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Thursday 30 October 2008

Report on asbestos literature finds little research

Despite the presence of regulations and guidelines on the safe handling and removal of asbestos, there is a general lack of awareness regarding the appropriate methods to detect, manage, remove and dispose of asbestos.THE AUSTRALIAN Safety and Compensation Council (ASCC) has released a report on the national and international literature available for the management and control of Asbestos.
The Council has also committed to further research into current work practices in Australian workplace in regards to in-situ asbestos.
The literature review looks at information on current work practices and exposures to asbestos in workplaces, as well as policies and practices needed to manage asbestos.
The report found there has been little research on the current work practices and potential exposures to the material. It located five relevant studies, including two from Australia.
Despite the presence of regulations and guidelines on the safe handling and removal of asbestos, there is a general lack of awareness regarding the appropriate methods to detect, manage, remove and dispose of asbestos.
Although most guidelines specify the removal of asbestos materials, in some cases, if the material is in good condition and is not a significant threat to health, it might be better to maintain the material rather than risk removal.

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