Generally speaking, asbestos containing materials (ACMs), such as asbestos-cement roofs, do not seem to pose a health risk to occupants, provided they are maintained in good condition and the materials are not disturbed in any way (by processes such as cutting, drilling, high pressure water cleaning, etc). Only if the ACMs are disturbed by such processes in an uncontrolled manner, and fibres get dispersed into the air and inhaled, there might be a significant health risk.

The Asbestos Regulations require that any ACMs in a building are kept in good condition and an inventory is kept on the premises of their location, condition and extent. Any person performing work on these materials must be informed and trained, and take the necessary precautions (such as wearing a respirator mask and wetting the material beforehand) to minimize the risk and protect their health.