Who is responsible for exposure monitoring in asbestos-related work?

The responsibility for exposure monitoring in asbestos-related work falls primarily to the competent person. This individual is specifically trained and qualified to identify hazards associated with asbestos and is knowledgeable about the necessary safety standards and regulations.

A competent person is required to have the ability to recognize potential asbestos exposure risks and to implement appropriate measures to mitigate these risks. This includes conducting air monitoring, assessing exposure levels, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols to protect workers and others in the vicinity.

In contrast, the project manager typically oversees the overall project but may not have specialized training in monitoring asbestos exposure specifically. The safety officer often focuses on general safety practices and may not be as specialized in asbestos-related issues as the competent person. The health inspector, while knowledgeable about health regulations, generally conducts inspections rather than directly managing exposure monitoring on-site. Therefore, the competent person's role is vital in ensuring that exposure monitoring is performed accurately and effectively, safeguarding the health of workers involved in asbestos-related operations.