The clearance process
New Zealand commonly follows a four-stage clearance process. This approach is recognised as a best practice for independently verifying that an area is safe for re-occupancy after asbestos work has been completed.
The process involves:
1. Preliminary check of the work area and enclosure
The work area and enclosure are inspected to confirm that removal equipment, waste and tools have been taken out and that the area is ready for detailed assessment.
2. Thorough visual inspection
A competent person, or a licensed asbestos assessor for friable and Class A work, carries out a detailed visual inspection. The purpose is to confirm that no visible asbestos debris, dust or contamination remains in the work area or enclosure.
3. Air monitoring
Air monitoring is performed, often while gently disturbing surfaces, to help ensure airborne fibre levels are below the trace level. This stage is mandatory for Class A friable asbestos removal and offers objective confirmation that airborne risk has been eliminated.
4. Final assessment and clearance certification
Once the area has passed both the visual inspection and the air monitoring stage, the enclosure is dismantled. A final visual assessment is then completed. If all criteria meet New Zealand requirements, a clearance certificate is issued determining that the area can be re-occupied safely.
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