MoD Health & Safety Handbook 

JSP 375 Vol 2 

17  Do not assume that removing existing items will be straightforward, however.  If there is any 

likelihood that an asbestos containing item being replaced is in poor condition, or if there is any 

likelihood of even minor force being required to remove it, a written assessment is required. 

18  Assessments, taking due account of, amongst other things, all of the following factors, must be 

undertaken by a competent person. 

18.1 

Environmental issues such as the potential for land contamination. 

18.2 

The type of work and its expected duration. 

18.3 

The scope for using substitute materials or processes that reduce the risks, or, where the 

intention is to continue using asbestos the justification for so doing (noting the requirements of the 

Asbestos (Prohibitions) Regulations   Leaflet 40). 

18.4 

Type and quantity of asbestos. 

18.5 

The potential exposures, for which competent specialist advice is likely to be required. 

NOTE 

When considering potential exposures, the following points should also be taken into 

account and actioned as necessary. 

18.5.1 

If it is expected that exposures are likely to exceed an Action Level, the 

Regulations on notification of the work, on designated areas and on medical surveillance 

must also apply in full.  That fact, and the number of people likely to be affected should be 

recorded in the assessment. 

18.5.2 

If it is expected that exposures are likely to exceed a Control Limit, respiratory 

protective equipment (RPE) will also be required.  That fact, the choice of RPE and the 

number of people likely to be affected must recorded. 

18.5.3 

Will expected exposures be intermittent?  If yes, the frequency and duration of 

the exposures must be assessed and recorded. 

18.5.4 

Will anyone other than employees be exposed?  If yes, they should be 

considered as part of the full assessment. 

18.5.5 

Are there air monitoring results already available from similar work?  In which 

case use them to aid the assessment. 

18.6 

The steps needed to reduce exposure to the lowest level reasonably practicable and to 

prevent or control the release of asbestos to the environment. 

18.7 

The procedures for the provision and use of respiratory protective equipment and any 

other personal protective equipment that are required. 

18.8 

For demolition, the scope, where reasonably practicable for removing asbestos materials 

from structures before demolition begins. 

18.9 Emergency 

procedures. 

18.10  Procedures for removing waste from the workplace, that comply with the Special Waste 

Regulations. 

Leaflet 5 Annex A 

April 2003 

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