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

The Asbestos Education Committee’s latest tool, the Asbestos in Homes: A Guide to Identification, Testing and Removal video, educates homeowners and landlords about the risks of asbestos when renovating, demolishing or maintaining properties, adding to its extensive suite of free resources endorsed by experts and governments all only freely available at asbestosawareness.com.au

Our new, 20-minute real-life, step-by-step video, Asbestos in Homes: A Guide to Identification, Testing and Removal talks about asbestos safety, the legalities and guides 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.

The Asbestos in Homes: A Guide to Identification, Testing and Removal video, 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.

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 101 for Residential Property Owners, Managers and Tradies is an education resource developed for anyone who might do work on residential properties.

Developed in accordance with government Work Health and Safety Regulations and Codes of Practice, Asbestos 101 for Residential Property Owners, Managers and Tradies is a comprehensive resource that provides Australians with vital information as to why asbestos is dangerous; the risks of working unsafely with ACMs; the steps to take if they come across materials they suspect may contain asbestos; the safety procedures required for tradies who are working on residential properties; the importance of engaging an occupational hygienist or licenced asbestos assessor to confirm if asbestos is present; and, why it’s vital to only use licenced asbestos removalists to ensure hazardous asbestos materials are removed and disposed of safely in accordance with government regulations.

PLEASE NOTE: This is an education resource only – not a formal training program. Those required to undertake Asbestos Awareness training should do so via an accredited training organisation.

Download Asbestos 101 for Homeowners & Workers PDF This resource is for personal use only and not for commercial use. If you require a printable version of Asbestos 101 please contact us.

About Awards AEC Members Dedication

 

Bret Baker JP
Bret Baker is President of the Asbestos & Hazmat Removal Contractors Association of NSW (AHRCA). Bret is a Civil and Environmental Engineer and is the Managing Director of Beasy Pty Ltd with more than 25 years experienced in asbestos removal and demolition. Bret is a long-time industry representative on a number of government asbestos and demolition advisory committees including SafeWork NSW Demolition & Asbestos Consultative Committee and the The Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency – Non-Government Asbestos Advisory Committee (NGAAC). Bret has presented at state and national asbestos forums on asbestos-related industry issues. Bret is a member of the Asbestos Education Committee for the National Asbestos Awareness Campaign.

 

John Batty
John Batty is one of the founding members of the Asbestos & Hazardous-Materials Consultants Association (AHCA) and the Managing Director of EDP Consultants, a global provider of Health, Safety and Environmental Services. John has more than 18 years’ experience in asbestos and hazardous materials management, is a Licensed Asbestos Assessor and provides consultancy services to a number of government departments and private organisations. John is a member of the Asbestos Education Committee for the National Asbestos Awareness Campaign.

 

 

Clare Collins – Chair
Clare Collins is the Director of the National Asbestos Awareness Month campaign and asbestosawareness.com.au. Clare is the Managing Director of Insight Communications, the creators and managers of the Asbestos Awareness campaign since 2011. Working in consultation with government experts and industry leaders, Insight are the creatives behind the multi-award winning campaign and asbestosawareness.com.au. Insight has presented the campaign to stakeholders and industry leaders in the UK, Europe and Australia. Clare is the Chair of Advocacy Australia and the Asbestos Education Committee.

 
Councillor Greg Cummings

Clr Cummings has previously served as Mayor and Councillor on the former Holroyd City Council since 2004. He was elected as the first Mayor of Cumberland since inception in 2017. Clr Cummings has been instrumental in the initiation of the Workplace Tragedy Memorial, the asbestos awareness campaign, and Reconciliation Day. He strives to represent his constituents and is passionate about local issues. Clr Cummings is a member of the Asbestos Education Committee for the National Asbestos Awareness Campaign.

 

Mathew Klintfält, Asbestos Awareness Advocate and son of the Late Carol Klintfält AM
Mathew Klintfält is the son of the Late Carol Klintfält AM who was honoured with an Order of Australia in Queen’s Birthday Honours Roll 2015 for her tireless advocacy to Asbestos Awareness following her diagnosis with mesothelioma. Mathew is an advocated for the prevention of asbestos-related diseases providing personal insight into the impact asbestos had on his mother and his family and a member of the Asbestos Education Committee for the National Asbestos Awareness Campaign.

 

Phillip Smith
Phillip Smith is the Group Executive for Environment, Health, Safety and Quality at SHAPE Australia Pty Limited. Phil has over 30 years’ experience in the building industry and holds trade, construction, strategic leadership and WHS qualifications. Phil is a member of the Asbestos & Hazmat Removal Contractors Association and the OFSC Industry Reference Group, and strongly advocates for asbestos awareness causes, industry associations and charitable organisations. SHAPE has a strong focus on asbestos management, education, and awareness, with industry-leading asbestos management systems. Phil is a member of the Asbestos Education Committee for the National Asbestos Awareness Campaign.

Joanne Wade
Joanne Wade is the Head of Asbestos and Dust Diseases for Slater and Gordon Lawyers and is a respected thought leader in advocating for the needs of people with asbestos-related diseases since 1996. Joanne brings a unique credibility and very personal experience to the role, as her father is a victim of asbestos disease, which has led her to a career she is passionate about. Ms Wade was a founding member of Australia’s first Asbestos Education Committee and volunteers her expertise to the Asbestos Awareness Campaign aimed at educating homeowners and renovators on the dangers of asbestos.

 

Asbestos Awareness Education Resource for Young Workers 

Asbestos Awareness for Young Workers is an essential education resource to help prevent the incidences of exposure to hazardous asbestos fibres that can lead to asbestos-related diseases.

Developed in accordance with government Work Health and Safety Regulations and Codes of Practice, Asbestos Awareness for Young Workers is a comprehensive resource that provides young workers with vital information as to why asbestos is dangerous, the risks of working unsafely with ACMs, and the steps to take if they come across materials they suspect may contain asbestos including to report it to their boss, their supervisor or their Work Health and Safety representative.

The resource developed specifically for young workers features 10 sections including how asbestos came to be incorporated in more than 3,000 products still found in an extensive range of buildings including residential, non-residential and commercial properties; the sorts of products that may contain asbestos; what to be aware of when working in a region identified as having naturally occurring asbestos (NOA); who is responsible for asbestos identification and management on a worksite; who can remove asbestos; the importance of what to do if they suspect asbestos is present; and, a series of links to additional helpful information and resources.

Importantly, it also provides information on how young workers can report asbestos safety concerns on a jobsite by contacting SafeWork NSW on 131050 or visiting speakup.safework.nsw.gov.au where unsafe work practices can be reported anonymously.

The Asbestos Awareness for Young Workers was developed by Advocacy Australia’s Asbestos Education Committee in partnership with SafeWork NSW, thanks to funding awarded by the NSW Government. Developed specifically for young workers, apprentices, trade teachers, employers conscientious about protecting their workers from asbestos hazards and parents wanting to protect their family members, this invaluable asbestos education resource is free to download here.

Please note: Education presentation is 2.5GB in size.

Please support the valuable work of the Asbestos Education Committee, a division of the registered charity, Advocacy Australia.

To discuss sponsorship opportunities, including for Betty the Asbestos Education House, Asbestos Awareness Month and asbestosawareness.com.au please contact us via Advocacy Australia or you can make a donation via the mycause platform below.

Every dollar donated goes towards keeping asbestosawareness.com.au live and ensuring all our valuable education resources remain accessible to the community to ensure Carol Klinfalt OAM and Serafina Salucci OAM legacy of asbestos education lives on.

In November, please consider hosting a Blue Lamington Drive to raise awareness of the dangers of asbestos and raise vital funds to support the Asbestos Education Committee. Register your Blue Lamington Drive here.

The impact of natural disasters on Australians, our environment, wildlife and communities is devastating and can pose extreme risks to thousands of Australians impacted by storms, floods and bushfires.  But what many don’t realise is when homes, commercial and non-residential structures are burnt in bushfires or destroyed by storms, heavy rains or floods, the hidden danger that lurks in one-third of Aussie homes including fibro, brick, weatherboard and clad homes, is asbestos. 

Following natural disasters, it’s vital that residential and commercial property owners ensure they manage asbestos safely to protect themselves, their families and their communities from unnecessary exposure to deadly asbestos fibres.

 

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Managing asbestos hazards following storms and floods

If you live in a flood-affected community you need to know the potential hazards to avoid including asbestos and know what to do to manage asbestos safely. 

Why can asbestos-containing materials be dangerous following floods and storms? 

When homes and other buildings containing asbestos are damaged during floods, wind and storms (including hail storms), the materials can become eroded, disturbed, broken or friable causing a health risk to homeowners, property owners, property managers and the community.

If you are a resident who has been affected by storms and floods, you must:

1. ALWAYS follow the advice of Emergency Services and Council.
2. NOT ENTER PROPERTIES until authorised to do so as many buildings may be structurally unsound and vulnerable to collapse.
3. NEVER enter floodwaters on foot or attempt to cross or drive through swollen rivers, streams or floodwaters!
4. NOT walk through flooded streets because of the risks of debris and the tops of drain manholes may have been lifted by floodwaters.

What you need to know to manage property health and safety risks on your property

If your property has been damaged by storms, floods or heavy winds, you must take a number of safety precautions to protect yourself, your family and the community including being aware that asbestos could be present and what you need to do to manage asbestos and other risks safely.

1. CONTACT COUNCIL OR EMERGENCY SERVICES if you are unsure of health and safety procedures. They can provide valuable information including for asbestos while Council may have an asbestos management plan in place for you to follow.
2. DO NOT ENTER A PROPERTY OR STRUCTURE if there appears to be structural damage. Seek advice from suitably qualified person(s) which may include (but not limited to) structural engineers, utility companies, emergency services and the like. If the damaged structure is presumed to be asbestos-containing, a licenced asbestos assessor and/or licenced asbestos removalist should also be contacted prior to reoccupation.
3. ASBESTOS must be managed and disposed of safely in accordance with regulations.
4. NOT JUST FIBRO HOMES CONTAIN ASBESTOS – More than 3000 different types of asbestos-containing products were manufactured and can be found in one-in-three Australian homes including brick, weatherboard, fibro and clad homes.
5. KNOW WHAT MATERIALS TO LOOK FOR – Identify asbestos-containing materials by visiting our extensive Asbestos Products Database.
6. KNOW WHERE TO LOOK FOR ASBESTOS IN HOMES – Download our free Residential Checklist for Homeowners. 
7. LEARN WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TO MANAGE ASBESTOS SAFELY! Check out our extensive list of fact sheets including WORKING SAFELY WITH ASBESTOS AROUND THE HOME. 
8. IF ASBESTOS IS PRESENT ON YOUR PROPERTY, WE RECOMMEND ONLY USING LICENCED ASBESTOS REMOVALISTS – While it may be legal in NSW and in some other states and territories for homeowners to remove small amounts of asbestos themselves, (e.g. up to 10 square metres in NSW), we recommend you avoid the risk and leave asbestos work to the experts by only using licenced asbestos removalists. 

 

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Additional potential hazards you must be aware of during floods and storms include:

1. Electrical hazards – Live power lines may be down or solar panels may be active. If electrical lines are down, ensure the electricity supply has been turned off by a licensed electrical contractor or energy supplier.
2. Structural damage to properties – Homes, commercial properties and other structures (such as sheds, garages and stock sheds etc.) may be unstable and at risk of collapse.
3. Displaced structures – Sometimes floodwaters can displace entire homes and sheds as well as broken and stockpiled pieces of asbestos commonly known as fibro. Fibro can be in many forms, including the form of flat or corrugated sheets which, if damaged by storms and floods, can be broken into smaller pieces and washed away in floodwaters.
4. Building rubble and flood debris – Asbestos-containing materials, sharp edges, protruding nails and broken materials including glass and timber can be found in building rubble, damaged structures and flood debris.
5. Corrugated asbestos roofs – Do not walk on roofs made of asbestos as they may collapse. The roofing is already old so erosion, heavy rains, winds and tree branches may have caused damage to the roof as well as the walls of the structure.
6. Hazardous materials – Always wear PPE when dealing with hazardous materials including asbestos and dispose of PPE according to regulations. If you find yourself in an emergency situation and are unable to access full PPE, at the bare minimum, always wear heavy-duty rubber gloves, sturdy footwear and a P2 mask when handling wet asbestos. To find out what you need to know about PPE including how to wear it and dispose of it safely, download our PPE fact sheet here.
7. Sewerage services – Disruptions can cause health risks by contaminating water, properties and the environment.
8. Damaged trees – Trees can be uprooted and damaged during high winds and heavy rain causing falling branches.
9. Displaced animals – Animals can become dangerous when displaced or traumatised.
   • Creepy crawlies – Just like humans, other creatures will try to escape the storm and water so be aware that snakes and spiders may be taking refuge among or under debris. Always be cautious during the clean-up and if required, contact WIRES. 
   • Wildlife – Many native animals and birds will require specialised handling and MUST be rescued (or supervised) by trained wildlife rescuers. If you find wildlife in distress contact WIRES or phone 1300 094 737 or call Emergency Services in your area.
   • Pets and farm animals – Avoid approaching animals in distress. Even domestic pets can become aggressive if frightened. There are a number of animal rescue organisations that can help. Contact your local Council or Vet who should be able to advise you on who to contact. In an emergency contact Emergency Services or Police.

 

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ASBESTOS IN PROPERTIES IMPACTED BY STORMS & FLOODS

Key Facts

• All damaged or eroded asbestos-containing materials must be treated with caution according to regulations.
• When wet, damaged asbestos-containing materials are not considered as dangerous as when they are dry.
• Asbestos-containing materials should remain wet. Once dry they can cause a high risk to health if fibres are released that can become airborne and be inhaled. They can contaminate surfaces, tools, vehicles and land requiring professional remediation.

What are the property types that may contain asbestos?

• Asbestos can be found in any home or other domestic or farm-type structure built or refurbished prior to 1990 including garages, sheds and fences.
• For commercial and non-residential properties such as shops or public buildings, asbestos can be found in any building constructed or refurbished prior to December 2003.
• Commercial and non-residential properties should have an asbestos register. Contact the person responsible for managing the register (the property owner, manager or contractor) for information on the locations of asbestos risks and hazards.

Where could asbestos be lurking on your property?

• Asbestos may be in many forms including flat or corrugated sheets (fibro) used for walls, ceilings, roofing or in products such as pipes, electrical conduit, eaves, wall and floor tiles and other structures including garages and garden sheds. 
• In coastal regions, often “weekenders or shacks” were constructed from flat and corrugated (fibro) sheeting including external and internal walls and ceilings.
• In rural and regional areas, in addition to homes; fences, storage sheds, chook sheds, outhouses and stock sheds may have been constructed from asbestos. For more information download the Fact Sheet FS3: SAFE PRACTICES FOR RURAL & REGIONAL HOMEOWNERS & FARMERS.
• In Commercial and Non-Residential Properties asbestos continued to be used in multiple locations prior to 31 December 2003. Types of commercial & non-residential properties may include any structure that is not a private dwelling. For detailed information on safe management of Asbestos in Commercial and Non-Residential properties download the handbook.
• Naturally Occurring Asbestos (NOA) may also pose a risk in rural and regional areas where NOA has been identified if disturbed or uncovered during floods and heavy rains. If you live or work in a region where NOA is known to occur, download our NOA handbook and resources here.

Do you live in a community housing property?

If you live in a community housing property that has been damaged by storms or floods and may contain asbestos, contact community housing in your state or territory for assistance.

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Managing asbestos hazards caused by storms and floods

Storms, floods and heavy winds can cause serious damage to properties including homes, commercial and non-residential properties and farm structures.

Whole buildings and even stockpiled asbestos-containing materials (particularly flat or corrugated sheeting commonly known as fibro) can be picked up by floodwaters and moved from one location to another. So, even if your home was built after 1990, it is likely that miscellaneous debris and rubbish including asbestos-containing materials from elsewhere can end up on your property.

Should you find displaced structures and debris containing asbestos on your property, it’s vital that these materials are managed safely and in line with regulations.

Do’s and Don’ts of managing storm or flood-damaged asbestos

The first rule is, if you think a building material, product or debris may contain asbestos, treat it as if it is asbestos and take all the necessary precautions in line with regulations!

WHAT TO DO:

1. CONTACT COUNCIL who may have an asbestos management plan in place for you to follow.
2. IDENTIFY asbestos-containing materials by visiting our extensive Asbestos Products Database.
3. ENSURE ALL ELECTRICITY IS TURNED OFF before starting work where water may contact electrical installations.
4. ENSURE YOU KNOW WHERE DAMAGE may have occurred to asbestos-containing materials that remain in situ (walls etc.) so they can be kept wet before they’re cleaned and sealed.
5. TAKE CARE WHEN CLEANING asbestos-containing materials to avoid damage.
6. CLEAN asbestos-containing materials (walls and other materials) by ONLY using garden hoses or by hand. If cleaning by hand, use light pressure and detergent which may be in a trigger spray bottle or bucket.
7. CHECK THE SURFACE you are cleaning regularly to ensure it’s not being damaged in the process.
8. AFTER CLEANING, SEAL ALL IN SITU asbestos-containing materials. For cracks in fibro apply PVA glue with a paintbrush or use paint to seal cracks and surface areas.
9. KEEP DAMAGED asbestos-containing materials wet before and during removal to minimise asbestos cross-contamination.
10. ENSURE YOU ONLY REMOVE BROKEN ASBESTOS-CONTAINING MATERIALS such as small pieces that have broken from structures or found in debris.
11. SEPARATE DAMAGED asbestos-containing materials from all other debris.
12. WEAR PPE – Full PPE is best but, if you find yourself in an emergency situation and are unable to access full PPE, at the bare minimum, always wear heavy-duty rubber gloves, sturdy footwear and a P2 mask when handling wet asbestos. PPE and P2 masks can be purchased from hardware stores (if available). To find out what you need to know about PPE including how to wear it and dispose of it download our fact sheet here.
13. NOTE: WE RECOMMEND USING LICENCED ASBESTOS REMOVALISTS to remove any amount of asbestos.

WHAT NOT TO DO:

1. DON’T BREAK asbestos-containing materials.
2. DON’T WALK ON ASBESTOS ROOFS as they may collapse.
3. DON’T USE ORDINARY DUST MASKS, handkerchiefs or bandannas instead of P2 masks.
4. DON’T USE ABRASIVE CLEANING products or materials on surfaces. Only use detergent and a cloth, sponge, a soft brush, broom or standard garden hose.
5. NEVER USE HIGH-PRESSURE WATER CLEANERS OR WATER BLASTERS to clean roofs and other asbestos-containing materials such as internal or external walls.
6. NEVER USE POWER TOOLS such as drills or sanders.
7. DON’T USE ABRASIVE TOOLS to clean asbestos.
8. DON’T SCRUB asbestos materials – this can loosen the surface and release fibres.
9. DON’T REMOVE ASBESTOS MATERIALS altogether unless absolutely necessary.
10. NEVER DISPOSE of asbestos materials in skips or ANY Council bins (red, green or yellow) or include it with rubbish or items for curbside collection.
11. DON’T BURY asbestos-containing materials.
12. DON’T BURN storm and flood debris as it may contain asbestos materials that can become friable and fibres can become airborne and be inhaled.
13. NEVER DUMP asbestos-containing materials – FINES APPLY.

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How to manage asbestos risks safely

If you suspect asbestos is on your property or in flood and storm debris, always assume asbestos is present and treat it as if it is asbestos by following these basic steps to ensure it’s managed safely following storms and floods.

Step 1: Contact your local Council

• Council may have special provisions or requirements in place for property owners to manage asbestos after storms or floods.

Step 2: Conduct a basic asbestos risk assessment of your property

• It doesn’t have to be complicated. As a guide, look around your property. The greater the damage and the greater the quantity of asbestos that is damaged or in need of demolition (such as roofs, walls, fences and sheds), the greater the potential hazard and the greater the risk to health when damaged and dry.

Step 3: Cleaning up asbestos after storms or floods

• Follow the Do’s and Don’ts (as above)
• Keep Asbestos Containing Material (ACM) debris wet by lightly hosing with water or spraying with a mixture of 5 parts water and 1 part PVA glue (if available). If PVA glue is not available, ensure it remains wet at all times.
• Once wet, seal or cover debris with a tarp or sheet, or similar. Keep the cover moist and pegged to the ground or weighed down to keep it in place.

Step 4: Sealing asbestos that remains in situ

• For asbestos-containing materials still in their original form and location, seal any small fractured or exposed edges with paint or PVA glue.

Step 5: Managing removal and demolition of asbestos-containing materials

• For small amounts of asbestos-containing materials such as pieces that may have been broken during floods or storms; these may be managed by property owners provided you contact Council first and follow their instructions and safety precautions.
• For large amounts of asbestos-containing materials (such as a building or shed), you can have it tested by an occupational hygienist or a licenced asbestos assessor. Contact The Australian Institute of Occupational Hygienists, The Asbestos and Hazardous Materials Consultants Association (AHCA)  or find a licenced asbestos assessor here. 
• For removal and demolition of large amounts of asbestos-containing or friable materials; ONLY use licenced asbestos removalists who will come to your property to demolish and dispose of the materials safely and in accordance with regulations. Find a licenced asbestos removalist here. 
• PLEASE NOTE: While it may be legal in NSW and in some other states and territories for homeowners to remove small amounts of asbestos themselves (e.g. up to 10 square metres in NSW), we recommend you avoid the risk and leave all forms of demolition and removal to the experts and only use a licenced asbestos removalist.
  

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What to do if disposing of small amounts of asbestos

While we recommend only using licenced asbestos removalists to remove and dispose of asbestos-containing materials following storms or floods, if you need to remove and dispose of small amounts of asbestos, you do need to take special precautions including avoiding causing further damage to the materials and ensuring the asbestos waste is disposed of safely and correctly.

EQUIPMENT REQUIRED:

Note: The equipment used will be dependent on availability.

1. If possible, erect some sort of signage to alert others that asbestos-containing materials are being removed to restrict access to the area.
2. At a minimum, restrict access to the area by closing gates or doors.
3. A bucket of water, watering can or garden hose to wet down broken or damaged pieces.
4. PPE – at the bare minimum always wear a P2 mask, heavy-duty rubber gloves, sturdy footwear and if possible, protective overalls with long sleeves and trousers. See our PPE fact sheet FS4 for a complete list of items and instructions.
5. Heavy-duty 200um thick plastic – this may come in sheets, rolls or bags. If bags, you will need to ensure you have two bags to double bag the contents. In some cases, this may not be available. Some government fact sheets have suggested using tarps to wrap asbestos waste if heavy-duty plastic is unavailable.
6. Duct tape or gaffer tape – to seal the contents inside the plastic or tarp.
7. A thick marking pen and/or a waterproof label that you can write on “Caution – Asbestos Waste. Do not open or damage bag. Do not inhale dust.”

What to do when collecting and disposing of small pieces of asbestos:

1. Remove all jewellery including watches.
2. If not already wet, wet the pieces of asbestos with water or spray them with a mixture of 5 parts water and 1 part PVA glue (if available).
3. Put on your PPE gear as per instructions in our PPE fact sheet FS4.
4. Pick up the pieces and place them into the heavy-duty plastic bags or on plastic sheeting (200um) that has been cut large enough to wrap all the pieces in and be sealed.
5. Once all the pieces have been collected in the plastic bag or placed on the plastic sheet, remove your PPE and place it in the plastic bag or on the sheeting.
6. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
7. If using a plastic bag, tape or knot the top of the bag and place it inside a second empty plastic bag and knot or securely tape the opening to seal it closed.
8. If using plastic sheeting or tarps – carefully wrap the contents and tape to seal. Then rewrap the package in a second piece of plastic or tarp and tape to seal.
9. Clearly label the bag or package “Caution – Asbestos Waste. Do not open or damage bag. Do not inhale dust.”
10. Wash your hands again thoroughly with soap and water.
11. DO NOT DISPOSE of asbestos-containing materials in ANY Council bins (red, green or yellow), in skips or include it with rubbish or items for curbside collection.
12. CONTACT COUNCIL or Emergency Services for information on disposal as asbestos waste.

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IMPORTANT: DISPOSING OF ASBESTOS WASTE

Instead of risking transporting it yourself to an approved asbestos waste facility, when disposing of all asbestos waste including small amounts that are wrapped and sealed (as per above), we recommend contacting a licenced asbestos removalist who can come and collect the asbestos waste and dispose of it correctly.

In NSW a Licenced Asbestos Removalist will arrange WasteLocate Asbestos Waste Tracking (as outlined by the EPA for specific quantities) and ensure the materials are double wrapped in 200um plastic and sealed with heavy-duty duct tape (or the like) to ensure the materials are accepted at an EPA authorised waste disposal facility.

Why use a licenced asbestos removalist to collect the asbestos waste?

• Not all Councils have waste facilities authorised to accept asbestos waste.
• There is a likely chance you will have to pay tip fees by weight with some facilities charging a minimum fee.

What are the potential risks if asbestos materials are not wrapped correctly?

• Contaminating the vehicle you’re travelling in (yours, a friends or a hired vehicle),
• Contaminating the route you are travelling on; and,
• Running the risk that the tip will not accept asbestos if it’s not wrapped correctly.

What to do when demolishing or disposing of large amounts of asbestos

1. Where whole buildings or large structures contain asbestos (walls, roofs, bathrooms etc.), we recommend using an occupational hygienist or a licenced asbestos assessor or a licenced asbestos removalist to conduct a site inspection and test for asbestos.
2. If the building or structure is to be demolished, only use a licenced asbestos removalist. You can find one here. 

IMPORTANT: If the asbestos is in powder form or can be crumbled, pulverised or reduced to powder by hand pressure when dry, it must be removed by an asbestos removal contractor with a friable asbestos licence.

Managing Naturally Occurring Asbestos (NOA) following heavy rain and floods

If you live in a region where NOA has been identified, contact your local Council for instructions on how to manage exposed NOA safely and download our free Naturally Occurring Asbestos (NOA) Guide for further information and step-by-step instructions.

Need more information on hazards after storms or floods?

• For important information about working with asbestos read Safe Work Australia’s Model Code of Practice: How to safely remove asbestos July 2020.
• SafeWork NSW has produced a fact sheet: Asbestos – cleaning and/or removing asbestos-containing materials after storms and floods
• The Queensland Government has produced a fact sheet: Cleaning or removing asbestos after floods and storms
• The Queensland Government has produced a short video (5 minutes and 32 secs): Safe work procedure – storm and wind damage cleanup  

 

Dedication to the late Carol Klintfält OAM and the late Serafina Salucci OAM

To mark 10 years of service to the community, in 2021, the asbestosawareness.com.au website has been dedicated to honour the work of two extraordinary women; the late Mrs Carol Klintfält OAM and the late Mrs Serafina Salucci OAM in recognition of their selfless acts of courage in advancing awareness of the dangers of asbestos to help save lives.

Even when faced with their own dire circumstances battling malignant mesothelioma with the knowledge that there is no cure; both Carol Klintfält and Serafina Salucci were selfless in their undeniable acts of courage, determination and commitment to advancing national awareness of the dangers of asbestos.

Although both battled the disease that would eventually take them from their loved ones, they remained focussed on a single minded goal – to help save the lives of others.

The commitment of these inspirational women in campaigning to increase awareness of the dangers of asbestos has had a poignant, far-reaching and positive impact in Australia’s fight against asbestos-related diseases. And although we will never know how many lives have been saved as a result of their mission, we know there will have been many.

Their resolve to this purpose remains a beacon of hope and an inspiration to all associated with asbestosawareness.com.au and the National Asbestos Awareness Month Campaign.

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Carol Klintfält OAM (9 August 1949 – 7 November 2014)

In 2006, Mrs Carol Klintfält OAM was 57-years-old when she was diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma. Carol hadn’t heard of the disease and could barely pronounce its name. She was also unaware that the average survival time following diagnosis was just 10-12 months.

When Carol learned that it was a terminal cancer caused from inhaling asbestos fibres as a young woman in the 1970s, the diagnosis came as a devastating blow to the mother of three and her family.

It’s understandable that most would choose to spend every precious moment that remained with their loved ones when faced with such dire circumstances. However, having learned that she’d been exposed to asbestos fibres while working with an architect who refurbished hotels and again when she worked with fibro sheeting while doing home renovations; Carol became a staunch campaigner for Asbestos Awareness warning Australians of the dangers of asbestos to prevent others from putting their lives and the lives of loved ones at risk.

Carol established support groups for asbestos victims and often spoke of the devastating impact asbestos and mesothelioma had had on her and her family at Asbestos Awareness events. At every opportunity Carol persistently emphasised the significance of the public education campaign in alerting Australians to the dangers of asbestos particularly when renovating.

Carol was deeply respected and admired by all who knew her for her resolve and courage. It was her tremendous courage in sharing her story about how she developed mesothelioma that’s had such a poignant and far-reaching effect in saving the lives of many Australians.

From the moment of her opening speech at the launch of Australia’s inaugural Asbestos Awareness campaign in 2011, year-after-year Carol continued to share her personal story with Australians via the media to broadcast the life-saving Asbestos Awareness message to reach millions of Australians every year. Even when Carol felt tired or was undergoing treatment, she continued to muster her strength to campaign about the dangers of asbestos to the very last.

When speaking about the importance of the Asbestos Awareness campaign, Carol said, “The benefits that I gained from sharing my story with the media is a feeling of accomplishment. Anywhere, anytime, if I can, I will spread the word of the dangers of asbestos in our society. Having been diagnosed with Mesothelioma from exposure to asbestos, I feel very angry and very disillusioned about what has happened to me and my family.

“Everyone should learn about the dangers [of asbestos]. Forget about ‘this won’t happen to me’ mentality. It can happen to anyone. I will stand on an orange box anytime and talk about the dangers and my story. It gives me a sense of self satisfaction that I am able to give something back and hopefully do something positive to prevent others from going through what I have gone through.”

On 7 November 2014, at the age of 65, Carol Klintfält, a dearly loved wife and mother of 3 adoring children, lost her 8-year battle with malignant mesothelioma.

On 8 June 2015, Carol Klintfält was honoured with an Order of Australia in the Queen’s Birthday Honours Roll for her dedication to increasing awareness of the dangers of asbestos to help save lives.

 

Serafina Salucci OAM (8 November 1969 – 6 October 2019)

In 2007, Mrs Serafina Salucci OAM was a seemingly healthy 37 year-old mother of four young children when she was diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, a terminal cancer caused from inhaling asbestos fibres.

Exposed to the fibres as a small child while playing in her family’s backyard during the building of a garage constructed of asbestos cement sheeting (Fibro), Serafina knew better than most the dire consequences of Australian’s being unaware of the dangers of disturbing asbestos in and around homes.

Although she was told she had just two years to live, Serafina fought mesothelioma and became a respected campaigner who increased community awareness of the dangers of asbestos at every opportunity. 

Serafina founded support groups, represented a number of asbestos-related disease organisations at events and successfully lobbied for the establishment of a federal body dedicated to providing a national focus on asbestos issues.

Serafina was a regular speaker at Asbestos Awareness events and would welcome the opportunity to tell her story to the media to alert as many Australians as possible of the risks associated with disturbing asbestos when renovating.

Serafina was a determined woman with a beautifully calm and courageous approach to life and her situation. Everyone who knew Serafina admired her courage in facing and fighting the horrendous asbestos-related disease.

Serafina’s determination and courage in battling the disease was matched only by her passion and resolve to protect others in the community from asbestos risks.

What makes Serafina’s efforts so remarkable is that although battling terminal illness and in the face of her own imminent mortality, almost from the time of diagnosis she became an inspirational campaigner for Asbestos Awareness. At every opportunity Serafina actively promoted the dangers of asbestos through the Asbestos Awareness campaign to help educate Australians about the dangers of asbestos to help save lives.

The significance of Serafina’s service to the community in preventing the suffering of others through her tireless commitment to the education of Australians about the dangers of asbestos has been an extraordinary, selfless act of courage that cannot be measured.

When speaking about her work in promoting asbestos risks through the Asbestos Awareness campaign, Serafina said, “This disease has happened to me for a reason – I’ve had to make a positive out of what is a devastating situation.

“They say prevention is better than cure, and I cannot think of any other situation that is more relevant than with mesothelioma. To this day, prevention is the closest thing we have to a cure, and this is why Asbestos Awareness and education is so crucial and important.

“It would be impossible to quantify how many lives the Asbestos Awareness Campaign has saved. It’s been a privilege to have been involved.”

On 26 January 2018, Serafina Salucci OAM was awarded an Order of Australia in the Australia Day Honours Roll in recognition of her courage and commitment in her mission to save the lives of others.

On 6 October 2019, at the age of 49, Serafina Salucci OAM succumbed to the disease she’d fought hard for 12 years leaving her loving husband and four cherished children.

 

As a general guide the cost of lawful disposal by licenced asbestos removalists will be included in overall costs.  However, if you are planning on removing and disposing of asbestos-containing materials yourself, there are strict regulations governing the disposal of asbestos including:

• It is illegal to dump asbestos-containing materials in Australia – large fines and remediation costs can apply to those responsible.
• Asbestos waste can only be disposed of at specific landfills located across Australia.
• To arrange to dispose of asbestos, first contact your local council to ensure you are aware of council requirements and to locate the nearest lawful waste landfill site.
• If your council is unable to assist, visit the Asbestos Safety & Eradication Agency’s disposal database to locate your closest asbestos disposal facility. Some state regulators also provide this service.
• Ensure asbestos waste has been wetted, wrapped in 200um thick plastic, and sealed with tape before it is transported to a landfill site that may lawfully receive the waste.
• It must be clearly labelled as “asbestos waste”.
• It must be transported in a covered, leak-proof vehicle.
• It is wise to keep copies of receipts from landfills where asbestos was taken as councils or the regulators may require you to produce these receipts as proof of proper disposal.

IMPORTANT: The management, removal and disposal of Naturally Occurring Asbestos (NOA) in rural or regional Australia is regulated by strict guidelines.  Before working with or removing NOA, download our free Naturally Occurring Asbestos – Asbestos Management Plan Guide to ensure NOA is managed safely and in accordance with regulations.

 

Safely transporting asbestos

In some states and territories, waste transporters are required to report the movement of more than 100 kilograms of asbestos waste or more than 10 square metres of asbestos sheeting to their regulators. If you are involved with transporting, or arranging the transport of asbestos waste contact your regulator for more information.

• Australian Capital Territory – Asbestos Taskforce ACT
• New South Wales – Asbestos NSW
• Northern Territory – Asbestos NT
• Queensland – Asbestos Queensland
• South Australia – Asbestos South Australia
• Tasmania – Asbestos Tasmania
• Victoria – Asbestos Victoria
• Western Australia
  • Healthy WA – Asbestos
  • Asbestos in the Workplace – WA

For information relating to transporting Naturally Occurring Asbestos, please refer to our NOA Guide.