What is the primary purpose of conducting a Risk Assessment in asbestos management?

The primary purpose of conducting a Risk Assessment in asbestos management is to evaluate the likelihood and impact of asbestos exposure. This process involves identifying asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), evaluating their condition, and assessing the potential for exposure to airborne asbestos fibers. By understanding the risk factors associated with asbestos, organizations can develop appropriate control measures to protect worker safety and health, and ensure regulatory compliance. This proactive approach allows for informed decision-making regarding the maintenance, remediation, or removal of asbestos, thus preventing potential health hazards related to asbestos exposure.

While considerations such as the structural integrity of buildings, financial planning, and employee training are important aspects of an overall asbestos management strategy, they arise after the risk assessment process has identified areas of concern regarding exposure risk. The central focus of the assessment is to ascertain how likely exposure is and what the potential health impacts could be, which directly influences the subsequent actions taken.