Asbestos, recognised as a hazardous material, was once widely used in various components on board ships due to its fire-resistant properties. It poses a significant risk to human health, particularly when the fibres become airborne. Therefore, asbestos identification and management on ships is of utmost importance.
A marine asbestos survey involves inspecting the ship’s structure, including its offshore structures and maritime installations. A specialist with expertise in asbestos will perform the assessment. An asbestos survey provides ship owners with a detailed report by analysing the presence of asbestos and assessing its condition. This report outlines the state of the asbestos, its locations, and any risks and recommends an appropriate management plan.
The survey also ensures that ship owners comply with their legal obligations and meet the legislative framework for the safe removal and disposal of asbestos. Failing to address asbestos on ships can have enormous ramifications, including the risk of claims from crew members and heavy financial penalties.
In conclusion, a marine asbestos survey is essential in identifying and managing the presence of asbestos on board ships. By conducting these surveys, ship owners can protect the health and safety of personnel, meet their legal obligations, and mitigate the financial risks associated with asbestos exposure.
Maritime Asbestos Regulations Australia
The Occupational Health and Safety (Maritime Industry) Act 1993 governs marine asbestos regulations in Australia. Regulations include specific rules for using and managing asbestos on ships and offshore structures. These regulations aim to protect the health and safety of workers in the maritime industry and ensure compliance with international standards. More information can be found on the Australian Maritime Safety Authority website.
Owners, operators, charterers, and manning agents operating in Australian Territorial Waters have specific duties under these regulations. They are responsible for identifying and managing asbestos on board ships and offshore structures to prevent the potential risks associated with exposure to asbestos materials.
It is important to note that Australia implemented a national ban on importing, exporting, and using asbestos on December 31, 2003. This ban prohibits the installation of new asbestos materials and requires the management of in situ asbestos, which refers to asbestos-containing materials already in place. Ship owners and operators must identify and manage any in situ asbestos to ensure the safety and wellbeing of their crew members.
In order to comply with Australian regulations and ensure the health and safety of those working on ships, a survey must be conducted on Australian vessels. This survey is necessary to meet the ongoing prohibition of asbestos on ships and fulfills the obligations of ship owners and operators. It is important to note that Australian law requires operators to take all reasonable measures to protect employees and contractors while at work, as outlined in the Occupational Health and Safety (Maritime Industry) Act 1993 and SOLAS Chapter II-1 Reg. 3-5.2. and in accordance with:
- AS/NZS ISO/IEC 17020 Conformity assessment – Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection; and
- Occupational Health and Safety (Marine Industry) Act 1993.
- The Occupational Health and Safety (Maritime Industry) (National Standards) Regulations 2003.
- AS/NZS ISO/IEC 17020 Conformity assessment – Requirements for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection.
- Code of Practice – How to Manage and Control Asbestos in the Workplace.
- Prohibited Good – Asbestos (Australian Border Force).
- Industry User Guide 7 – Asbestos facilities for import/Export (NATA).
- Guidance on prohibition on the use of asbestos in workplaces in the Seacare jurisdiction (Seacare Authority).
By adhering to these regulations, the maritime industry in Australia can effectively manage asbestos risks and create a safe working environment for everyone involved.
Marine asbestos survey process
Conducting asbestos surveys for maritime vessels involves a comprehensive inspection of different areas of the ship to identify the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). ACMs could be present in engine rooms, boiler rooms, pipe insulation, galleys, living quarters, and the other parts of the vessel.
During the survey, trained professionals collect samples of suspected ACMs, following established guidelines and safety procedures. These samples are then carefully analysed in accredited laboratories to determine the presence and percentage of asbestos fibres. This analysis is crucial for the accurate identification and assessment of potential risks.
After completing the inspections and analysing the samples, the surveyor will produce a report to outline their findings. This report contains information about the location and condition of ACMs, the extent of asbestos-containing materials, and recommendations for managing and controlling these risks. The report also includes an asbestos management plan, which outlines strategies for safe removal, ongoing maintenance, and monitoring to ensure the safety of workers and the environment.
Conducting asbestos surveys for marine vessels poses unique challenges due to time constraints and complex supply chains in the maritime industry. It requires expertise in asbestos and knowledge of the legislative framework surrounding asbestos regulations. However, despite the challenges, these surveys are crucial for maintaining health and safety standards and complying with legal obligations to protect workers and the marine ecosystem.
Martime asbestos re-inspections
Maritime asbestos re-inspections are crucial for ensuring the ongoing safety and compliance of vessels in the marine industry. These regular assessments are necessary to identify any new asbestos materials present or to monitor the deterioration of existing materials.
Should ACMs be remediated, a re-inspection is also essential to determine a complete removal before removing the material from the ship’s asbestos register.
Marine asbestos air monitoring & clearance certificates
Marine asbestos air monitoring involves conducting regular inspections and tests to detect the presence of asbestos fibres in the air on ships and offshore structures.
Once a thorough marine asbestos survey is complete, which involves evaluating sources of asbestos and analysing asbestos-containing materials on board, clearance certificates can be issued.
These certificates are crucial as they confirm that the asbestos levels are within acceptable limits and the environment is safe for personnel.
How can Survey Services help?
Survey Services is a leading provider of marine asbestos surveys and plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations in the maritime industry. With extensive experience working on board vessels and in shore-based buildings, Survey Services has the expertise and knowledge to identify and assess the presence of asbestos materials.
Our highly skilled professionals conduct comprehensive marine asbestos surveys, meticulously examining every inch of the vessel, from the structure to the components and equipment. This thorough inspection enables them to identify any ACMs and assess their condition accurately.
Survey Services profoundly understands the complexities of the marine industry and the challenges that ship owners face. Our asbestos management plans are comprehensive, encompassing strategies for safe removal, ongoing maintenance, and regular re-inspections. We can also provide mould, noise, and occupational hygiene assessments for the maritime industry.