This Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) applies to all work with asbestos and explains the requirements of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006.
It applies in particular to work on, or which disturbs or is liable to disturb, materials containing asbestos, asbestos sampling and laboratory analysis. The clearing of asbestos-contaminated land is not specifically covered by this ACOP.
An additional ACOP entitled The management of asbestos in non-domestic premises is aimed at those who have duties to manage the risk from asbestos in non-domestic premises. In particular it applies to those who have responsibilities for the maintenance and repair of non-domestic premises where asbestos-containing materials are or are likely to be present in those premises.
The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 came into force on 6 April 2012. This ACOP is currently being reviewed as part of a wider review of HSE's guidance and ACOPs and therefore has not been updated to reflect the changes made in the revised regulations. In practice, the changes are fairly limited and mean that some types of non-licensed work with asbestos now have additional requirements, ie notification of work, medical surveillance and record keeping.
All other requirements, eg relating to licensed work with asbestos, duty to manage, risk assessment, the asbestos control limit, control measures and training requirements, remain unchanged. Find out more about the changes.
HSE has recently consulted on proposals to review its Approved Codes of Practice (ACOPs). Details of proposals and the outcome of the consultation are available.
HSE consulted on proposals to review its Approved Codes of Practice (ACOPs).
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