A discussion document on regulating work involving asbestos describes New Zealand as being out of step with other countries, including Australia and Europe.
The paper, which outlines proposals for new health and safety regulations, has been released by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.
The Health and Safety at Work Act discussion document's criticisms included what it said was a lack of consistency in how and where asbestos samples were taken.
It said the current regulations did not say who decided whether asbestos was "friable", meaning it was in dust form which could become airborne and inhaled.
The document also noted that because maintenance workers were generally not trained in asbestos, they often did not recognise it on a work site and could transfer particles to their vehicle or homes.
Submissions on the discussion document close on 18 July.