflects the key themes of the Code by focusing on hazard identification, risk assessment, and risk control for asbestos-related work. Answering “Yes” and “No” helps highlight where current arrangements reduce exposure risks and where gaps or weaknesses may exist.
The checklist supports understanding of good practice without claiming legal alignment.
Why Use a Code of Practice Checklist?
Asbestos risks can be overlooked, especially in older workplaces where materials are already in place. A checklist like this helps clarify what “good practice” looks like when managing asbestos safely and consistently. It supports early identification of weak or missing controls and helps set clearer priorities for WHS improvement.
It also supports more informed discussions with workers, advisors, or inspectors about workplace safety.
Key Features
Simple Yes / No checklist format
Written in plain English
Designed for Australian WHS Codes of Practice
Suitable for small and medium businesses
How to Use This Checklist
Work through the questions honestly, based on what actually happens when asbestos risks may be present rather than what is assumed to happen. The checklist is most useful when answers reflect real sites, materials, and work activities.
Treat “No” answers as areas needing further attention. Use the results to prioritise practical actions and revisit the checklist when work activities, buildings, or risks change.
What Inspectors Commonly Expect to See
Inspectors generally focus on how asbestos risks are identified and managed in practice, not just on written documents. They look for evidence that asbestos is recognised, risks are assessed, and controls are applied to prevent exposure. Tools like this checklist support informed decision-making by showing that asbestos risks are actively reviewed and understood.
Action and understanding usually matter more than paperwork alone. Inspectors often want to see that issues identified lead to practical steps being taken.
Notes or action lists from checklist reviews
Changes made to risk controls or work practices
Records showing issues were identified and addressed
FAQs
What types of workplaces should use this checklist?
It is useful for any workplace where asbestos may be present, particularly older buildings or sites with legacy materials. The checklist helps review how risks are managed in everyday work.
Does this checklist cover asbestos removal work?
It focuses on managing and controlling asbestos risks generally. It can support review of controls but does not replace specialist planning for licensed removal work.
Does completing the checklist mean asbestos risks are controlled?
No. The checklist helps identify strengths and gaps but does not control risks on its own. It supports review and improvement.
When should asbestos risks be reviewed?
Reviews are useful when buildings are modified, maintenance work is planned, or new information becomes available. Many businesses also review periodically.
Articles and Further Reading
Regulation s421–s430 – Asbestos Associated Risks – Establishes duties to identify asbestos and manage risks associated with exposure in workplaces.
Regulation s458–s474 – Asbestos Removal Work – Sets specific requirements for planning, conducting, and controlling asbestos removal activities.
About the Author
About the Author
Nathan Owen
Nathan has worked in construction for 15 years, primarily in health and safety and site management. He has frontline experience including operating plant and machinery and post-graduate qualifications in health and safety.