Fact Sheets & Checklists

 HOMEOWNERS

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FACT SHEET 1: WORKING SAFELY WITH ASBESTOS AROUND THE HOME

A simple guide to ensure homeowners manage asbestos safely. Download Size 3MB
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FACT SHEET 2: SAFE PRACTICES FOR HOMEOWNERS REPAIRING OR REMOVING SMALL AMOUNTS OF ASBESTOS MATERIALS

A detailed guide to ensuring homeowners manage asbestos safely when repairing or removing small amounts of asbestos safely. Download Size 4MB
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FACT SHEET 3: SAFE PRACTICES FOR RURAL & REGIONAL HOMEOWNERS & FARMERS REPAIRING OR REMOVING SMALL AMOUNTS OF ASBESTOS MATERIALS

A simple guide ensuring safe practices for the management of asbestos in rural and regional communities and on farms. Download Size 4MB

THE RESIDENTIAL CHECKLIST: A HOMEOWNER’S GUIDE TO IDENTIFYING ASBESTOS-CONTAINING MATERIAL TO MANAGE IT SAFELY

The Residential Checklist‘ is designed to empower homeowners and renovators with a better understanding of the possible locations of asbestos-containing materials in homes and the knowledge they need to ensure it is managed safely. These Checklists include product images and lists each possible location where asbestos-containing materials might be found both inside and outside homes.  By following simple step-by-step instructions, in less than an hour homeowners can have a better understanding of the types of products that might be in their home and if it’s in need of maintenance, repair or removal. Download Size 4MB

BLANK CHECKLIST TABLE FOR ADDITIONAL LOCATIONS & PRODUCTS

Additional blank tables for checklists if you require additional space. Download Size 1MB

BLANK SCHEDULE TABLE

Additional blank schedule table if you require additional space. Download Size 1MB
   

TRADIES

FACT SHEETS

T1: 20 POINT SAFETY CHECK FOR TRADIES

Download Size 2MB

T2: A TRADIE’S GUIDE TO SAFE PRACTICES IN MANAGING ASBESTOS IN RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES

A detailed guide to ensure tradies manage asbestos safely when working in residential properties. Download Size 4MB

 

CHECKLISTS

T3: A Trades-person’s Guide to Asbestos Containing Materials in Domestic Properties 

An instruction guide for the Tradies Residential Asbestos Checklist Download Now

Total Property Checklist – Generic 

A total property guide to ensure tradies manage asbestos safely when working in residential properties. Download Now

Blank Checklist Tables For Tradies

Additional tables for checklists if you require additional space. Download Now

Blank Repair Schedules For Tradies

Additional repair schedules for checklists if additional space is required. Download Now

TRADE SPECIFIC CHECKLISTS

Instruction Guide: Residential Asbestos Checklist For Tradies – Download Checklist 4mb  
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   

TOOLBOX TALKS

National Asbestos Awareness Month Toolbox Talk

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Unexpected Asbestos Finds 

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Types of asbestos common in construction 

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Naturally Occurring Asbestos 

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Managing asbestos in the workplace 

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Exploding Asbestos Myths 

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Commercial Non-residential Properties

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Asbestos Management Plans & Registers

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Asbestos in residential properties 

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Rural and regional properties 

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Download All 10 Toolbox Talks in single PDF Download All 10 Toolbox Talks in zip file
 

COMMERCIAL & NON-RESIDENTIAL 

 

ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT HANDBOOK FOR COMMERCIAL & NON-RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES

The Handbook is a comprehensive guide providing information on the roles and responsibilities of property owners, managers, contractors, sub-contractors, foreman and workers.  It features easy to follow step-by-step instructions on how to develop and implement policies and procedures to assist in identifying and managing asbestos safely and in accordance with regulations.  It includes a list of property types across multiple sectors including government, business (high rise, mid-rise, low rise), industrial, agriculture, recreation, education and more.  The Handbook that explains complex information in user-friendly, accessible terms is complemented by Fact Sheets and Templates. The Handbook also features images of asbestos-containing products commonly found in commercial and non-residential properties. 

ASBESTOS REGISTER TEMPLATE

The Asbestos Register is one of the most important documents required to manage asbestos safely.  The Template can be downloaded in Excel enabling users to note the locations and types of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) found in properties, the areas where ACM is suspected but not confirmed, if and when testing has been conducted; and, if ACM has or is to be removed.

MODEL ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PLAN (AMP) GUIDE TEMPLATE

While the Handbook provides instructions and recommendations for developing an Asbestos Management Plan (AMP), this Template is a user-friendly guide that lists the various steps required to meet mandatory requirements.  The Template is pre-prepared in Word and incorporates all the information required to ensure asbestos is managed safely and in accordance with regulations.

ASBESTOS REMOVAL RECORD TEMPLATE

The Asbestos Removal Record Template enables users to record the removal of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) found in properties.

WORKERS TRAINING REQUIREMENTS & RECORDS TEMPLATE

It is a mandatory requirement that all workers who may come into contact with asbestos must be trained to identify and manage asbestos and ACMs in accordance with regulations, and to ensure they understand the risks and procedures required to manage asbestos safely.  All training of workers must be recorded and maintained for five years after employment has ceased.  The Template can be downloaded in either Excel or Word to assist managers in recording all staff training in accordance with regulations.

MODEL ASBESTOS POLICY FOR CONTRACTORS & BUILDERS TEMPLATE

The Model Asbestos Policy Template is designed to assist contractors and builders to initiate asbestos safety policies in their workplace.  The Template can be downloaded in Word to enable managers or business owners to incorporate a logo, company name and any additional information they wish to include as part of their Asbestos Policy.

MODEL ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES FOR CONTRACTORS & BUILDERS TEMPLATE

Asbestos Management Procedures are an essential part of an AMP.  The Template is designed to provide contractors and builders with the resources they need to ensure their asbestos management procedures are effective to minimise exposure of asbestos fibres among workers.

FACT SHEET C1 – UNEXPECTED ASBESTOS, ACM FINDS OR INCIDENTS PROCEDURES FLOW CHART

The Flow Chart provides a user-friendly, step-by-step visual guide to managing unexpected asbestos finds in accordance with regulations which can be displayed in the workplace and issued to workers as part of their training.

FACT SHEET C2 – UNEXPECTED ASBESTOS FINDS OR INCIDENTS 

Unexpected asbestos finds pose a threat to workers so it’s vital that they are trained in the steps required to minimise exposure to asbestos fibres.  This Fact Sheet provides guidance and step-by-step procedures for managing unexpected finds or incidents and where possible, what is required to minimise any future risks.

FACT SHEET C3 – ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS AND GUIDELINES

The Asbestos Management Recommendations & Guidelines Fact Sheet provides users with user-friendly information for the safe management of asbestos in commercial and non-residential properties which may be issued to workers as part of their training program.

FACT SHEET C4 – USING PPE AND RPE

Knowing when, why and how to use and lawfully dispose of PPE and RPE is critical to workers who may come in contact with asbestos on the job.  This Fact Sheet provides step-by-step instructions on how to use and dispose of PPE and RPE in accordance with regulations.

FACT SHEET C5 – ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF ASBESTOS AND ACM

This Fact Sheet contains a matrix to visually demonstrate the various responsibilities of property owners, contractors, subcontractors and workers when it comes to managing asbestos safely in the workplace.

FACT SHEET C6 – 20 POINT SAFETY CHECK FOR CONTRACTORS, SUBCONTRACTORS AND WORKERS

This checklist provides 20 key points to assist in managing asbestos safely and may be used as part of asbestos awareness training programs.

ALL COMMERCIAL RESOURCES 

Access and download all files including ‘Print Ready’ files with crop marks, digital files and fact sheets etc 
 

NATURALLY OCCURRING ASBESTOS

While the NOA Guide was developed for use by people living in NSW, the practices the Guide recommends in establishing and maintaining a NOA Asbestos Management Plan may also be appropriate for use in any community where NOA has been identified or is suspected.  Generic versions of the Naturally Occurring Asbestos – Asbestos Management Plan Guide and templates were created for reference by people living and working in states other than NSW.  If you live in a state or territory other than NSW, contact your regulator to ensure NOA is managed in accordance with regulations.

NATURALLY OCCURRING ASBESTOS – ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PLAN GUIDE

The Naturally Occurring Asbestos – Asbestos Management Plan Guide explains the reasons why it’s important to manage NOA safely, when and where NOA may pose a potential health risk, who to contact for advice, and the steps required to manage NOA safely in accordance with NSW Work, Health and Safety Regulations 2017 and the Codes of Practice for asbestos management. User-friendly templates have been developed to assist people in developing and managing an Asbestos Management Plan.  All templates are available in 2 formats. The first includes fields where users can type information, and the second is in PDF format that can be printed for handwritten notes.

ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PLAN – SITE SPECIFIC TEMPLATE

This template is designed for use when conducting risk assessments in various parts of properties as work is required.

ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PLAN – PROPERTY RISK ASSESSMENT TEMPLATE

This template enables users to itemise the necessary information when conducting a property risk assessment for naturally occurring asbestos.

INCIDENT PROCEDURES & REPORT TEMPLATE

This template enables users to record incidents and steps to manage and record incidences should they occur.

WORKERS TRAINING REQUIREMENTS & RECORDS TEMPLATE

This template assists managers in recording and maintaining records of training undertaken by workers in asbestos awareness and naturally occurring asbestos.

FACT SHEET 1: NOA DECONTAMINATION 

The Decontamination Fact Sheet provides information about the importance of personal and equipment decontamination when working with NOA and the steps for disposal and transportation of NOA. Download Size 1.3MB

FACT SHEET 2: NOA RPE & PPE 

The NOA RPE and PPE Fact Sheet provides information about Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is, why it’s essential and how to use it correctly and effectively. Download Size 1.3MB Download Size 1.7MB

ALL NOA DOCUMENTATION 

Access and download all files including ‘Print Ready’ files with crop marks, digital files and fact sheets etc ACCESS ALL FILES

Video: Asbestos In Your Home

Asbestos In Homes: A Guide to Identification, Testing & Removal

Asbestos in Homes: A Guide to Identification, Testing and Removal demonstrates the entire process of safe asbestos management by professionals from assessment, identification and removal of asbestos-containing materials to obtaining a clearance certificate to ensure they meet government requirements. Industry experts explain asbestos safety, the legalities and shows property owners the simple steps they need to take BEFORE starting renovations so they know how to protect themselves, their families, tradies and anyone who might risk exposure to asbestos fibres during renovations, demolition and maintenance.

Featuring industry leaders Cherie Barber, Australia’s Renovation Queen™ and Asbestos Awareness Ambassador and members of the Asbestos Education Committee; Bret Baker, President of the Asbestos & Hazmat Removal Contractors Association of NSW (AHRCA); John Batty, President of the Asbestos & Hazardous-Materials Consultants Association (AHCA); and Mathew Klintfält, homeowner and renovator who continues the work of his late mother Carol Klintfält OAM in asbestos awareness advocacy, together we’re continuing to provide essential, informative tools that can help save lives.

The Asbestos In Homes: A guide to Identification, Testing & Removal video was proudly sponsored by EDP – an RSK Company, Renovating For Profit, Beasy PTY Ltd, The Asbestos Education Committee & Advocacy Australia.

Asbestos In Homes: Identification, Testing & Removal (Full Length)

Asbestos In Homes: Identification, Testing & Removal (Overview)

Our heartfelt thanks to Cherie Barber for producing this informative video for the National Asbestos Awareness campaign. Cherie has been an Asbestos Awareness Ambassador since 2013 and is widely known as Australia’s Renovation Queen and the nation’s leading authority on profitable home renovating.  Thanks to Cherie’s undying dedication to increasing awareness of the dangers of asbestos among homeowners and renovators, together we’re helping to prevent the incidences of asbestos-related diseases across Australia.

Asbestos In Your Home: The Ultimate Renovators Guide

NOTE: Since this video was produced, in accordance with revised national data, the year for the end of residential asbestos use has been extended from 1987 to 1990.

 

 

Asbestos Database A-Z

Full Size
NameBathroom Floor Tiles
CaptionAsbestos products used in grout and glue behind tiles
LocationDomestic home
SourceAsbestos Education Committee
Image Id33
Full Size
NameBathroom Floor Tiles
CaptionAsbestos products used in grout and glue behind tiles
LocationDomestic home
SourceAsbestos Education Committee
Image Id35
Full Size
NameBathroom Wall Tiles
CaptionAsbestos products used in grout and wall behind tiles - tiles are lifting.
LocationDomestic home
SourceAsbestos Education Committee
Image Id66

Adhesives and dry powder mixes

Product description

Adhesives, mastics, putty, sealants, plasters and paints are the various types of adhesives known to contain asbestos. They include:

  • Asphaltic cutback adhesive: This is black in colour and is usually found beneath vinyl tiles and flooring. Asbestos was mixed with this product to make it more durable.
  • Cement adhesive: This is also called furnace cement or stove cement and is a type of joint compound and adhesive used in areas exposed to extreme heat. Furnace cement may be used in boilers, stoves, chimneys, kilns, refractories and manufacturing plants.
  • Duct adhesive: Commonly available in the form of tape (similar to duct tape) and sprayable adhesive, this product was often used in HVAC systems to prevent cool or warm air from escaping and affecting the temperature of a climate-controlled home or building.
  • Emulsion adhesive: This is a synthetic form that was used to bond synthetic laminates, like roofing or floor tiles, to wood and timber.
  • Fibrous adhesive: This liquid form was typically applied with a brush or sprayer. Through the years, fibrous forms of asbestos-contaminated adhesive often broke down, which generated dust. The dust created by the crumbling fibrous adhesive often allowed toxic asbestos particles to enter the air, where they presented a serious health hazard to individuals nearby.
  • Lagging adhesive: This water-based product was used in heating and cooling systems to seal ducts and ventilation corridors against the leakage of temperature-treated air.
  • Mastic adhesive: Made from sticky resin of the mastic tree, this type is available in a variety of forms, including liquid and glue. It was commonly used in the construction and heating and air industries.
  • Seals: Seals are used to prevent leaking in roofing materials by joining roofing shingles together. Seals, or packing, protect the roofs of homes and other structures against high temperatures and caustic substances. Roof seals prevent leaking and weather damage and have been used to protect against bleaching, cracking, UV exposure and rain damage.
Product type Adhesives, mastics, putty, sealants, plasters and paints
Sub-Product type
Trading name(s)
Other name(s)
Build element Construction
Product identification

Known uses Tiling, grouting, lagging,
Asbestos fibre type Chrysotile (white asbestos)
Friable or Non-Friable Non-Friable
Known Supplier(s) John Mansville
Known place of manufacture Barraba
Date / period of manufacture
Building construction period 1921-1930,1931-1940,1941-1950,1951-1960,1961-1970,1970-1980,1981-1990
Location Domestic home
  • Bathroom
  • Dining room
  • Dog kennels
  • Fencing
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen
  • Laundry
  • Toilet
  • Windows / Doors
Commercial
  • Doors
  • Flooring
  • Plant
  • Plumbing
  • Walls
  • Windows
Industrial
  • Doors
  • Flooring
  • Plant
  • Plumbing
  • Walls
  • Windows
Plant
      Other New name of other

     

    More Images

    Full Size
    NameBathroom wall and floor tiles with toilet
    CaptionAsbestos products used in grout and wall behind and under floor of tiles
    LocationDomestic home
    SourceAsbestos Education Committee
    Image Id67
    Full Size
    NameBathroom Floor Tiles
    CaptionAsbestos products used in grout and glue behind tiles
    LocationDomestic home
    SourceAsbestos Education Committee
    Image Id110
    Full Size
    NameMastic on joints - Plant
    CaptionAir Conditioning Trunking - asbestos contain mastic to joints.
    LocationPlant
    SourceSafeWork NSW
    Image Id111
    Full Size
    NameAsphaltic cutback adhesive
    CaptionAsphaltic cutback adhesive under vinyl tiles
    LocationCommercial
    SourceWorkSafe Tasmania
    Image Id112
    Full Size
    NameAsphaltic cutback adhesive
    CaptionAsphaltic cutback adhesive under vinyl tiles
    LocationCommercial
    SourceWorkSafe Tasmania
    Image Id113
    Full Size
    NameBathroom Floor Tiles
    CaptionAsbestos products used in grout and glue behind tiles
    LocationDomestic home
    SourceAsbestos Education Committee
    Image Id224
    Full Size
    NameBathroom Floor and Wall Tiles
    CaptionAsbestos products used in grout and glue behind tiles
    LocationDomestic home
    SourceAsbestos Education Committee
    Image Id225
    Full Size
    NameBathroom wall - tiles removed
    CaptionAsbestos cement wall behind tiles with asbestos containing adhesive.
    LocationDomestic home
    SourceJim's Building Inspections
    Image Id246
    Full Size
    NameBathroom floor - tiles removed
    CaptionAsbestos cement floor under tiles with asbestos containing adhesive.
    LocationDomestic home
    SourceJim's Building Inspections
    Image Id247
    Full Size
    NameLaundry wall - tiles removed
    CaptionAsbestos cement wall behind tiles with asbestos containing adhesive.
    LocationDomestic home
    SourceJim's Building Inspections
    Image Id248
    Full Size
    NameAsbestos Cement Sheeting Behind Ceramic Tiles With Adhesive
    CaptionAsbestos Cement Sheeting Behind Ceramic Tiles With Adhesive
    LocationDomestic home
    SourceAsbestos Awareness
    Image Id333
    Full Size
    NameOutdoor Tiles
    CaptionACM in adhesive and grout of tile
    LocationDomestic home
    SourceAsbestos Awareness
    Image Id345
    Full Size
    NameUnder Carpet and Vinyl Flooring
    CaptionAdhesives under vinyl and carpet flooring and the the floor itself contain ACMs
    LocationDomestic home
    SourceAsbestos Awareness
    Image Id381
    Full Size
    NameAC Wall behind tiles and in ACM in grout
    CaptionTiles falling off laundry wall expose unsealed asbestos cement sheeting and expose crumbling grout with ACM.
    LocationDomestic home
    SourceAsbestos Awareness
    Image Id395

     

    Download as PDF

    Awards – 2014 Winners

     

    Betty Awards Logo

    In 2014 there were 28 winners in the national ‘Betty Awards’ for their significant contribution to community education during national Asbestos Awareness Month. Organisations who actively participated and registered in the Asbestos Awareness Month Campaign were eligible to enter The Bettys.

    Key to the campaign’s success is the invaluable contribution of stakeholders and community leaders who are able to reach out directly to their communities to help them understand asbestos products and educate them on safe practices. Of the 563 councils nationally, 343 (61%) registered their participation, an increase of 181% – the highest number of council participants since the campaign launched in 2012. In NSW, 131 (86%) of councils participated – a 98% increase on 2013, and with the exception of WA (59 Councils – 42%) over 50% of councils in all states and territories joined with the AEC to educate their communities.

    Thank you for all the incredible support from all the organisations who participated.

    Best Asbestos Awareness Month Campaigner: Government Department or Organisation

    Winner: The Western Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils
    Highly Commended: Local Government New South Wales

    Most Innovative Asbestos Awareness Month Council Campaigner

    Winner: Mornington Shire Council (QLD)
    Highly Commended: Wollongong City Council (NSW)

    Most Active Asbestos Awareness Month Council Campaigner Awards

    Metropolitan New South Wales
    Winner: Campbelltown City Council
    Highly Commended: Pittwater Council & Camden Council
    Commended: Holroyd City Council

    Metropolitan Victoria
    Winner: Nillumbik Shire Council

    Regional New South Wales
    Winner: Wollongong City Council
    Highly Commended: Liverpool Plains Shire Council, Mid-Western Regional Council & Queanbeyan City Council
    Commended: Bega Valley Shire Council & Cooma-Monaro Shire Council

    Regional Queensland
    Winner: Mornington Shire Council
    Highly Commended: Cook Shire Council

    Regional South Australia
    Winner: Wakefield Regional Council
    Highly Commended: District Council of the Copper Coast

    Honourable Mentions:
    New South Wales: Parramatta City Council, Wagga Wagga City Council & Albury City Council
    Queensland: Maranoa Regional Council
    Tasmania: Glamorgan Spring Bay Council
    Victoria: East Gippsland Shire Council, Knox City Council, Maroondah City Council
    Western Australia: City of South Perth, City of Greater Geraldton, City of Kwinana

    Enter now!

    Betty Awards HomeDownload Entry FormDownload Infomation Kit

     

     

    Fill out my online form.

    20 Point Safety Check

    AsbestosAwarenessIMG_5786RGet to kNOw Asbestos – The 20 Point Asbestos Safety Check

    1. At least 1 in 3 Australian homes contain asbestos including brick, weatherboard, fibro and clad homes and apartments.
    2. Asbestos was widely used in the manufacture of building materials and other products prior to being phased out by 1990 and banned in 2003. Therefore:
      1. If your home was built or renovated prior to 1987 it is ‘highly likely’ that it contains products incorporating asbestos.
      2. If your home was built or renovated between 1987 and 1990 it is ‘likely’ that it may contain some asbestos-containing materials.
      3. However, if your home was built or renovated after 1990 it is ‘unlikely’ that asbestos-containing materials will be present.
    3. If asbestos is disturbed during renovations or maintenance your health and the health of your family could be at risk.
    4. DIY is not recommended where asbestos is present.
    5. When renovating or working in and around homes, if in doubt assume asbestos materials are present and take every precaution.
    6. Dealing with asbestos is important and serious, but it’s not overwhelming – IT IS MANAGEABLE!
    7. If you’re not sure if asbestos is in your home you can have it inspected by a licenced removalist or a licensed asbestos assessor.
    8. Products made from asbestos cement include fibro sheeting (flat and corrugated), water, drainage and flue pipes, roofing shingles, guttering and floor and wall coverings. It could be anywhere! Visit the Asbestos Products Database to find out more.
    9. If you find asbestos in your home; Don’t cut it! Don’t drill it! Don’t drop it! Don’t sand it! Don’t saw it! Don’t scrape it! Don’t scrub it! Don’t dismantle it! Don’t tip it! Don’t waterblast it! Don’t demolish it! And whatever you do… Don’t dump it!”
    10. If left undisturbed asbestos materials in good, stable condition are unlikely to release dangerous fibres and pose a health risk. Generally, you don’t need to remove the asbestos. Paint it and leave it alone but remember to check it occasionally for any signs of wear and tear.
    11. There are legal requirements regarding asbestos management, its removal and disposal.
    12. While some might follow the regulations and safety requirements to remove small amounts of asbestos, the safest way to manage its removal is to retain a licenced professional asbestos removalist equipped to protect you and your family from the dangers of asbestos dust and fibres.
    13. Where asbestos fibres are friable (loose and not bonded into building materials), ONLY licenced friable asbestos removalists are allowed to remove it.
    14. Professional removal of asbestos is affordable. You can’t afford not to use a professional!
    15. The cost of asbestos removal by a licenced professional is comparable to most licenced tradesmen including electricians, plumbers and tilers.
    16. The cost of disposal at a lawful site is often included with the cost of removal by a licenced professional.
    17. If you must work with any material that may contain asbestos or remove asbestos yourself, protect yourself and your family and follow the legal and safety requirements for the management of asbestos to minimise the release of dust or small particles from the asbestos materials.
    18. There are a number of safety precautions you will need to take including wearing specific protective clothing, the correct mask or breathing apparatus and ensure you minimise dust and dispose of it legally. Download Fact Sheet 1 or 2 for instructions on how to do this.
    19. Never use tools on asbestos materials as they will make asbestos fibres airborne including: Power tools such as electric drills, angle grinders, circular saws and electric sanders.  Never use high pressure water blasters or compressed air.
    20. Don’t play renovation roulette! Think Smart. Think Safe. Think asbestosawareness.com.au – Because it’s not worth the risk!

     

    Important Safety Facts To Know When Working With Asbestos_MG_0029

     

    Find Out More About Managing Asbestos Safely

    Multiple Fact Sheets and downloadable resources have been developed for homeowners, tradies, farmers and commercial properties on how to manage asbestos in the their homes and workplaces safely including:

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