New Guidance for Health and Safety Representatives on Asbestos

‍This is an abridgement of an article posted by Paragon WHS

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The guidance is designed to help HSRs confidently carry out their representative role in workplaces where asbestos may be present or disturbed.

Asbestos remains a significant health risk, particularly in older buildings, plant and infrastructure. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, fibres can become airborne and inhaled, leading to serious long-term illnesses including mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis. HSRs play an important role in representing workers’ concerns and supporting effective asbestos risk management.

What the Guidance Covers

The guidance provides practical information to help HSRs recognise where asbestos risks may arise and understand how those risks should be managed. It explains common sources of asbestos-containing materials, how exposure can occur, and the importance of preventing disturbance wherever possible.

A key focus is helping HSRs ask the right questions and engage in meaningful consultation. The guidance supports HSRs to check whether asbestos risks have been identified, whether appropriate controls are in place, and whether workers have been provided with clear information, instruction and training.

An accompanying checklist is intended as a practical tool to assist HSRs when discussing asbestos with management and workers. It helps prompt conversations around asbestos registers, risk assessments, control measures, monitoring and communication.

The Role of HSRs in Asbestos Aafety

The guidance reinforces that HSRs are not expected to be asbestos experts, nor are they responsible for fixing asbestos hazards. Their role is to represent their work group, raise concerns, participate in consultation and help ensure asbestos risks are identified and managed appropriately.

By having a clearer understanding of asbestos risks and control measures, HSRs can more confidently exercise their powers and functions, support workers, and contribute to safer decision-making where asbestos hazards are present.

What This Means For Workplaces

For workplaces where asbestos may exist, the guidance serves as an important reminder of the ongoing need for effective asbestos management. Employers should ensure HSRs are supported to access this guidance, raise concerns, and participate in asbestos-related discussions and risk management processes.

Supporting HSRs in their role helps improve awareness, strengthens consultation, and contributes to safer workplaces where asbestos risks are managed responsibly and proactively.

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