Title Page

  • Document No.

  • Audit Site Address

  • Location
  • Conducted on

  • Auditor Name

  • Supervisor Name

1. PRELIMINARY REQUIREMENTS

  • 1.1 Is the a valid (I.e. In date) ASB5 Notification Form on site for the works to be audited?

  • GUIDANCE: There must be an ASB5 specifically for the works being audited. Any related correspondence (e.g. Email to HSE to amend dates) should also be on site.

  • 1.2 Is there (or will there be) asbestos removal work or cleaning in progress within the enclosure during the audit?

  • GUIDANCE: The audit must include observations of removal or cleaning work in progress within the enclosure. Depending on break times it may be necessary to make your observations (section 9) out of sequence with the order set out in the audit form. The order is only a guide, and the auditor is at liberty to change the order to suit local situations or the individual auditor's preference. Just ensure that all of the items are answered.

  • 1.3 Is there provision to observe work practices within the enclosure by means of cctv and/or viewing panels?

  • GUIDANCE: In relation to the above requirement, there must therefore be a viewing panel, there must be cctv, and needs to be working so that observations can be made.

  • 1.4 Is there a site specific Plan Of Work available on site for the works?

  • GUIDANCE: A site specific Plan Of Work must be available on site for inspection. If the situation arises where a number if identical properties are being worked on (e.g. high rise flats), it would be unreasonable to expect individual Plans Of Work for each property, when each would be the same. Nevertheless, there should still be some reference to the address of the property being audited.

  • 1.5 Is there a copy of the Company Standard Procedures available on site?

  • GUDANCE: These should be readily available on site.

  • 1.6 Is the Decontamination Unit fully functional in terms of power, ventilation, and the provision of hot and cold running water for showering?

  • The DCU should be fully functional prior to operatives entering the enclosure. If the essentials such as working NPU, and heated water for showers are not in place, then the supervisor needs to be taking charge of the situation as a priority.

2. ASB5 NOTIFICATION FORM

  • What form of asbestos containing material does the ASB5 state being worked upon?

  • GUIDANCE: refer to the ASB5 for this information. Write which type of asbestos material(s) is/ are being worked on.

  • What is the approximate extent of the works stated on the ASB5?

  • GUIDANCE: this information should be on ASB5, and refers to the area or volume of asbestos containing material to be removed. Be aware that on the current ASB5 form, this is under the heading "Size of job (area or volume)" which refers to the asbestos to be removed, not the size of the enclosure as some contractors are recording.

  • What is the maximum number of employees per shift stated on the ASB5?

  • How many operatives (including the supervisor) are on the site?

  • GUIDANCE: Check the site diary to determine how man operatives (including the supervisor) are on site, and record the number here. Should any contracts manager or similar turn up on site for a routine visit or meet the auditor, then do not count this person in your figure.

3. SITE DOCUMENTATION

  • Is the Contract Supervisor the same person as specified in the Plan Of Work?

  • GUIDANCE: In the site specific Plan Of Work there must be a named individual who is responsible for the conduct of the site, whatever title he is known by. This is the person who answers your questions and shows you around the paperwork and the site, and must be trained to supervisor level. If he is not there, then that constitutes inadequate supervision. Changing the supervisor's name while you are there is not good enough. TBC is not acceptable, unless there is a handwritten amendment to it.
    Check of id that the supervisor is who he says he is, and that he has evidence of current supervisory training.

  • Does the Plan Of Work detail whom RIS Ltd are contracted to?

  • GUIDANCE: Detail should include name, address and telephone number of the client as a minimum.

  • Does the Plan Of Work detail when the work is to be carried out? (Including start/finish times and weekend variations).

  • GUIDANCE: The Plan Of Work should make it quite clear as whether or not weekends are to be worked (and whether all weekend, part weekend etc.), as well as detailing start and finish dates and times.
    However, if it is a 1-day job, don't insist on weekend variations!
    This information should also be on the ASB5. Make sure that the two pieces of information are consistent.
    Even though this information would be included on the ASB5, it should be contained within the Plan Of Work, and this is what the audit question is asking.

  • Does the Plan Of Work detail the analytical company providing the 4 stage clearance?

  • GUIDANCE: This should be clearly stated in the Plan Of Work. TBA without a hand written amendment is not sufficient. The Plan Of Work does not need to state the individual analyst's name, but the company name.

  • Does the Plan Of Work detail who the analytical company is contracted to?

  • GUIDANCE: There should be a clear statement as to whether the analytical company is contracted to the client or to RIS Ltd. Just stating the analyst is independent does not show who they are contracted to.

  • Does the Plan Of Work detail the type of asbestos involved? (I.e. Amosite, chrysotile, crocidolite)

  • GUIDANCE: Hopefully self-explanatory.
    "AIB", or "mill board" for example, are not sufficient.
    "Presumed amosite", for example, while not ideal, would be sufficient.
    Even though this information would be included on the ASB5, the audit requires it to be in the Plan Of Work.

  • Does the Plan Of Work detail the condition of the asbestos containing material to be removed? (E.g. Good, fair or poor)

  • GUIDANCE: Hopefully self-explanatory.
    God, fair,poor or any similar description would be acceptable. "Debris" would be acceptable as it is difficult to conceive it as anything other than poor. "Various" or "unknown" are insufficient.

  • Does the Plan Of Work (or standard procedures) detail who is authorised to amend the plan of work?

  • GUIDANCE: Just having a space to write amendments is not good enough. There needs to be a statement as to who can make amendments and to what extent. The authorised person may be referred to by name or job title e.g. Site supervisor. It is acceptable if this is in the standard procedures documents, which should be on site.

  • Are welfare facilities detailed in the plan of work AND are they available for use as described?

  • GUIDANCE: Whatever the job, there should be some basic welfare provision, e.g. Toilets, place to eat/take a break etc. If the Plan Of Work states it will be there, it should be there. If the Plan Of Work is silent on the issue, then this is inadequate.

  • Does the Plan Of Work (or standard procedures) detail decontamination entry AND exit procedures?

  • GUIDANCE: The procedure should be clearly stated within the POW. Though the POW may refer to an SOP for more detail. The SOP should be available on site. The procedure should have both entry AND exit procedures.
    Check that the procedure in the site documentation matches the site setup, e.g. Transit procedures or direct connection DCU. if the site setup differs from the POW, then record this.

  • Does the Plan Of Work (or standard procedures) detail the type of respirators to be used?

  • GUIDANCE: Generic details of respirator types and specifications are acceptable I.e. They do not have to detail exact makes and models. please note that "full-face positive pressure" is inaccurate, and should state "full-face power assisted".

  • Does the Plan Of Work (or standard procedures) detail the construction method for enclosures AND airlocks?

  • GUIDANCE: the details should include the construction of both enclosures AND airlocks. The details may be generic and are often continued in the SOPs, but nethertheless should still be on site. As a minimum, details should include 1000 gauge polythene, supporting framework and other materials used, airlock dimensions and vision panels.

  • Does the Plan Of Work (or standard procedures) detail the arrangements for smoke testing AND witnessing?

  • GUIDANCE: Both parts should be answered- the smoke test arrangements AND the arrangements for witnessing of the test. Just having space to record the details is not sufficient - there should be a statement in the POW or on the record form detailing the arrangements in place.

  • If a smoke test is to be carried out, please record name/title of proposed witness

  • GUIDANCE: Record the name of title of the proposed witness. This will be useful later on in the audit to cross check.

  • Does the Plan Of Work detail the asbestos removal technique to be used?

  • GUIDANCE: The removal technique should be clearly stated in the POW., though the POW may refer to a SOP for more detail. In such cases, the SOP should be available on site. The actual technique being used will be assessed against the stated technique in the POW.

  • Does the Plan Of Work (or standard procedures) detail the air monitoring arrangements for the duration of the works?

  • GUIDANCE: whether it is just clearance testing that will be carried out, or whether other monitoring is to be conducted, it should be detailed in the POW. it is outside the scope of the audit to determine whether the air monitoring arrangements other than the 4-stage clearance are sufficient for the job, or whether any proposed air monitoring has yet been carried out.

  • Is the scope of works adequately described in the plan of work, and does it match the details recorded on the ASB5?

  • GUIDANCE: Absolutely vital. a certificate of reoccupation cannot be generated without this information. Does the described scope match what you see? Is the analyst going to be asked to clear 10 sq m of AIB when in fact 100 sq m of sprat coating has been stripped?

  • Is there a site specific risk assessment available for inspection, for hazards other than asbestos? (Hot work, work at heights, use of hand tools, confined spaces, electricity, manual handling etc)

  • GUIDANCE: this is a very serious issue. Risk assessments should address all significant risks, not just risks from asbestos.
    A risk assessment should conclude that risks from named hazards are either sufficiently controlled or will be on implementation of further specified control measures. merely listing some of the hazards or risks is not acceptable. The risks from a suitable range of non-asbestos hazards should be sufficiently assessed, and the range should reflect general site conditions.
    The risk assessments should be site specific I.e. Should relate to the actual job being undertaken, whereas generic assessments are unacceptable.
    Though not ideal, it may be just about acceptable for the POW to refer specifically to certain generic risk assessments selected as relevant to the job., though ideally this should be supplemented by a site specific assessment, even if this doesn't actually highlight any additional risks.

  • is there a set of COSHH assessments on site? (Smoke Fluid, Foam, Spray Adhesive etc) NB Material Safety data Sheets on their own are insufficient.

  • GUIDANCE: As with risk assessments these should be on site. They should be in a format that addresses the situations in which the substances are being used, and the subsequent controls to be implemented to reduce the risks to health. they should be in a format that the target audience (supervisors and I operatives) can understand. if just the Material safety Data Sheets are presented to you as a COSHH Assessment, then this is unacceptable. the information contained within the data sheets should be used to make an assessment of the actual risks to health from the substances in use by the contractors.

  • Is there a copy of the RIS Ltd current valid asbestos licence available for inspection?

  • GUIDANCE: a copy of the contractors licence and that of any other supervisory licence holder having anything to do with the job should be on site. Display does not matter , as long as it is there. check for licence conditions, and that they are being adhered to.

  • Is there documented evidence on site confirming current insurance cover for both employer's liability AND public liability e.g. Insurance schedule.

  • GUIDANCE: note that two types of insurance are called for here, and you need to see evidence of both. Usually these are both recorded on a single schedule. A certificate of insurance is likely to only show employers liability.
    a 2to whom it may concern" letter would be acceptable, providing it is current.

  • Are daily site and plant inspection records (including DCU, enclosure, airlocks, NPU's & vacuum cleaners) available for inspection and up to date?

  • GUIDANCE: formats for this will vary considerably. Many are only tick boxes. whatever they are they should be up to date. for example, there should be something recorded for the day of the audit by the time you get there. Check back several days as an indication that record keeping is a regular practice. Filling it in to get it up to date while you are there is unacceptable. some format where there is an opportunity and encouragement for narrative is to be encouraged. the documentation should include those items listed below as a minimum.

  • Does the NPU inspection record include manometer/pressure gauge readings for each NPU in use (including DCU)?

  • GUIDANCE: Checks should be made and recorded at the beginning of each shift. if the NPU does not have a pressure gauge, make a note of this. check records for all NPUs in use, which will include the NPU in the DCU.

  • Has the smoke test record for the enclosure been completed AND do the witness details match those stated in the plan of work?

  • GUIDANCE: The smoke test should be recorded, to include date, time an details of who carried out and who witnessed it. If there is no record, consider it not done.
    The witness should be the person/designation as stated in the POW. if not, make a note of what the discrepancy is and any other information that may be relevant.

4. SITE SUPERVISOR AND/OR OPERATIVES

  • Supervisor/Operative Name:

  • In enclosure?

  • Current Medical Certificate?

  • Evidence of Competence? Either RSPH Competence Certificate no more than 12 months old OR current Training Certificate OR evidence through Training Needs Analysis

  • Face Fit Test Certificate for RPE in use? (Daily if in enclosure, current monthly if not)

  • Examination Record for RPE in use? (Daily if in enclosure, current monthly if not)

  • Adequate response when questioned regarding Emergency Procedures? (If not in enclosure)

  • Supervisor/Operative(s) Clean Shaven? (If out of the enclosure, or if seen before entry)

  • Operative Name:

  • In enclosure?

  • Current Medical Certificate?

  • Evidence of Competence? Either RSPH Competence Certificate no more than 12 months old OR current Training Certificate OR evidence through Training Needs Analysis

  • Face Fit Test Certificate for RPE in use? (Daily if in enclosure, current monthly if not)

  • Examination Record for RPE in use? (Daily if in enclosure, current monthly if not)

  • Adequate response when questioned regarding Emergency Procedures? (If not in enclosure)

  • Supervisor/Operative(s) Clean Shaven? (If out of the enclosure, or if seen before entry)

  • For certificates above which have not been booked by RIS Ltd or is not recorded by the course provider, has each certificate been authenticated by, or under the direction of senior management, with a statement confirming their validity?

5. SITE ORGANISATION

  • Does the Sketch Plan included with the plan of work match the site set up, and include the positions of the NPU, airlock, bag lock (if applicable), viewing panels/cctv and DCU as a minimum?

  • GUIDANCE: Absolutely essential. Provide every detail of what is wrong with it. there should be an accurate sketch plan which should include the transit route and waste route, as well as the details regarding the enclosure, airlocks, NPUs, DCU , viewing panels etc. Amendment on site is perfectly acceptable. It is important that the drawing matches what you see. locations of vacuum cleaners are not required.
    any change made retrospectively while you are on site is not acceptable.
    Do not be too particular about the scale/proportions of the drawing, providing it is within reason. It is a 'sketch' plan.

  • Do viewing panels and/or cctv show all areas so far as is reasonably practicable?

  • GUIDANCE: The audit must include observations of work practices within the enclosure. if sufficient viewing panels cannot be provided to show all areas of the enclosure, then CCTV must be installed so that all areas and work activities can be observed. if it is not straightforward, please explain exactly what the situation is. If CCTV (as set up) does not show all areas, ensure that the cameras can be moved /repositioned to show all areas as and when would be required. If CCTV is in place, but there is no reception or picture on the screen, then it is not fit for purpose and effectively not in place.

  • Is each viewing panel (where applicable) at least 600 x 300mm?

  • GUIDANCE: Panels should be at least 660 x 300mm. Excessive tape should not unnecessarily restrict the viewing area. Note approximate if less than 600 x 300mm. We don't need to be pedantic about a few millimetres. Bubble viewing panels may appear smaller, through the actual area of the curved surface may well equate to the correct dimensions.

  • Are there adequate warning signs which comply with the Safety Signs and Signals Regulations? (Including the black hand prohibition symbol)

  • GUIDANCE: In accordance with the 1996 safety Signs and Signals Regulations , there needs to be the prohibition sign with the black hand, as well as the mandatory signs for wearing overalls and RPE. Signs should be postponed on all exposed faces of the enclosure, include the airlocks.

  • Is there a suitably stocked First Aid Kit available on site?

  • GUIDANCE: Obvious and straightforward. NB working on a hospital is not an excuse for not having one. if they do not have one on site, they will probably not have one on the next job either. Plasters are the most commonly used item and therefore most often out of stock.

6. PLANT ON SITE/CERTIFICATION

  • Are there at least 2 H-type vacuum cleaners on site?

  • GUIDANCE: Primarily for primary decontamination, if the procedures state for enclosure exit include a vacuum in the airlock- it better be there! They don't have to be both in the enclosure - it depends what the POW states and the sketch plan says. Small enclosures there might not be enough room. It may be acceptable for the spare to be in the van as long as the van is there!

  • Are current DOP test certificates (or copies) available and relevant to each vacuum on site?

  • GUIDANCE: Get the operative to bring the vac to the viewing panel for inspection if the certificate is on the vac. Alternatively get the operative to read out the serial numbers, then check the paperwork later. Do your best record what you did.

  • Does the number and capacity of the NPU's in use correspond with that stated in the plan of work?

  • GUIDANCE: The site setup should match the POW. If the POW is wrong or the enclosure size has been modified and the number and/or capacity of the NPUs needs to be amended, the supervisor should be both authorised and trained to make amendments. including recalculation if required. Hand-written amended plenty are acceptable. Note this item refers to both the number and capacity of NPUs.

  • Are current DOP test certificates (or copies) available and relevant to each NPU on site?

  • GUIDANCE: Ideally the certificate is in the site file and matched the number on the unit. A current certificate on the machine is acceptable, providing it is readable. When the NPU is not accessible, this can be a problem. In this case, check the site diary for a serial number and check for a certificate. Do you best to record what you did.

  • Is there a current DOP test certificate (or copy) available on site for the NPU within the dirty end of the DCU?

  • GUIDANCE: Access to the DCU DOP test certificate is sometimes a problem. ideally it is in the site file or in the clean end and matches the DCU serial number. if it is on the machine DO NOT go into the dirty end of the DCU to inspect. Brand new is not an excuse - the filtration has still been tested before use. hired unit- again no excuse - if it did not come with a test certificate, they shouldn't of accepted it.

7. Enclosure/Airlock

  • Is the enclosure in sound condition and constructed so as to prevent the spread of asbetos?

  • GUIDANCE: Hopefully obvious. Check edges of enclosure, seals, joints etc. Tell the supervisor and make a note of any breaches in the enclosure.

  • Is the airlock free from visible asbestos debris?

  • GUIDANCE: do not enter the or lock to do this. Push open the outer flap. use a stick or similar to push the next flap. Use the viewing panel to the inner stage for an additional view.
    With a direct connection, there are often limitations as to how much can be assessed for visible debris. Make a judgement on what you can see and record what you have done.

  • Is a bucket and sponge (or similar) available for decontamination of respirator?

  • GUIDANCE: In general there is provision for primary decontamination- as far as you can see without going in? Does the bucket have water in it? Spray water bottle and disposable towel or similar would be acceptable. if the provision is not fully visible through the viewing panel, ask an operative within the enclosure to show you the relevant items through the viewing panel.

  • Are the airlock openings either oval or rectangular in shape?

  • GUIDANCE: "I" slits are not acceptable, as they prevent proper closure of the flaps and generally restrict inflowing air, casting doubt on whether the calculated / required air changes are being achieved. similarly with inverted "T" slits.

  • Do the flaps cover the airlock openings adequately?

  • GUIDANCE: The bottom of the flaps should extend below the openings, and the sides of the flaps overlap the openings. If cables or ducting run through the airlock openings, then this is not acceptable.

  • Are all of the airlock flaps weighted?

  • GUIDANCE: all flaps must be weighted. You should be able to see the most inner flaps through the viewing panel on the inner stage of the airlock.

  • Is each stage of the airlock at least 1m x 1m x 2m (height)?

  • GUIDANCE: Please give appropriate sizes if they have less than 1m x 1m x 2m. Sometimes with the best will in the world there just is not room, but this should be justified in the POW.

  • If NO to the above question, was this variation justified in the plan of work?

  • GUIDANCE: Record whether or not the smaller airlock was justified in the POW.

  • Does the inner stage of the airlock have a viewing panel at least 600mm x 300mm?

  • GUIDANCE: Panel see should be at least 600 x 300mm. Excessive tape should not unnecessarily restrict the viewing area. Note approximate size if it is less than 660 x 300mm. we don't need to pedantic about a few millimetres.

  • If NO to the above question, please indicate why not.

  • GUIDANCE: Please give a reason why there was no viewing panel, or just state 'no reason'

8. AIR EXTRACTION EQUIPMENT

  • Is the extract sited in relation to ideal air management?

  • GUIDANCE: Hopefully self-explanatory. If the extract is not sited in relation to ideal air management, please give details.

  • Is the extract capable of providing EITHER a minimum of 8 air changes per hour (enclosures >120m3) OR airflow of at least 1000m3 per hour for smaller enclosures?

  • GUIDANCE: This should be demonstrated by calculation, and backed up by observation of airflow through the airlock. Do a rough check on the enclosure dimensions and NPU calculation. The calculation should be based on the current performance of the extraction equipment (eg from the current DOP test certificate) not the original design specification.

  • Is the extract vented to outside atmosphere where practical?

  • GUIDANCE: Without going into extreme measures to achieve it- if it is not done, could it be reasonably have been?

  • Does each NPU have a non-return flap on the exhaust side of the HEPA filter?

  • GUIDANCE: Obviously this can only be checked if there is safe access to do so, and if there is no ducting attached. if applicable, make a note of the extent to which you were able to check this item.

9. OBSERVED WORK PRACTICES

  • Is the pre-filter (or roving head) the only part of the NPU exposed to the working area? (I.e. NPU sheeted out if inside enclosure)

  • GUIDANCE: Normally the NPU would be located outside the enclosure with just the pre filter exposed to the working area. If for whatever reason the NPU is situated with the enclosure, then all but the pre filter should be sheeted out/ excluded from the work area. If you cannot see the NPU, please give some more details.
    In addition, the NPU should be attached to the enclosure in such a way that the pre filter can be readily changed, and that the pre filter can be readily capped (i.e. Cover plate clipped onto front of the unit) prior to clearance monitoring.

  • Does the RPE (including filter) being used match that stated in plan of work?

  • GUIDANCE: Should be self explanatory. make a note of anything that differs from the details presented in the POW.

  • Are all components of full face RPE uniquely identifiable? (E.g. Mask, blower and battery identified/marked/tagged with name or item/serial number)

  • GUIDANCE: A respirator needs a service record. it cannot have a complete service record unless all parts are identifiable. Take time to listen to what is being said as some companies do manage this by recording the serial numbers of the parts. each component does not necessarily have to have the same number, name or initials etc. there is no need to apply the audit question to half masks.

  • Are colours of coveralls as stated in the plan of work or standard procedures?

  • GUIDANCE: This should be straightforward "yes" or "no". If no colours are stated in the POW or SOPs, then this is also a "no" response.

  • Are disposable working coveralls AND transit coveralls 'category 3, type 5/6'?

  • GUIDANCE: Coveralls should be type 5/6 for working and transiting coveralls. Check at least one of each for labelling inside the coverall or on the packaging, don't just go by what might be written on a box.

  • Are all items of necessary PPE being properly worn? (E.g. Coveralls not tucked into boots, coverall hood over headstraps etc)

  • GUIDANCE: Please record your observations. let us know what is going on inside the enclosure.

  • Does the dust suppression method being used match that stated in the plan of work?

  • GUIDANCE: This often varies. The person writing the POW sometimes has grand ideas. the person on site has to deliver the product. if it has changed, has the POW been changed to match? You are comparing the method used to the POW.

  • Is the dust suppression method suitable for the type of work or material? (If needle injection machine being used, please state manufacturer)

  • GUIDANCE: This is where you can comment on the suitability of the dust suppression method being used. In most case it will be suitable. However, spraying where injection should be used, or single point gun where multi-needle injection is indicated are typical examples of unsuitable choices.
    Use of PVA as a dust suppressant during stripping is not acceptable.

  • Does the asbestos removal technique being used match that stated in the plan of work?

  • GUIDANCE: Is the work being done as stated in the POW?
    If not, please provide details of what you observe.
    Sometime it is only possible to observe parts of the overall technique, depending on the stage the works are at,. make a judgement based on the portion of the technique observed in relation to the stage of works being carried out.

  • Has the waste been appropriately bagged? (E.g. Immediately and single bagged if still in enclosure)

  • GUIDANCE: this will hopefully confirm that the proper housekeeping and waste procedures are being observed. again if there is anything inappropriate going on, please provide details of what you observed. if a job is nearing an end and all the waste has been removed from the enclosure , then record this.

10. HYGIENE FACILITY

  • Is the unit positioned in relation to the work area as stated within the plan of work?

  • GUIDANCE: Is it arranged as described in the Plan Of Work? If not, please give details in the comments section. Please indicate whether there is a direct connection or whether a transit procedure is in place.

  • If the unit is not directly connected to the enclosure, would it have been reasonably practicable to do so?

  • GUIDANCE: Units should be connected directly to enclosures where reasonably practicable to do so. if a transit procedure has been adopted, please indicate whether you consider the unit should have been directly connected.

  • is the transit route as short as possible and away from occupied areas?

  • GUIDANCE: Is the best possible arrangement in place? Bear in mind access difficulties, other users of the site, emergency access arrangements etc.

  • Is the unit fully functional/in working order? 9heating, lighting, water filter, drains etc.)

  • GUIDANCE: Some of the checks considered essential were made at the commencement of the audit.
    This part of the audit checks other items regarding functionality of the DCU. water leaks etc. Are not acceptable. Filtered waste water should ideally be piped to foul sewer, but acceptable to storm water drainage if a foul sewer is not nearby. Waste water, even filtered, should not run onto open ground, but be collected in containers and taken to a drain for emptying. Check that the filter units are connected. Note anything that is absent or not functioning.

  • Are the internal doors and external door to the dirty end all fully self-closing?

  • GUIDANCE: Do not go into shower section or dirty end to check these. Sometimes these can be observed from 'clean' areas, sometimes it is possible to push open the shower to dirty end door with a piece of timber or a mop handle. Do the best you can and record what you

  • Is there an adequate number of shower heads for operatives? (I.e. At least one for every 4 operatives)

  • GUIDANCE: They have to work, of course. Make a note if there are not enough working showerheads.

  • Is there a nail rush provided in the shower area?

  • GUIDANCE: These can be observed from the clean end without having to step into shower section.

  • Is the unit in good condition and clean so far as is reasonably practicable?

  • GUIDANCE: No compromise here - we are talking clean and in good condition. however, it may be old, but it should still be clean and in good condition.

  • Are towels provided?

  • GUIDANCE: All towels should be provided by the employer - own towels are not accpetable

  • Are the clean end and dirty end doors marked (including prohibited entry and mandatory PPE signage, where required)?

  • GUIDANCE: The dirty end door should obviously be marked 'dirty', but should also include a sign to prohibit unauthorised entry as well as the mandatory (blue and white) PPE signage for overalls and respirators.
    The clean end door should be marked 'clean' and as a minimum include the sign to prohibit unauthorised entry. if the clean end door does not display the mandatory PPE signage, then this should be displayed on the clean end shower internal door.

  • Is there a clearance test certificate, from the previous job, for the dirty and shower compartments of the hygiene unit?

  • GUIDANCE: The most important thing here is that it has been done. if the analyst has not done a proper job then it may be unfair to heavily penalise the supervisor. A hired unit without a certificate is no excuse - it should not have been accepted.

  • Date of DCU clearance test

  • GUIDANCE: Please record the date of the last clearance test on the DCU.

11. WASTE

  • Are the waste disposal arrangements as described in the plan of work?

  • GUIDANCE: Do the arrangements match those described in the POW? if not, please make comments on how they differ. If no waste has been removed from the enclosure prior the audit, is there evidence to suggest that the arrangements described in the POW will be followed., e.g. Skip on site, or van with segregated waste facility and consignment note? The POW should state how the waste will be removed from the site, who by, and where it will be deposited. if it is going to a waste transfer station, this should be named in the POW, but it is not necessary to provide details of its onward journey to its final destination.

  • Is the waste transit route free from residual or split waste?

  • GUIDANCE: Hopefully self explanatory. This is no more than a visual check, but necessary.

  • Where applicable, is there sufficient means to segregate waste from equipment/supplies within the company vehicle?

  • GUIDANCE: This item applies whenever waste is being, or intended to be, transported in a company van. there must be some robust means of segregating the waste from other parts of the van, namely the cab and other storage areas for equipment, supplies etc. merely wrapping the waste in polythene, or keeping it at one end of the van is not sufficient. some companies utilise a lidded storage bin anchored to the wall of the van, which is acceptable.

  • Has a separate bag lock been provided?

  • GUIDANCE: A separate bag lock should be used where space allows. Either there is one or there isn't.

  • If NO to the above question, was this justified in the Plan Of Work? (N.B. "Small amount of waste" is not a valid justification)

  • GUIDANCE: If there is no bag lock, the justification for this should be given in the Plan Of Work. Lack of space is often a valid justification. Small amount of waste is not a valid justification.

  • Is each stage of the bag lock at least 1m x 1m x 2m (height) ?

  • GUIDANCE: Please give approximate sizes if they are less than 1m x 1m x 2m.
    Sometimes with the best will in the world there just is not room.

  • If NO to the above question was this a variation justified in the plan of work?

  • GUIDANCE: Record whether or not the smaller bag lock was justified in the Plan Of Work.

  • is the bag lock free from visible asbestos debris?

  • GUIDANCE: Do not enter the bag lock to do this. Push open the outer flap if it is not sealed. Use a stick or similar to push the next flap. Use the viewing panel to the inner stage for an additional view. It is often the case that the bag lock is closed off to allow maximum air flow through the airlock. Should there be an issue with debris, state the situation and what you were able to observe.

  • Does the inner stage of the bag lock have a viewing panel at least 600 x 300mm?

  • GUIDANCE: Panel size should be at least 660 x 300mm. Excessive tape should not unnecessarily restrict the viewing area. Note approximate size if it is less than 600 x 300mm. Don't be pedantic about a few millimetres.

12. MISCELLANEOUS

  • Are RIS Ltd vans reasonably tidy and with minimal risk of the spread of asbestos?

  • GUIDANCE: Not looking for perfection, but for a standard that isn't prejudicial to health. We are looking for waste segregation, equipment not piled up so to cause damage, no debris etc.

13. SCAFFOLDING

  • Is RIS Ltd using any scaffolding on site?

  • GUIDANCE:

  • Was a sub-contractor used to erect the scaffolding?

  • GUIDANCE:

  • Was the scaffolding liable to disturb asbestos whilst being erected?

  • GUIDANCE:

14. FURTHER COMMENTS/CLARIFICATIONS

  • Auditor observations/recommendation(s) for action.

  • Auditor's Signature

  • Supervisor's Signature

The templates available in our Public Library have been created by our customers and employees to help get you started using SafetyCulture's solutions. The templates are intended to be used as hypothetical examples only and should not be used as a substitute for professional advice. You should seek your own professional advice to determine if the use of a template is permissible in your workplace or jurisdiction. You should independently determine whether the template is suitable for your circumstances.