TNAG-1448-FCO40-1947-Executive-Council-of-Hong-Kong-memoranda-and-minutes-of-meet-1986 — Page 81

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For discussion

on 25 November 1986

XCR (86) 217 23

Copy No.

MEMORANDUM FOR EXECUTIVE COUNCIL

Buildings Ordinance

(Chapter 123)

BUILDING (CONSTRUCTION) (AMENDMENT)

REGULATIONS 1986

BUILDING (STANDARDS OF SANITARY FITMENTS, PLUMBING, DRAINAGE WORKS AND LATRINES) (AMENDMENT)

REGULATIONS 1986

487

Introduction

The purpose of this memorandum is to seek Members' approval of amendments to the Building (Construction) Regulations, and the Building (Standard of Sanitary Fitments, Plumbing, Drainage Works and Latrines) Regulations to exclude reference to asbestos materials as permitted building

materials.

Background

2

It is now accepted internationally that exposure to airborne asbestos fibres can present a health hazard. In the building industry the risk is greatest when asbestos dust is released during construction, alteration or demolition operations involving asbestos building products. Once in place, the degree, if any, to which these present a health hazard depends on how well the asbestos fibres are bound into the material, and on the likelihood of damage causing release of fibres.

3

Following the introduction of the Factories and Industrial Undertakings (Asbestos) Special Regulations 1986, in August this year, the use of the most hazardous asbestos building products, sprayed acoustic plaster and

plaster and sprayed lagging where asbestos is only loosely bound, and all products containing the more dangerous blue asbestos (crocidolite) and brown asbestos (amosite)

have been prohibited. In addition, the Regulations provide for the

workers when handling

asbestos

safety of

products.

construction

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