Master the rule change! Revision of Asbestos Hazard Prevention Regulations

A new requirement for pre-surveys has been announced as part of the revision of the Asbestos Hazard Prevention Regulations, and will come into effect on January 1, 2026.

■This time's rule change
・This is a change to the preliminary survey to check for asbestos content before construction.
　Regarding preliminary investigation when performing work such as dismantling structures,
The investigation must be conducted by someone who has the necessary knowledge to conduct it properly.

■Press release
・The Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare informed the Labor Policy Council on December 2022, 12 that “part of the Asbestos Hazard Prevention Regulations”
We consulted on the "Summary of the draft ministerial ordinance to amend the
In response to this consultation, the Council's Safety and Health Subcommittee (Subcommittee Chairman Hiroshi Shirouchi (Germany))
(Director, Chemical Substances Information Management Research Center, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health).
There was a report from the parliament that it was appropriate.
This ministerial ordinance amendment bill strengthens measures to prevent asbestos exposure during the demolition or renovation of structures.
Therefore, with the exception of some cases, those who have the necessary knowledge regarding preliminary investigations to determine whether or not asbestos, etc. are being used.
This obliges business operators to have their employees carry out the process.

[Source]
・The Labor Policy Council has approved the “Summary of the Ministerial Ordinance to Partially Amend the Asbestos Hazard Prevention Ordinance” as appropriate.
There was a report on
https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/newpage_29733.html　(From the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare website)

Content
① From construction starting on April 2022, 4, records of preliminary investigation will be created to determine whether or not asbestos is used.
"Construction, installation and preservation (for three years)" is mandatory.

In addition, from October 2023, 10, qualified persons will be able to conduct preliminary inspections of buildings and ships.
becomes compulsory.

It is highly likely that asbestos will be used in conjunction with this revision.
Work such as demolition of structures (specific structures) and operations where paint or other asbestos may be used
For operations such as the removal of certain materials, the appropriate investigation shall be carried out, except as specified.
The preliminary investigation shall be conducted by a qualified person designated by the Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare as having the necessary knowledge to conduct the preliminary investigation.
It is mandatory.

Works other than those designated by the Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare as being highly likely to contain asbestos, etc.
Regarding preliminary inspections related to work such as dismantling objects, there is a possibility that paint or other asbestos may be used.
This is only applicable to work related to the removal of materials with .

② In addition, if a preliminary investigation is conducted regarding the structure, record the name of the person who conducted the investigation and report the incident.
In the case where a preliminary investigation has been conducted, the person who conducted the investigation is qualified as specified by the Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare.
It is mandatory to keep a copy of the certificate for 3 years.

[Source]
・About the draft ministerial ordinance to partially revise the Asbestos Hazard Prevention Ordinance

https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/11305000/001024158.pdf　(From the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare website)

■Points to master rule changes

This amendment provides a grace period of approximately three years before it takes effect.
This means that a preliminary investigation by a qualified person is mandatory.
This period was set aside relatively long to allow for the training and development of the necessary number of researchers.

In the future, a course will be held to obtain qualifications as a preliminary investigator, so it is essential to gather information.
It is very important not to.
To avoid rushing to participate in the training just before the implementation,
Be sure to act early!

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