Unexpected Asbestos Discovery Stop-Work Procedure

This procedure applies during maintenance, construction, refurbishment or demolition work where unexpected asbestos or suspect material is discovered at [site name].

When to use this procedure

Use this procedure when further asbestos material or suspect material is uncovered during authorised work in [discovery location].

Stop the work

Stop the work immediately when unexpected asbestos or suspect material is uncovered. Do not continue the affected work while the discovery is being addressed.

Make the area safe

Make the affected area safe in accordance with the arrangements for the work. The area must remain safe before the work is reassessed.

Reassess the work

Reassess the work before any continuation is considered. The reassessment must address the unexpected asbestos or suspect material and the work affected by the discovery.

Revise the work controls

Revise the assessment and method statement for the work where the reassessment identifies that they must change. The revised documents must reflect the discovery before work is considered for restart.

Authorise restart

Work may restart only after the area has been made safe, the work has been reassessed and the revised assessment and method statement have been considered by [restart authorising person].

The person authorising restart must confirm that the work is appropriately authorised before continuation.

If the work cannot be reassessed

Keep the work stopped if the area has not been made safe or the work has not been reassessed. Do not continue until the required authorisation to restart has been obtained.

Procedure outcome

The work remains stopped until the unexpected discovery has been addressed through making the area safe, reassessing the work and obtaining authorisation to restart.