Asbestos training for workers

Problem

Training is a universal need for those who work around asbestos – everyone from tradespeople, home renovators and council workers.

Work health and safety laws require that if you are working around or with asbestos you are trained in safe asbestos management, but the quality and effectiveness of training can vary substantially. Tradespeople are often trained as part of their apprenticeship but training is not refreshed later.

Work health and safety laws don’t apply to do-it-yourself renovators (they are not paid workers), so no training is required.

Outcomes sought

• That all workers who come into contact with asbestos have the knowledge and confidence to deal with it safely.
• That awareness about asbestos and how to keep safe is the norm in NSW.

Key issues to address

• Vocational training for workers entering trades is a focus of the Commonwealth Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency (ASEA) as a nation-wide issue. NSW supports the ASEA recommendation to get accredited, consistent training across Australia.
• Training for other workers across a diverse range of occupations is still subject to work health and safety laws requiring training, but is variable or not maintained.
• DIY renovators and handypeople currently fall through gaps and there is no mandatory training requirement when working on your home. Some other states and territories have schemes to capture this group.