Media coverage about asbestos-related illnesses has increased public knowledge of the risks associated with asbestos. Asbestos has been found to cause asbestosis, cancer (both lung cancer and mesothelioma) and pleural (lung) disease.

Electrical and construction workers can be at risk of exposure to bonded asbestos. Employers have a responsibility under national and state legislation to provide training that minimises the impact of this on their employees’ health. TAFE NSW – Western Sydney Institute Senior Training Consultant Helen McFadden emphasised that training is mandatory for anyone working with bonded asbestos sheeting, including workers in the electrical and construction industries.

Construction and electrical workers need to be trained in asbestos safety issues

‘This TAFE PLUS program makes employees aware of safe work practices when working on or near bonded asbestos,’ she said. ‘It also trains them in the safe disposal of bonded asbestos waste products. We’ve provided this course to local government organisations, the Roads and Traffic Authority and Rail Infrastructure, with great outcomes for these employees.

‘Most electrical cupboards and switchboards installed before 1988 contain bonded asbestos products such as cement sheet products, millboard and mounting boards. These older electrical cupboards are fairly common and employers have a responsibility to make sure electrical workers are aware of risks and the precautions that should be taken.’

In addition to the ‘Awareness’ course for electrical workers, Western Sydney Institute provides a program for construction workers on ‘Bonded Asbestos Sheet Removal’.

Blacktown Council’s Engineering Support Services Officer, David Harris, said he originally chose the Institute to provide bonded asbestos training because some Council employees needed to increase their awareness. Mr Harris discovered that the Western Sydney Institute course was not only the most cost effective, but that TAFE NSW trainers were also willing to provide training in a location suitable for the employees.

‘The training was provided in a flexible way that was adapted to suit our requirements,’ he said. ‘I have received comments from participants that the course was well presented with good information. Participants learnt things that they didn’t already know. We were really pleased with the training.’

Following the success of this Bonded Asbestos TAFE PLUS program, more Council employees will undertake the training. A range of TAFE PLUS courses on asbestos-related topics is available and has benefited many organisations including Rail Infrastructure and the Roads and Traffic Authority NSW.