Reducing Asbestos Exposure through an Identification Guide
As a freelance contractor, I designed and developed the Asbestos Product Guide (APG) for ASSEA, a comprehensive online database replacing outdated methods for identifying asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in Australia. It features robust search, detailed product information, and easy content management, ultimately contributing to reduced asbestos exposure and improved identification accuracy for a safer environment.
Client
ASSEA
Industry
Government
Year
2024
Challenge
The primary challenge was to transform a vast and complex collection of information about various asbestos products into an easily navigable and understandable online resource.
It involved structuring a large, disparate dataset of product images, descriptions, historical usage information, and brand names into a logical and searchable format. The platform needed to be usable by both asbestos professionals and the general public, catering to varying levels of technical understanding. ASSEA required the ability to independently maintain and update the database after launch.
Solution
The Asbestos Product Guide, launched in June 2024, is a user-friendly, responsive website providing a comprehensive visual reference for ACMs. Key features include:
- Intuitive Search & Filtering for products by keyword, category or other criteria.
- Detailed Product Pages featuring high-quality images, detailed descriptions, historical context and other relevant information.
- Clear Navigation for easy browsing and discovery of relevant products.
- Responsive Design for a seamless experience across all devices.
- Easy Content Management so ASSEA staff can easily add, edit and manage product information.
My Role and Approach
My process began by closely collaborating with ASSEA and key stakeholders. Through workshops and interviews, I gained a deep understanding of their needs, the target audience, and the existing data. This led to the following decisions:
- I established the Information Architecture, implementing a grandparent/parent/child hierarchical structure to organise the products logically, ensuring intuitive navigation.
- I developed a standardised page template for products, ensuring consistency in content presentation and facilitating efficient data entry.
- I created wireframes and prototypes, iteratively testing them with target users to refine the UX so that the platform met the needs of both professionals and the public.
- I implemented the APG brand, designed by IDENT, across the platform to establish a consistent identity.
- I produced comprehensive learning guides and conducted training sessions for ASSEA staff to manage and update the database.
Impact
The APG has been met with a warm reception from the industry, with numerous additional product submissions received after launch, demonstrating its value and relevance.
Expected benefits include:
- Reduced asbestos exposure by enabling quick and accurate identification of ACMs, encouraging necessary precautions to minimise risk.
- Improved asbestos identification accuracy through clear visuals, descriptions, and historical context.
- Support for asbestos professionals through a readily accessible and comprehensive reference tool.
- Increased public awareness of potential ACMs in buildings, leading to more responsible renovation and demolition practices.
- Facilitates compliance with asbestos regulations and best practices.
- Enables data collection and research to improve future asbestos management strategies.
