Asbestos has long been recognized as one of the most serious workplace and property-related hazards. Despite its ban in many countries, asbestos remains present in numerous older buildings, posing significant risks to workers, residents, and visitors. Managing this risk effectively requires not just awareness but also proactive measures — one of the most important being an asbestos audit.
In this article, we’ll explore the role of an asbestos audit in risk management, why it is essential, what the process involves, and how it protects both people and businesses from legal, financial, and health-related consequences.
Understanding Asbestos and Its Risks
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral once widely used in construction due to its fire resistance, durability, and insulation properties. Unfortunately, asbestos fibres can become airborne when disturbed and, once inhaled, cause serious health issues such as:
Asbestosis – a chronic lung condition.
Mesothelioma – an aggressive form of cancer.
Lung cancer – linked to long-term asbestos exposure.
Because of these risks, asbestos management is not optional — it is a legal and moral responsibility for property owners and employers.
What Is an Asbestos Audit?
An asbestos audit is a systematic inspection and assessment of a building to identify materials that contain asbestos (commonly referred to as ACMs – asbestos-containing materials). The audit helps determine:
Presence – whether asbestos is in the building.
Condition – if it is intact or deteriorating.
Location – where it is found within the property.
Risk level – the likelihood of fibre release.
The results of an asbestos audit form the foundation for an asbestos register and management plan, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.
The Role of Asbestos Audits in Risk Management
Risk management is about identifying potential hazards, assessing the likelihood of harm, and implementing strategies to minimise or eliminate risks. An asbestos audit plays a central role in this process by:
1. Identifying Hidden Risks
Many property owners are unaware of asbestos in their buildings, especially in structures built before the 1990s. An asbestos audit helps uncover hidden dangers that may otherwise remain unnoticed until renovations, demolitions, or maintenance work disturb the materials.
2. Assessing the Severity of Hazards
Not all asbestos poses the same level of risk. For example, asbestos cement sheeting may pose lower risks if intact, while friable asbestos (easily crumbled) can release dangerous fibres into the air. Audits help determine the severity of each material’s condition, enabling better risk prioritisation.
3. Supporting Legal Compliance
Workplace health and safety laws require property owners and employers to manage asbestos risks. In Australia, for example, compliance with Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations includes maintaining an asbestos register and conducting regular audits. Failure to comply can lead to heavy penalties, lawsuits, and reputational damage.
4. Protecting Employees, Contractors, and Visitors
The most important role of an asbestos audit is safeguarding people. Workers, maintenance teams, and even visitors may be unknowingly exposed to asbestos if risks are not identified and managed. A thorough audit ensures the right control measures are in place to keep everyone safe.
5. Informing Asbestos Management Plans
Risk management is not complete without a clear action plan. The findings of an asbestos audit are used to create or update an asbestos management plan, outlining how risks will be monitored, controlled, or eliminated.
6. Reducing Financial Risks
Unexpected asbestos discoveries during construction or demolition projects can cause costly delays and liabilities. By conducting an asbestos audit in advance, businesses avoid financial surprises and ensure smooth project planning.
Types of Asbestos Audits
Depending on the purpose and stage of a building’s lifecycle, different types of asbestos audits are conducted:
Asbestos Management Audit – Regular inspections to monitor ACMs in buildings that are occupied or operational.
Asbestos Refurbishment or Demolition Audit – Required before major construction, renovation, or demolition to ensure no asbestos materials are disturbed during works.
Asbestos Clearance Audit – Conducted after asbestos removal to confirm the area is safe for re-occupation.
Each type plays a vital role in risk management, ensuring asbestos is identified, managed, and safely removed when necessary.
Benefits of Conducting an Asbestos Audit
Beyond compliance, asbestos audits provide a range of benefits for property owners and businesses, including:
Peace of mind – knowing risks are identified and under control.
Improved safety culture – demonstrating a commitment to health and wellbeing.
Cost savings – preventing unexpected project delays and legal costs.
Reputation protection – avoiding negative publicity from safety breaches.
Long-term asset value – keeping buildings safe and legally compliant enhances their marketability.
Best Practices in Asbestos Risk Management
To maximise the effectiveness of an asbestos audit, businesses should follow these best practices:
Engage licensed professionals – only accredited asbestos assessors should conduct audits.
Keep records updated – maintain an up-to-date asbestos register and review it regularly.
Communicate risks – ensure workers, contractors, and visitors are aware of asbestos locations.
Act promptly – if damaged or high-risk asbestos is found, implement control or removal measures immediately.
Schedule regular reviews – asbestos management is ongoing, not a one-off task.
Conclusion
An asbestos audit is not just a legal requirement — it is a cornerstone of effective risk management. By identifying asbestos hazards, assessing their risks, and guiding safe management practices, audits protect people, businesses, and properties alike.
For employers, facility managers, and property owners, prioritising asbestos audits demonstrates a proactive approach to safety and compliance. Ultimately, investing in an asbestos audit is an investment in health, legal protection, and long-term peace of mind.
