SafeWork SA has fined a contractor $3,600 for exposing workers to asbestos.

The principal contractor was fined after they failed to review an asbestos register, leading to workers carrying out demolition work being exposed to asbestos fibres.

A SafeWork SA Investigation found that an asbestos register was readily accessible and had recorded the presence of asbestos for the work area being demolished.

The principal contractor who had control of the workplace failed to review, and if necessary revise the asbestos register prior to the demolition work commencing.

SafeWork SA reminds businesses that asbestos has been classified as a known human carcinogen. There is sufficient evidence that asbestos causes mesothelioma and other lung diseases.

SafeWork SA Executive Director, Martyn Campbell said; “Asbestos legislation and licensing exists for the protection of workers and others engaged in such work, and for the protection of the public”.