HSE Launches Consultation on Asbestos ACOPs
The HSE has launched a consultation period in respect of proposed changes to the current Approved Codes of Practice (ACOPs) L127 and L143, relating to working with and managing asbestosAsbestos is the single greatest cause of work-related deaths in the UK1. Asbestos was extensively used in construction materials up until the late 1990s, and is present in a significant number of bu... More containing materials. The consultation period will last for a total of 12 weeks, ending on 30th September 2013.
The changes relate to L127 (The management of asbestos in non-domestic premises) and L143 (Work with materials containing asbestos) which will be combined into a single, revised ACOP (L143).
The objective of the new consolidated ACOP (L143) is to provide practical guidance on complying with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, as well as to assist dutyholders in meeting their legal obligations. The revised ACOP is also intended to reduce over compliance following recommendations made in Professor Löfstedt’s review of health and safety legislation, “Reclaiming health and safety for all”.
The significant revisions and other changes of note that have been made include:
- Material supporting regulations 2, 3, 9 and 22 revised to reflect changes to the law on notification of certain non licensed work with asbestos and consequent arrangements for segregation of asbestos work areas, medical examinations for employees and keeping health records.
- Material supporting regulation 10 reviewed and updated to help employers understand what they need to do to provide information, instruction and training for employees.
- Revisions made to the Control of Asbestos Regulations to reflect the changes made in 2012.
To view a copy of the consultation documents, click here. These remain open until 30th September 2013.