15 October 2018

WorkSafe has granted an exemption from compliance with regulations 41(2)(a), 42(2), 46(6) and 57(1) of the Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016 commencing on 15 October 2018.

An exemption has been granted by WorkSafe in accordance with section 220 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 to Antarctica New Zealand because:

• Due to the remote nature of these huts, the asbestos removal workers will need to be flown in by helicopter to complete the removal. There is not enough seating in the helicopter for an independent person to complete the clearance inspections, air monitoring and clearance certificates as well, so they have suggested that the licensed supervisor – Matthew Ogier a Harcourts Insulation asbestos removalist- who is qualified to complete clearance certificates, clearance inspections and air monitoring, do this whilst in Antarctica.
• In this instance, the person undertaking the tasks of asbestos removal has received attestation they are fully competent to carry out monitoring and inspection to the required standard using the required methodology and equipment.
• The conditions associated with the exemption ensure it is not inconsistent with the principle that workers and other persons should be given the highest level of protection against harm to their health, safety, and welfare from hazards and risks arising from work or specific types of plant as is reasonably practicable. 

The exemption is granted subject to the following conditions:

• The exemption only applies to the removal of friable asbestos from Cape Roberts Hut, Cape Bird Hut and Cape Evans Hut and non-friable asbestos from Cosray Building over the period October 2018 – March 2019.
• The person undertaking the clearance testing is competent to undertake this task.