Air monitoring means airborne asbestos Fibro sampling that assesses exposures and the effectiveness of control measures. Air monitoring includes exposure, control, and clearance monitoring.
All air monitoring must be undertaken by Safe Work Australia.
When is air monitoring required?
Air monitoring is mandatory for all friable asbestos removal and must:
- include the asbestos removal area including inside an enclosure
- be carried out immediately before commencing removal work except where glove bags are being used
- be carried out during the removal work and at other times decided by an independent licensed asbestos assessor
- be carried out after work on the asbestos has been completed and the area decontaminated
- be carried out prior to any enclosures being dismantled.
An air monitoring program is not always necessary for the removal of non-friable asbestos material, or during asbestos-related work, however, it is regarded as good occupational hygiene practice.
However, air monitoring must be carried out during asbestos-related work if the person conducting the business or undertaking is uncertain as to whether the exposure standard for asbestos is likely to be exceeded.
