If you hear the warning “this building contains ACM”, it’s essential for anyone entering the site, including electricians, plumbers, builders, and other tradespeople, to understand the risks and responsibilities involved. Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) continue to pose a significant hazard in many commercial properties, and their proper management is crucial for maintaining health, safety, and ensuring legal compliance.
What Tradies Need to Know
ACMs can be found in a wide range of commercial property materials, including:
- Ceilings, walls, and partitions – textured coatings, plasterboard, or acoustic tiles
- Floors – vinyl tiles, backing sheets, adhesives
- Pipes and insulation – lagging around hot water pipes or boilers
- Roofing and cladding – corrugated cement sheets or panels
When performing electrical work, plumbing repairs, or renovations, disturbing ACMs, even accidentally, can release dangerous fibres into the air.
The Importance of an Asbestos Register
If a building contains ACM, the property owner or manager is legally required to:
- Conduct a thorough asbestos inspection
- Prepare an up-to-date asbestos register
- Provide control measures and safety guidance to anyone entering the site
An asbestos register details the type, location, and condition of all known ACMs in the property. For tradies, having access to this document is crucial. Working without it exposes both the worker and the property owner to severe health risks and legal consequences.
Legal and Health Consequences
Failing to manage ACMs properly can result in:
- Serious health risks, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung disease
- Heavy fines and legal action for both property owners and contractors
- Project delays and insurance complications
Even if the property owner is responsible for providing the asbestos register, tradies should proactively request it before starting work. Knowledge is key to safety.
How Tradies Can Protect Themselves
Tradies entering commercial properties should follow these best practices:
- Ask for the asbestos register and read it thoroughly before commencing work
- Avoid disturbing ACMs unless you are licensed to do so
- Use personal protective equipment (PPE), such as respirators and disposable coveralls, if ACMs are on site
- Report any damage or suspected asbestos immediately to the property owner or manager
The Role of Global Asbestos Audits
At Global Asbestos Audits, we provide comprehensive services to ensure commercial properties are safe for everyone on site:
- Professional asbestos inspections to identify ACMs
- Preparation and maintenance of asbestos registers
- Asbestos management plans to guide safe work practices
- Advice for property owners, managers, and tradies on compliance and risk minimisation
By working with experts, commercial property owners can ensure tradies enter the site safely, stay compliant, and reduce liability.
If your building contains ACM, don’t underestimate the risks. Property owners and managers must provide asbestos registers and management plans, while tradies should proactively verify ACM locations and follow safe work practices.
Global Asbestos Audits is the trusted partner for commercial property owners and tradies, providing inspections, registers, and management plans to keep your site safe and compliant.
Contact Global Asbestos Audits today to ensure your commercial property is safe for every tradie entering the site.