ACT cracks down on asbestos management

New laws for the ACT have commenced this month for asbestos management in non-residential premises.

The Dangerous Substances (General) Regulation 2004 now provides an asbestos-specific management and control regime for non-residential premises consistent with the recommendations of the ACT Asbestos Task Force Report of August 2005.

The recent changes are hoped to create a more effective system of directing resources towards best practice asbestos management procedures.

"The new regulatory regime only applies to non-residential premises built before 31 December 2003," said Barr. "This date is consistent with the national ban on the importation, manufacture and use of asbestos products.

"The date by which you must comply with these laws varies depending on what type of building you are in control of. The first compliance date is on 1 September 2008 for multi-storey buildings."

For more information on the laws and obligations, visit the ACT Government asbestos website www.asbestos.act.gov.au.