Inspectors can carry out enforcement action against non-compliant businesses
Inspectors from Workplace Health and Safety Queensland will launch in August an audit to see if businesses have an asbestos register and management plan in place.
The audit, which will run until the end of October, will cover businesses operating from buildings constructed before 1990 and those likely containing asbestos.
"If your business premises was built before 1990, ensure you have an asbestos register and management plan in place," said Workplace Health and Safety Queensland in its announcement.
"Inspectors will address non-compliance with enforcement action, including issuing statutory notices and on-the-spot fines."
The upcoming audit is part of the government's National Strategic Plan for Asbestos Awareness and Management 2019-2023 and the Statewide Strategic Plan for the Safe Management of Asbestos in Queensland 2022-2025.
Last year, inspectors assessed 139 businesses, where they issued 103 improvement notices as well as 10 infringement notices.
The audits aim to eliminate asbestos-related diseases in Australia by reducing exposure to asbestos fibres.
"This requires the effective targeting of asbestos use and disposal, while addressing the harmful legacy of asbestos in homes, workplaces, and the environment," said Workplace Health and Safety Queensland.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fibre that was commonly used in the construction of homes and buildings.
Exposure to asbestos fibres, however, can cause life-threatening illnesses, leading the Australian government to ban it in 2003, according to the Asbestos and Silica Safety and Eradication Agency.
