Everything you need to know about working with asbestos: AFS 2006:1

Handling asbestos safely is essential to protect both workers and the public. The Swedish Work Environment Authority's regulations on asbestos (AFS 2006:1) contain the guidelines and rules that must be followed to ensure a safe working environment when working with asbestos. Here is an overview of these regulations and how they affect workplaces.

The purpose of the Regulations

The purpose of AFS 2006:1 is to prevent ill health due to the risk of exposure to asbestos-containing dust at work. The regulations apply to all activities that may involve such exposure, including construction work, maintenance and demolition.

Scope of application

The regulations cover all types of asbestos management:

• Processing and treatment: Interventions in asbestos or asbestos-containing material during maintenance or repair.
• Demolition: dismantling of buildings or technical equipment containing asbestos.
• Transportation and final disposal: Specific rules apply to the transportation of asbestos-containing waste.

Requirements for Authorization

Certain types of work with asbestos require a permit from the Swedish Work Environment Authority:

• Research and development: Handling asbestos for these purposes requires a permit.
• Processing and handling: Permit required for work involving exposure to asbestos-containing dust.
• Demolition: The demolition of buildings or equipment containing more than 1% asbestos by weight requires a permit.

Education and Skills

Everyone who manages and carries out work with asbestos must undergo training. The training should cover the properties of asbestos, health effects, protective measures, emergency measures and the use of personal protective equipment. This training must be updated regularly.

Risk assessment and handling instructions

Before starting any work that may involve exposure to asbestos-containing dust, a thorough risk assessment must be carried out. Written handling and protection instructions should be available at the workplace and ensure that the work can be carried out safely.

Prevention of dust dispersion

Work with asbestos must be planned and carried out in such a way as to minimize exposure to asbestos-containing dust. Places where asbestos work is carried out should be clearly demarcated and clearly marked to prevent unauthorized access.

Medical checks

The employer must organize medical checks for workers exposed to asbestos-containing dust. These checks should include assessment for fitness for work certificates and be carried out regularly to detect any health problems early.

Executive summary

The Swedish Work Environment Authority's regulations on asbestos (AFS 2006:1) are crucial to protect workers from the dangers that asbestos can bring. By following these rules and ensuring that all workers are properly trained and protected, employers can contribute to a safer working environment.

Do you need training to handle asbestos? We offer a basic general online training course covering all aspects of asbestos management. Visit our training page for more information and to sign up today. More information on asbestos can also be found on the Swedish Work Environment Authority website.