Why & When Do I Need to Notify the HSA About Asbestos Work?

1 Sep 2023

The dangers associated with asbestos removal and disposal are significant, with just a single inhalation of airborne fibres having potentially lethal consequences. Asbestosis and mesothelioma are just two of the possible outcomes when a person is not given adequate protection during demolition and refurbishment works. 

Far too many people in Ireland die each year from asbestos exposure, which is why following all relevant asbestos regulations is so important. 

When Does the HSA Have to Be Notified? 

Naturally, anyone working with these materials is at risk - the question is, when does the HSA need to be notified about asbestos work? Notification is required when any scheduled asbestos-related activity could or will expose staff to a concentration in excess of 0.1 fibres per cubic centimetre. 

HSA notification is also required as per criteria laid out in regulation 5 (b), i.e. short duration maintenance works with non-friable ACMs, removal of non-degraded bonded materials without deterioration, and encapsulation or sealing of non-friable ACMs in good condition.

How Can Employers Notify the HSA of Planned Asbestos Works?

Employers need to send written notification to the Authority, in line with Regulation 11 of the Safety, Health & Welfare at Work (Exposure to Asbestos) 2006. It must also be sent at least 14 days prior to the commencement of such activities. 

A planned work statement can be made by filling out the HSA's notification form, emailing  asbestos.notif@hsa.ie or in writing to Health and Safety Authority, Occupational Hygiene Unit, Metropolitan Building, James Joyce Street, Dublin 1.

If providing notification via other means than the notification form, all information details in Schedule 3 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Exposure to Asbestos) Regulations must be included in the notification.

Protecting Irish Businesses Against the Dangers of Asbestos Exposure 

The reason why asbestos monitoring, asbestos surveys and a range of other control measure exists is because of the very real danger presented by asbestos-containing materials. At OHSS, we offer asbestos awareness training, as well as safety and management services designed to protect Irish businesses from this ongoing threat. 

To find out more about us and our work in occupational hygiene, please take the time to visit us online at www.ohss.ie. Alternatively, to speak to a member of our expert team, call 01 6905907, and we'll be happy to assist however we can.

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