CPCCDE3015A
Remove friable asbestos

This unit of competency specifies the outcomes required to remove friable asbestos containing material (ACM). The unit includes preparing, enclosing and removing friable ACM, and includes knowledge of decontamination and disposal requirements.

Application

Site location for work may be either domestic or commercial, and may be a demolition site, a new work site or an existing structure being renovated, extended, restored or maintained. Project sites may be construction sites and may also include ships, soils in relation to the friable asbestos removal process, and fences.


Prerequisites

CPCCOHS1001A

Work safely in the construction industry


Elements and Performance Criteria

1

Prepare for asbestos removal.

1.1

Work instructions and asbestos removal control plan (ARCP) are obtained and information is confirmed and applied for preparation purposes.

1.2

Safety requirements and data gathered from an on-site assessment, an asbestos register where available, and other information sources are used to prepare for a safe and compliant removal process.

1.3

Required quantity of materials is calculated according to plans, specifications and quality requirements.

1.4

Environmental requirements are identified for the project according to environmental plans, and regulatory obligations are applied.

1.5

Processes required to meet health surveillance requirements are undertaken and contributions to air monitoring are made in line with level of authority and responsibility.

1.6

Preparation for the removal process is finalised and authorised obtained according to legislative and company requirements and the ARCP.

1.7

Plant, equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE) consistent with job requirements are selected to carry out tasks, checked for serviceability, and faults are rectified or reported prior to commencement.

2

Prepare asbestos removal area and removal site.

2.1

Friable asbestos containing materials to be removed are identified, asbestos register is checked, and clarification sought from supervisor as required according to workplace procedures.

2.2

Signage and barricade requirements are identified and implemented to delineate the work area from the site area.

2.3

Decontamination unit is positioned and assembled to manufacturer requirements.

2.4

Services are connected to decontamination unit according to regulatory requirements and codes of practice.

2.5

Decontamination procedure is tested within scope of own responsibility and according to workplace procedures and the ARCP.

2.6

Materials and equipment required for removal of ACM from projectsites are identified, checked and prepared for operation.

2.7

Processes are undertaken to ensure the safety of the site, including ensuring where necessary that utilities are deactivated, contained, diverted or secured prior to commencing work.

2.8

Occupants, neighbours and other affected parties are notified according to legislation and the code of practice and within scope of own responsibility.

3

Enclose removal site.

3.1

Requirements to enclose the removal site safely to prevent the further release of fibres are followed according to the ARCP and legislative and company requirements.

3.2

Types of enclosures, impact of the size of the removal on the methodology selected, and types and use of removal processes are identified.

3.3

Contribution is made within limits of responsibility to ensure negative air pressure is maintained within the enclosure in line with legislative requirements, and enclosure is inspected and smoke tested for air tightness.

3.4

Notification of proposed asbestos removal is provided to the licensed assessor within required timeframe and limits of own responsibility.

4

Carry out asbestos removal process.

4.1

Asbestos is removed from work site and work area using safe work methods and according to ARCP, regulatory requirements and codes of practice.

4.2

Removed asbestos is contained and placed into double-lined removal bags or bins, sealed, labelled and removed from site according to regulatory requirements and the ARCP.

4.3

Manual-handling principles for bagged and sealed ACM are used wherever possible to prevent breakages of plastic.

5

Carry out decontamination process.

5.1

Decontamination unit is used according to manufacturer and regulatory requirements and codes of practice.

5.2

Decontamination of the work area is carried out according to workplace procedures, ARCP and regulatory requirements.

5.3

Decontamination of asbestos removal workers is carried out according to workplace procedures, ARCP and regulatory requirements.

5.4

Approval to dismantle asbestos removal and decontamination equipment is gained according to regulatory requirements and codes of practice.

5.5

Asbestos removal and decontamination equipment is removed from the area according to the ARCP and regulatory requirements, and following clearance from the licensed asbestos assessor.

6

Clean up work site.

6.1

Work area is cleared and materials disposed of according to legislation, regulations, codes of practice and job specification.

6.2

Plant, tools and equipment are cleaned, checked, maintained and stored according to manufacturer recommendations and standard work practices.

6.3

Work area is inspected for asbestos dust and debris to ensure compliance prior to a clearance inspection.

7

Contribute to and use documentation in line with regulatory requirements.

7.1

Contribution is made within limits of own responsibility to the preparation and use of documentation for regulatory notification processes, according to legislative and company requirements.

7.2

Steps are taken within limits of own responsibility to ensure clearance inspection requirements are met and clearance certificate is gained.

7.3

Contribution is made within limits of own responsibility to the preparation and use of an emergency plan and according to legislative and company requirements.

7.4

Contribution is made within limits of own responsibility to the preparation and use of a certified safety management systems (SMS) according to legislative and company requirements.

Required Skills

Required skills

communication and appropriate level of language skills to:

determine requirements

enable clear and direct communication, using questioning to identify and confirm requirements, share information, listen and understand

follow instructions

read and apply:

documentation from a variety of sources

drawings and specifications

use language and concepts appropriate to cultural differences

initiative and enterprise skills to:

evaluate own actions and make judgements about performance and necessary improvements

identify and report faults in tools, equipment and materials

planning and organising skills to:

plan and set out work

recognise procedures, follow instructions and contribute to workplace responsibilities, such as current environmental and safety systems and the ARCP

teamwork skills to:

coordinate own work with others to action tasks

relate to people from a range of cultural and ethnic backgrounds and with varying physical and mental abilities

self-management skills to:

work independently and in teams to read and interpret relevant documentation and to plan friable asbestos removal tasks according to the recommended safe work method

set up the asbestos removal area according to the safe work method

apply general WHS requirements and construction safety requirements, including applying safe work methods for the removal of friable asbestos

follow correct cleaning, decontamination and disposal procedures

use, fit and maintain PPE, decontamination equipment, and hand and power tools safely

Required knowledge

range of materials manufactured using asbestos, the type and characteristics of asbestos used in each material, the usual applications associated with the material

methods and purpose for assessing hazards relating to friable ACM, together with an understanding of:

health effects caused by exposure to ACM and requirement for safe handling and removal

health impacts on the community and requirement for safe handling and disposal

decontamination techniques

general WHS procedures for construction work

health hazards associated with friable ACM, such as:

weathering

wear and tear

application of tools and equipment

accidental damage

licensing requirements for the use of specific equipment, such as excavators

hazards associated with using enclosures and removing friable asbestos

requirements of current legislation and standards relating to asbestos safety, and the decontamination and disposal of asbestos waste

general construction terminology

handling requirements of differing types of asbestos materials

work site and work area procedures

job safety analysis (JSA) and safe work method statements (SWMS) if required for construction

safety data sheets (SDS)

materials storage and hazardous waste management

method of operation, and cleaning, use and maintenance requirements of equipment

demolition plant and equipment as applicable to asbestos removal only

plans, drawings and specifications, asbestos registers and register amendments

quality requirements relating to the removal of friable asbestos

risk assessment processes and contingency planning relating to the removal of friable asbestos

techniques associated with enclosing and removing asbestos, including:

use of large and small-scale enclosures for different sites

use of negative pressure exhaust units

encapsulation methods prior to removal

types, characteristics, uses and limitations of plant and equipment involved in removing asbestos

workplace and equipment safety requirements

application of the documentation for notification; and use of ARCP, clearance inspections, visual and air-monitoring processes and clearance certificates

use of certified WHS management system and emergency plan

Evidence Required

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

This unit of competency could be assessed in the workplace or a close simulation of the workplace environment, providing that simulated or project-based assessment techniques fully replicate workplace conditions, materials, activities, responsibilities and procedures.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

A person should demonstrate the ability to:

obtain and apply work instructions for the safe and correct removal of friable asbestos

set up the work area and test equipment for use in the removal process of friable asbestos

isolate the site prior to removal, complying with regulatory requirements

remove friable asbestos safely, complying with regulatory requirements

contain the asbestos containing material and ensure its handling and disposal are safe and comply with requirements

decontaminate self, work equipment and work site safely and correctly

complete documentation that supports the removal process within limits of own responsibility.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

This unit is to be assessed using standard and authorised work practices, safety requirements and environmental constraints.

Assessment of essential underpinning knowledge will usually be conducted in an off-site context.

Assessment is to comply with relevant regulatory or Australian standards’ requirements.

Resource implications for assessment include:

an induction procedure and requirement

realistic tasks or simulated tasks covering the mandatory task requirements

relevant specifications and work instructions

tools and equipment appropriate to applying safe work practices

support materials appropriate to activity

workplace instructions relating to safe work practices and addressing hazards and emergencies

research resources, including industry-related systems information

safety data sheets.

Reasonable adjustments for people with disabilities must be made to assessment processes where required. This could include access to modified equipment and other physical resources, and the provision of appropriate assessment support.

Method of assessment

Assessment methods must:

satisfy the endorsed Assessment Guidelines of the Construction, Plumbing and Services Training Package

include direct observation of tasks in real or simulated work conditions, with questioning to confirm the ability to consistently identify and correctly interpret the essential underpinning knowledge required for practical application

reinforce the integration of employability skills with workplace tasks and job roles

confirm that competency is verified and able to be transferred to other circumstances and environments.

Validity and sufficiency of evidence requires that:

competency will need to be demonstrated over a period of time reflecting the scope of the role and the practical requirements of the workplace

where the assessment is part of a structured learning experience the evidence collected must relate to a number of performances assessed at different points in time and separated by further learning and practice, with a decision on competency only taken at the point when the assessor has complete confidence in the person’s demonstrated ability and applied knowledge

all assessment that is part of a structured learning experience must include a combination of direct, indirect and supplementary evidence.

Assessment processes and techniques should as far as is practical take into account the language, literacy and numeracy capacity of the candidate in relation to the competency being assessed.

Supplementary evidence of competency may be obtained from relevant authenticated documentation from third parties, such as existing supervisors, team leaders or specialist training staff.


Range Statement

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Information to ensure the safe and correct completion of the job may include:

ARCP

licensed asbestos assessor’s report

asbestos register

company policies and procedures, including:

accessing toilets and other amenities

managing work hours to minimise risk from tiredness

working in heat and avoiding heat stress

operating manuals and specifications for materials and equipment

SWMS or JSA for construction as required

diagrams or sketches

instructions issued by authorised organisational or external personnel

manufacturer specifications and instructions, where specified

SDS

regulatory and legislative requirements for enclosing and removing asbestos

relevant Australian standards and codes

safe work procedures relating to enclosing and removing asbestos

memos, verbal and written instructions, and diagrams

work bulletins

work schedules, plans and specifications.

Safety procedures are to be according to state and territory legislation and regulations and project safety plan, and may include:

emergency procedures, including extinguishing fires and evacuation

handling activities that may require the assistance of others or the use of manual or mechanical lifting devices where size, weight or other issues, such as a disability, are a factor

hazard control

hazardous materials and substances

organisational first aid requirements

PPE prescribed under legislation, regulations and workplace policies and practices

safe operating procedures according to WHS management system, including the conduct of operational risk assessment and treatments associated with:

deactivating or securing utilities, including electrical, air conditioning and water services

earth leakage boxes

falling objects

lighting

plant movement

power cables, including overhead service trays, cables and conduits

restricted access barriers

surrounding structures

traffic control

trip hazards

work site visitors and the public

working at heights

working in confined spaces

working in proximity to others

use of firefighting equipment

use of tools and equipment

workplace environmental requirements and safety.

Materials may include:

acrylic paint to seal ACM

approved and branded or labelled plastic bags

duct tape

foam infill spray

gaffer tape

plastic sheeting

polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) adhesive as spray / spray tack glue

rags or other material wipes

heavy-duty polythene bags (200 μm minimum thickness)

200 μm unused (not recycled) plastic sheeting or drop sheet

signs

timber frames, nails, aluminium poles and other materials required for enclosures

glove bag material.

Quality requirements may include:

internal company quality policy and standards

manufacturer specifications

relevant regulations, including Australian standards

workplace operations and procedures.

Environmental requirements must fully reflect legislation and the Code of Practice for the Safe Removal of Asbestos, including:

clean-up management

dust and noise management

sedimentation control

vibration management

waste management, including the safe disposal of asbestos containing materials, including waste water from decontamination unit (DCU).

Preparation may include:

assessing conditions and hazards

determining work requirements, and safety plans and policies

identifying equipment defects

identifying, preparing for enclosing, and removing asbestos from a work site according to an ARCP work site inspection.

Plant and equipment may require separate licensing for use and may include:

high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuum cleaners to comply with AS3544-1988 and AS4260-1997 as amended from time to time

anchorage points for the enclosure

negative air pressure enclosures or bubbles

enclosure equipment

atomiser and water bottles (not pressurised)

barricades, including barricade tape, para-webbing, hoarding or fencing

bars (crow and pinch)

decontamination unit and remote decontamination unit

decontamination facilities

excavators

hammers

ladders to comply with construction regulations if required

hoses and spray fittings

flame retardant polythene

hardboard / corex

scaffolds

scrapers

shovels and spades

smoke-testing equipment

static lines.

Personal protective equipment will be specified to the requirements of the job andmay include:

protective clothing, such as:

disposable coveralls with fitted hood and cuffs

safety footwear (pull-on, not lace-up)

protective eye wear, such as safety glasses

full body safety harness

disposable protective gloves

correct respiratory protection class P3, full face respirators and airline respirators for negative air enclosures

correct face fitting and use of respiratory protective equipment (RPE)

spare sets of PPE.

Friable asbestos containing materials are easily crumbled or reduced to powder by hand, and may include:

asbestos backing on vinyl flooring

material in degraded condition that has rendered the material friable, including:

asbestos cement

asbestos cement moulded guttering

asbestos cement sheets

corrugated asbestos cement roofing sheets in degraded condition

asbestos in matrix of sprayed vermiculite

low density board

sprayed on fireproofing, soundproofing and thermal insulation

acoustic plaster soundproofing

thermal insulation

gaskets that have become friable

sealants that have become friable

pipe lagging

woven textiles, ropes, tapes and braids

decorative coatings.

Project sites may include:

residential, commercial, industrial and public buildings

plant, equipment and fire boards (e.g. friction plant and gaskets)

demolition sites

fences

ships and other forms of transport

sites for new building development.

Utilities may include:

air conditioning

electricity

water services.

Requirements to enclose the removal site:

will reflect the nature of the site and must comply with legislative and company requirements

may include the use of:

negative pressure exhaust units to prevent the escape of asbestos fibres from contained asbestos work areas

enclosures for large-scale asbestos removal work, including:

design and installation considerations

testing of enclosures

decontamination

mini-enclosures for small-scale asbestos removal work

glove bag and wrap and cut removal method

decontamination unit

waste water and filtration or handling unit.

Removal processes may include the following methods:

dry

wet

saturation.

Asbestos is removed from work site in a manner that complies with legislative and company requirements, and may include:

wet method, including:

saturate material by gently spraying with water and surfactant mixture (PVA in water ratio of 5:1)

remove materials in sections with the minimum amount of cutting and separation, using hand tools as appropriate

place removed sections in appropriate containers or packaging

Note: The application of the wet asbestos removal method requires the disconnection of the building’s power supply and use of a temporary power source fitted with earth leakage and residual current device (RCD)

dry method if required due to electrical safety issue

saturation method.

Safe work methods may include:

compliant set-up of the asbestos work area, including set-up of negative air, lighting, water and emergency supplies

placing adequate signage around friable asbestos work site

fire and emergency system requirements

enclosure of the asbestos removal area and the plant, equipment and fixtures remaining in the area

testing the asbestos enclosure in the work area

procedures for entering and leaving the enclosure in the asbestos work area

safe techniques for removing friable asbestos

packaging and removing contaminated plant, tools and equipment

cleaning and decontaminating tools, equipment and the asbestos work area

decontaminating and demobilising the asbestos work site

final decontamination of personnel

disposing of asbestos waste.

Asbestos iscontained and sealed before removing from the work area and work site using a range of techniques, including:

double-bagging

using heavy-duty polythene bags (200 μm minimum thickness) labelled with an appropriate warning

using drums or bins in good condition with well-fitting lids labelled with appropriate warning signs or labels

mini enclosures, such as glove bag and wrap and cut methods (suitable for friable ACM removal from small areas).

Notes:

For larger-scale disposal, the supplier of a waste removal bin must be informed of the usage to ensure appropriate and legal disposal.

If too large for a bin or bag, a skip or vehicle tray may be used provided it is double-lined with heavy-duty thick plastic sheeting. When ACMs are loaded on a truck tray the ACMs must be wetted down and then fully wrapped and sealed with a layer of 200 μm sheeting or bagged. Labelling must occur.

Decontamination of asbestos removal workers is carried out using:

‘buddy’ vacuuming

decontamination unit for large non-friable removals in certain circumstances

wet wiping.

Documentation may include:

ARCP

air-monitoring plans for control air monitoring

air-monitoring results

asbestos register

notification of asbestos removal work to the regulator

clearance certificates

knowledge of the procedures in the certified SMS

emergency plan development

equipment test certificates

health-monitoring program

RPE face fits

competency training certificates.


Sectors

Construction


Employability Skills

This unit contains employability skills.


Licensing Information

Occupational licenses are required nationally.

Work must be completed according to relevant legislative, industry, customer and organisational requirements, including work health and safety (WHS) policies and procedures.

Regulatory mechanisms apply to this unit. This unit is required for all ACM removal workers engaged in the removal of friable ACM. Candidates are advised to check for regulatory requirements.