Clear Signs, Clear Communication: Asbestos Safety

Asbestos removal is a sensitive process requiring careful management and communication. It is not only a safety requirement but also a legal obligation to notify stakeholders such as neighbours and nearby businesses about the work being conducted. This article outlines the importance of clear communication, the legislative requirements, and practical tips for managing concerns from stakeholders.

Why Stakeholder Communication Matters

• Transparency Builds Trust: Open communication reassures neighbours and businesses that the work is being done safely.

• Compliance with Laws: Failing to notify stakeholders can result in breaches of regulations and additional scrutiny from authorities like WorkSafe.

• Reducing Anxiety: Seeing workers in respirators and protective coveralls can alarm uninformed residents. Proper communication helps prevent unnecessary panic.

Legal Requirements for Asbestos Removal

Under New Zealand’s Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016, there are strict requirements for notifying and informing stakeholders about asbestos removal:

1. Notify WorkSafe:

   • All licensed asbestos removal work must be reported to WorkSafe New Zealand before starting.

   • This ensures regulatory oversight and allows authorities to respond to concerns appropriately.

2. Inform Neighbours and Occupants:

   • Adjacent property owners, tenants, and businesses must be informed about the asbestos removal work.

   • Details to include:

     • Dates and times of the work.

     • The safety measures in place to protect people and the environment.

     • Contact information for questions or concerns.

3. Display Warning Signage:

   • Asbestos warning signs must be placed around the perimeter of the site and at all access points.

   • The signage serves to:

     • Alert people to the presence of asbestos hazards.

     • Reinforce that entry is restricted to authorised personnel.

Overcoming Client Concerns About Notifications

Some clients may worry that notifying neighbours will cause alarm or unwanted attention. However, avoiding notification can lead to greater problems:

• Neighbours May Report Suspicious Activity:
  Seeing workers in respirators without prior notice often leads to calls to WorkSafe, drawing attention to the project.

• WorkSafe Already Knows:
  Because asbestos work must be notified to WorkSafe, any complaints from neighbours will highlight insufficient communication and could lead to further investigation.

• Professionalism Reassures:
  Demonstrating compliance with signage and neighbour notifications reflects professionalism and reduces concerns about the project.

Best Practices for Stakeholder Communication

To ensure smooth communication and compliance, follow these steps:

1. Plan Notifications Early:

   • Prepare clear, concise notices for neighbours and businesses.

   • Include a brief explanation of asbestos, the safety measures in place, and who to contact for more information.

2. Use Plain Language:

   • Avoid technical jargon when explaining the work to stakeholders.

   • For example, instead of “friable asbestos removal,” say, “removing materials that can release asbestos dust.”

3. Provide Visual Aids:

   • Include diagrams or images in notifications to show how the site will be contained and kept safe.

4. Offer Reassurance:

   • Highlight that the work follows strict safety standards and that the health of workers and the public is a top priority.

5. Maintain Open Communication:

   • Keep contact details visible on signage and provide regular updates if the project timeline changes.

6. Monitor Feedback:

   • If neighbours raise concerns, address them promptly to avoid escalating the issue.

The Benefits of Proper Communication

When stakeholders are properly informed, projects run more smoothly. Benefits include:

• Fewer Complaints: Clear communication reduces the likelihood of neighbours contacting WorkSafe.

• Regulatory Confidence: Compliance with notification requirements demonstrates that the work is being managed responsibly.

• Stronger Community Relationships: Being transparent about asbestos removal builds trust and confidence in your organisation.

Final Words

• Notifying neighbours and businesses about asbestos removal is a legal requirement in New Zealand. Failure to do so may lead to increased scrutiny from WorkSafe and unnecessary stakeholder concerns.

• Signage around the site ensures compliance and transparency.

• Open, clear communication reduces alarm and helps the project proceed smoothly.

By following these steps and focusing on stakeholder communication, asbestos removal projects can be completed safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption to the surrounding community.