Asbestos in theinstallation sector

‘Riskmanagementbetween H&S- and environment’

Arco Engelen

Entrepreneur, occupational hygiënist, risk manager,member of CCvD and certified asbestos specialist.

Author of this guide:

PurposePurpose of this pitch is to give you an insight into the background ofAsbestos in the installation sector:

• Exposure to asbestos in the sector ?• Clarify the distinction between H&S- and environmental legislation ?• Exceptions to the obligation to register asbestos?• Is the client aware of his duty?• Risk management and asbestos

Source: training of- and interviews with 2100+ contractors and managers fromthe installation sector

Exposure to asbestos in the installation sector?It is likely that employees are exposed to increased doses of asbestos, withoutprotection or even without being aware, on a regular basis.

Despite• Changes in legislation • Support from the industry• Training in ‘recognising asbestos materials’

Is the distinction clear between H&S- and environmental legislation?The goals of the authorities, H&S- and environmental legislation are often notclear to the client and the employer.

Enviroment: aimed at risk to the surroundingsand the obligation to notify (‘permit’)H&S: aimed at risk to the individual employee

Case: Solar panels on asbestos roof

Exceptions to the obligationto register asbestos?

The law allows for exceptions in the obligation to register asbestos

Contractors assume that this exception allows them to remove asbestosthemselves. However exposure to asbestosfibers is still not allowed !

Case• Asbestos gasket in flanches

Is the client aware of his duty?H&S legislation dictates that the commercial client has a duty to (let) assess therisk to asbestos exposure for the contractor.

• Often the client does not know or want this.• As a consequence, the contractor carries an unnecessarily increased risk• Inspection SZW (social affairs) often only assess the contractor, not the client

Lack of knowledge with (environmental) authorities, client, employee andemployer often leads (or led) to unnecessary exposure to asbestos fibres.

As long as the commercial client is not made accountable for his legal obligationby the Inspection SZW, there will always be tension, leading to unnecessaryexposure to asbestos.

Risk management begins at the start of the process (owner / client) and notwith the mechanic who attended a course to recognise asbestosmaterials

If the client is not specifically involved in the process, then ‘risk guided’ work isnot possible !

Thanks you for your attention