WSH Guidelines on Management and Removal of Asbestos

This training course focuses on the safe handling and management of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in buildings, ships, and industrial facilities. Asbestos, once widely used for its fire, heat, and chemical resistance, poses severe health risks, including lung diseases and cancer, when its fibers are inhaled. In response to these dangers, Singapore banned the use of asbestos in buildings in 1988. However, many older structures still contain asbestos, which can be disturbed during construction, renovation, or demolition activities, releasing harmful fibers into the air.

This course aims to educate contractors, building owners, and workers on the proper identification, handling, and management of ACMs to minimize the risk of exposure. The training covers key work activities that may involve asbestos, such as repair, dismantling, renovation, and maintenance, as well as operations like cutting, sawing, grinding, drilling, and lagging. Participants will gain an understanding of how these activities can disturb ACMs, releasing fibers that can harm workers and building occupants.

The course also provides a comprehensive overview of the health effects associated with asbestos exposure, such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. It emphasizes the importance of early identification of ACMs and outlines industry best practices for working safely with asbestos. These practices include air monitoring, proper protective equipment, and safe removal procedures. Additionally, the course will cover the need for specialized training and medical surveillance for workers involved in asbestos-related activities.

By the end of the training, participants will be able to:

• Identify asbestos-containing materials in workplaces.
• Understand the severe health risks posed by asbestos exposure.
• Implement control measures to safely manage asbestos and ACMs in their work environments.

This training is essential for professionals in construction, shipyards, petrochemical plants, and any facility where asbestos might still be present, helping them ensure a safer working environment and compliance with safety regulations.