Most NSW workplaces in buildings constructed before 2004 are legally required to have an asbestos register. Here’s who needs one and what it must contain.
Under NSW work health and safety law, a person with management or control of a workplace must ensure an asbestos register is prepared and kept if asbestos has been identified, or is likely to be present. In practice this covers the vast majority of commercial and workplace buildings constructed before 31 December 2003.
It applies to employers, building owners, PCBUs and managing agents responsible for workplaces — including offices, shops, warehouses, factories, schools, childcare centres, aged-care facilities, medical premises, strata common property and more. If workers or contractors could encounter asbestos, a register is almost certainly required.
An asbestos register records the identified (or presumed) asbestos-containing materials at the workplace — their location, type and condition — and the date they were identified. It must be readily accessible to workers, contractors and anyone who might disturb the material, and reviewed and kept current over time.
A private residence isn’t a workplace, so a homeowner generally doesn’t need a register — but the moment tradespeople work there, asbestos duties come into play. If you’re unsure, an inspection is the sensible first step.
Have a question about your property or obligations? Get straightforward advice from a licensed asbestos consultant.