asbestos Air monitoring
" THe asbestos air monitoring experts "
What is asbestos air monitoring?
Asbestos air monitoring is undertaken during the removal of asbestos-containing materials to ensure that the work area is free from airborne fibres. This process is crucial for safeguarding the health of workers and the surrounding community. By monitoring air quality, we can verify that individuals are not exposed to levels of asbestos dust that could pose serious health risks.
It is of utmost importance to assess the effectiveness of control measures implemented during the removal process. These measures may include physical barriers, negative pressure enclosures, and the use of personal protective equipment. Regular air monitoring helps confirm that these precautions are functioning as intended, providing reassurance that the environment is safe.
The National Occupational Health and Safety Commission (NOHSC) recommends asbestos air monitoring whenever asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are being removed to ensure control measures are working effectively. This monitoring helps confirm that asbestos fibres are not being released into the air at harmful levels.
In public areas, air monitoring is especially important to protect bystanders from potential exposure. The NOHSC strongly advises considering it in these situations to maintain a safe environment.
When asbestos materials are friable (the dangerous kind), meaning they can easily break down and release fibres, air monitoring becomes mandatory to ensure public safety and compliance with health regulations.
when should asbestos air monitoring be done?
types of air monitoring
Background air monitoring
This type of air monitoring is undertaken if there are any concerns that asbestos fibres may be present within the area.
control air monitoring
This type of air monitoring is undertaken during remediation of asbestos containing materials to ensure that the control measures in place are effective.
clearance air monitoring
This type of air monitoring is usually undertaken post remediation to determine if the area is safe to reoccupy.
Personal air monitoring
This type of air monitoring is undertaken to assess an individual’s exposure to asbestos during remediation of asbestos or other types of works.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions that we get most about Asbestos air monitoring
Asbestos air monitoring is crucial in construction to ensure the safety of workers and anyone nearby. It measures airborne asbestos fibres during activities like demolition or renovation, where asbestos-containing materials might be disturbed. This monitoring helps identify if fibre levels exceed safe limits, reducing the risk of asbestos exposure, which can lead to serious health issues such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. It also ensures that control measures, like protective equipment and containment procedures, are effective, keeping the construction site compliant with health and safety regulations.
Asbestos air monitoring involves placing air pumps in areas where asbestos may be disturbed, collecting airborne fibres on filters. After sampling, the filters are sent to a NATA accredited lab for analysis using microscopy (PCM or TEM). Results show fibre concentrations, confirming whether levels are safe or if further action is needed to protect workers and the public.
After asbestos removal, the area is considered safe if air monitoring results show that asbestos fibre levels are below the regulatory limits, typically 0.01 fibres per cubic centimetre (f/cc). A licensed assessor will perform air clearance monitoring, and if the lab analysis confirms low fibre counts, a clearance certificate will be issued, indicating the area is safe for re-occupancy.
Asbestos air monitoring must be conducted by qualified professionals, typically Licensed Asbestos Assessors or occupational hygienists with specialized training in asbestos management. These experts are trained to handle asbestos safely, properly operate sampling equipment, and interpret results in line with regulatory standards. Their expertise ensures that the monitoring process is reliable and compliant with health and safety regulations.
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Contact Us
At every stage of your project, prioritizing safety is essential. At All Clear Group, we’re dedicated to providing you with peace of mind through our prompt and dependable asbestos air monitoring services
Whether you need testing, assessment, or management solutions, our expert team is here to guide you. Contact us today to ensure a safe and compliant environment for you and your employees.
Reach us through
- 49 Dobney Ave, Wagga Wagga, 2650
- (02) 69376200
- info@allcleargroup.com.au
