Asbestos Reference Data
The Asbestos reference data window can be accessed by navigating to Health and Safety > Asbestos > Asbestos, or by clicking Manage Reference Data in the Tasks panel of an asbestos component or asbestos survey record.
Note: You must have a role with the AsbestosReferenceData permission to access this window.
Refer to Manage Reference Data for further information on using reference data screens.
The following reference data is available:
Use this reference data to record the accreditation of the Asbestos Agencies. Representative samples of suspect materials collected on a management survey should be sent for laboratory identification. The laboratories should be able to demonstrate their competence to carry out bulk asbestos analysis (for example: staff training records, certificates from external training providers, testing programmes, participation in quality assurance schemes, satisfactory performance in national proficiency testing programmes, accreditation to ISO 17025 or be able to demonstrate equivalence)
Use this reference data to record material statuses (for example: Not Analysed, No Asbestos Detected, Asbestos Detected, and so on). These form part of the Material Risk assessments, which are used to establish the relative ability of various types of Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACMs) to release fibres into the air, should they be disturbed.
The four main parameters which will determine the amount of fibre release from an Asbestos-Containing Material (ACM) when subject to a standard disturbance are:
- Product type
- Extent of damage or deterioration
- Surface treatment
- Asbestos type
Each parameter is scored as: high = 3, medium = 2 or low = 1; two categories also allow a nil score.
The value assigned to each of the four parameters is added together to give a total score of between 2 and 12. Presumed or strongly presumed asbestos-containing materials are scored as crocidolite (3), unless analysis of similar samples from the building shows a different asbestos type, or if there is a reasoned argument that another type of asbestos was almost always used. Materials with assessment scores of 10 or more are regarded as having a high potential to release fibres if disturbed. Scores of between 7 and 9 are regarded as having a medium potential, and between 5 and 6 a low potential. Scores of 4 or less have a very low potential to release fibres. Non-asbestos materials are not scored. Based on the risk score, a coloured banner with the risk status at the top of the asbestos component assists in visually identifying which components pose the highest risk. The risk band colours may be adjusted in the asbestos reference data section.