Business Canterbury | HR Insights

Asbestos Guidance Update

Written by The Business Canterbury Team | May 24, 2026 11:49:45 PM

WorkSafe updates asbestos guidance to improve clarity and safety standards 

WorkSafe has published an updated suite of guidance to help businesses and workers safely manage and work with asbestos. Developed in close collaboration with the asbestos industry, the guidance introduces targeted resources tailored to specific roles, including asbestos surveyors, removalists, assessors, tradespeople, and general businesses.

In October 2025, WorkSafe consulted on revoking the 2016 Asbestos Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) in favour of the new guidance suite. A summary of consultation findings is available on the  WorkSafe consultations webpage .

In response to industry feedback requesting retention of an ACOP, the 2016 ACOP will remain in place until after the upcoming Health and Safety at Work Act reforms are enacted.

The updated guidance reflects current industry practice and is designed to make it easier for users to access the information most relevant to their work.

For more information, visit  Asbestos | WorkSafe.