Managing multiple buildings? You need an asbestos inventory and priority plan.
When you manage a portfolio of buildings, hospitals, schools, offices, public facilities, you cannot address asbestos one building at a time. You need a systematic inventory across all properties, a condition assessment for each identified material, and a prioritised management plan.
The inventory documents what materials are present, where they are, and what condition they are in. The management plan then determines: what needs immediate removal, what can be safely managed in place, and what schedule of monitoring and re-inspection is required.
This approach is both the legally required standard and the most cost-effective strategy. It avoids unnecessary removal of materials in good condition while ensuring that deteriorating materials are addressed before they become a health risk.
The Problem
School districts and universities manage dozens or hundreds of buildings, many dating from the 1950s, 1980s peak of asbestos use. A systematic inventory identifies which buildings pose the highest risk to students and staff, enabling informed prioritisation of limited budgets.
Without a centralised inventory, maintenance teams risk accidentally disturbing asbestos during routine repairs. The inventory serves as both a compliance document and a practical operational tool that must be consulted before any work order is issued.
What You Need
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it a legal requirement to have an asbestos management plan?
Yes, under Regulation 4 of CAR 2012, duty holders of non-domestic premises must prepare and implement an asbestos management plan. The plan must be reviewed regularly and made available to anyone who may disturb ACMs.
What should be included in an asbestos management plan?
An asbestos management plan should include the asbestos register, risk assessments, monitoring schedules, procedures for managing ACMs, emergency procedures, and a communication plan for informing workers and contractors.
What must be included in an asbestos register?
An asbestos register must record the location, type, condition, and extent of all known or presumed ACMs in the premises. It should also include the risk assessment score and any recommendations for management or removal.
How often should an asbestos register be reviewed?
An asbestos register should be reviewed at least annually, or whenever building changes occur, materials are disturbed, or condition deterioration is observed. Regular re-inspections ensure the register reflects the current state of all identified ACMs.
How long is an asbestos report valid?
An asbestos management survey should be reviewed at least every 12 months or when changes occur in the building. While the survey itself does not expire, the condition of ACMs can change, making regular re-inspections essential.
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