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Asbestos Safety
Important Announcement relating to Changes to Asbestos Laws
Since 1 January 2008, a bonded asbestos licence (Licence type AS2) has been required to remove more than 10 square metres of bonded asbestos material. A friable asbestos licence (Licence type AS1) is required to remove, repair or disturb any amount of friable (can be crumbled, pulverized or reduced to power by hand pressure when dry) asbestos. A friable asbestos removalist can remove any quantity of bonded and/or friable asbestos.
For further information please visit the WorkCover website or phone the asbestos demolition hotline on (02) 8260 5885
Effects on Health:
Asbestos is formed in fibre bundles and, as it is further processed or distrubed, the fibre bundles become progressively finer and more hazardous to health. Breathing in fibres brings a risk of asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma.
There is no cause for conern if your home contains asbestos material that is kept in good condition. Asbestos is only a problem when it becomes damaged or when it is disturbed, creating airborne asbestos fibres. These fibres can be released into the air when asbestos products are incorrectly handled, stored or transposted for disposal.
Before starting work:
Check with Planning and Assessment Department if approval is required or if there are any specific requirements relating to your proposal.
Safety checklist:
Do not use power tools
Asbestos fibres can be released if power tools are used for anything other than the removal of screws.
Do not water blast or scrub with a stiff broom or brush
It is illegal to water blast asbestos-cement sheets. If the material has been accidentally water blasted or has suddenly deteriorated in some way, you should call a licensed asbestos removal contractor.
Wet gently with water
When removing fibro sheets, wet gently with water, whenever possible, to minimise any release of fibres. Remember do not water blast. Be careful when on roofs, as asbestos sheets are brittle and slippery when wet.
Avoid drilling and cutting into asbestos products
Do not drill holes through eaves, flues or vents, as these may also be asbestos products. Never cut into a fibro sheet. Instead remove the entire sheet and replace it with a non-asbestos product.
Let people know
Talk it over with those who may be affected by the removal and disposal of your fibro, such as neighbours. Protect surrounding environments from the work area (other parts of the building, neighbours etc)
Cover up / Personal Protective Clothing
You should wear disposable overalls and an appropriate dust mask if you are working with asbestos products. Make sure your mask has two straps to hold it firmly in place. Don't use masks that only have one.
Don't drop fibro sheets
Remove asbestos sheets carefully. Lower, don't drop them to the ground with minimum breakage.
Councils Role and Requirements
Workcover NSW is responsbile under the OH&S Regulations on building sites where paid workers are undertaking the works.
Council has responsibility for owner/builders conducting building, demos, renovations, etc. Council further has investigation and enforcement powers under the Protection of the Environment Operation Act 1997 and the Contaminated Land Management Act 1997 for pollution events.
Where can asbestos waste be disposed?
For the location of approved waste facilities please contact :
- Waste Service NSW on 1300 651 116
- Kimbriki Waste & Recycling Facility 9486 3512 or 9486 3542
- DEC - Environment Protection Authority on 9995 5000
Asbestos fact sheet
The fact sheet included details on where asbestos may be found in a home and who to contact for the safe management, removal and disposal of asbestos.
