Asbestos Diseases Research Institute

The Asbestos Diseases Research Institute (ADRI) is a national body located in the Bernie Banton Centre, Concord NSW that conducts research into asbestos-related diseases and provides support services for people affected by asbestos-related diseases in NSW.

Founded in 2009 in response to the increasing incidence of malignant mesothelioma, ADRI is dedicated to tackling the silent and increasing epidemic of asbestos-related diseases.

ADRI’s primary objectives are to:

• improve the diagnosis and treatment of asbestos-related disease; and,
• contribute to more effective measures to prevent exposure to asbestos.

In 2021, the ADRI was designated by the World Health Organisation as a Collaborating Centre for the Elimination of Asbestos Related Diseases. 

More information about ADRI can be found at adri.org.au

National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases (NCARD)

The National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases (NCARD) was established as a national cooperative research centre in 2007 in Perth, Western Australia by the Commonwealth government. NCARD continues as a National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) recognised Centre of Research Excellence (CRE).

The NCARD’S aim is to enable the best Australian scientists, clinicians and researchers in the field, using the best available modern technology, to work cooperatively to prevent, monitor, treat, and/or cure asbestos cancers in the shortest realistic timeframe. 

More information about NCARD can be found at ncard.org.au

The Australian Asbestos Network (AAN)

The Australian Asbestos Network (AAN) is part of a larger group of researchers comprising medical, epidemiological and public health researchers studying the impacts of asbestos on the community. AAN has developed an online resource to provide the community with information about asbestos; its historical legacy, current impacts on Australian society and the ways in which we can all help to minimise its harmful effects on our health and wellbeing under the leadership of Emeritus Clinical Professor Bill Musk from the University of Western Australia.

More information about AAN can be found at australianasbestosnetwork.org.au

Support Groups Around Australia

For many years a number of groups across Australia have been dedicated to creating community awareness of the dangers of asbestos and providing invaluable support for people affected by asbestos-related diseases.  Annually on National Asbestos Awareness Day (the last Friday in November), these groups come together and hold memorial services to remember the many who have lost their lives as a result of asbestos-related diseases.

• National
  • The Australian Asbestos Network (AAM) is part of a larger group of researchers comprising medical, epidemiological and public health researchers studying the impacts of asbestos on the community. AAN has developed an online resource to provide the community with information about asbestos; its historical legacy, current impacts on Australian society and the ways in which we can all help to minimise its harmful effects on our health and wellbeing.
  • National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases (NCARD) is a national cooperative research centre located in WA. The NCARD enables effective cooperative research to prevent, monitor, treat, and/or cure asbestos cancers in the shortest realistic timeframe. 
• New South Wales
  • Asbestos Diseases Foundation Australia Inc (ADFA) 
  • Asbestos Diseases Research Institute (ADRI) – is a national body based in NSW that conducts research into asbestos-related diseases and supplies support services for people affected by asbestos-related diseases in NSW
  • Asbestos Diseases Support Group, Wagga Wagga and District, PO Box 8190 Wagga Wagga NSW 2650, T: (02) 6922 3826, E: ingewebster@bigpond.com
• Queensland
  • Asbestosis and Mesothelioma Association of Australia (AMAA) formerly Asbestosis and Mesothelioma Support Group (AMSG) also operates in NSW.
  • Asbestos Disease Support Society (ASSS) – also operates nationally
• South Australia
  • Asbestos Diseases Society of South Australia (ADSSA)
  • Asbestos Victims Association SA
• Tasmania
  • Asbestos Free Tasmania Foundation (AFTF)
• Victoria
  • Asbestoswise
  • Asbestos Council of Victoria / Gippsland Asbestos Related Diseases Support Inc.
• Western Australia
  • Asbestos Diseases Society of Australia Inc (ADS)
  • The Australian Asbestos Network (AAN)
  • National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases (NCARD) 
  • Reflections Through Reality

Embedded asbestos fibres irritate lung tissue around them, causing a number of diseases. Asbestos related diseases can take many years to develop. Most diseases will not become apparent for at least 10 years  after exposure to asbestos and more commonly 15-20 years. Some diseases, such as mesothelioma may take up to 40 or more years to develop.

Asbestos-Related Disease Statistics

Malignant mesothelioma is the most common of the asbestos-related diseases monitored in Australia.  This is because there is a strong causal association between asbestos exposure and malignant mesothelioma. Since 2012, annually approximately 800 cases of newly diagnosed malignant mesothelioma cases have been reported with the annual number of mesothelioma deaths increasing from 416 in 1997 to 724 in 2019.

Malignant Mesothelioma

Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is a cancer arising from the lining (mesothelium) of the thoracic and abdominal cavities. The disease is usually advanced before symptoms appear, making an early diagnosis and effective treatment very difficult. The average survival time after diagnosis is only 10-12 months. A small exposure to asbestos can be enough to trigger the cancer, however a relatively small percentage of people exposed to asbestos fibres will eventually develop mesothelioma. There usually is a lag of 20-50 years after the first asbestos exposure before the disease is diagnosed. Each year in Australia, between 700 and 800 people are diagnosed with the rare and aggressive cancer. 

Malignant mesothelioma almost uniquely caused by asbestos exposure was seldom diagnosed until the 1960’s.  Since 2006 more than 600 Australians were diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma each year and experts have estimated that there were at least another 1,350 Australians with lung cancer caused by asbestos.  A tragic consequence of highly intensive use of asbestos and its products in Australia in the previous century, it is estimated that these figures will continue to rise in the coming decades.  

MM is a disease that develops several years after the first exposure to asbestos fibres.  However, the disease is currently also diagnosed in young adults incidentally exposed to asbestos fibres as children. The fact that approximately 1/3 of older Australian homes built or renovated before the mid 1980’s contain asbestos, reinforces the significance of Australians undertaking adequate preventive measures.  The prognosis of MM patients is poor and almost all will experience severely debilitating symptoms. MM is only partially responding to the current forms of oncologic therapy and currently there is no curative treatment for the disease. It is therefore critical that we make a substantial investment in medical research to find better means of understanding the specific biology of MM in order to try to achieve better clinical outcomes for people affected by the disease.

Pleural Disease

Inflammation of the outer lining of the lung, the pleura (where asbestos fibres are deposited). The pleura stiffens and thickens widely (diffuse thickening) or in patches (plaques), and can fill with fluid.

Asbestosis

This is scarring of the lungs by inhalation of large quantities of asbestos fibres: the lung becomes inflamed and scarred (stiff) making breathing progressively difficult. Symptoms include tightness in the chest, dry cough, and in the later stages, a bluish tinge to the skin caused by lack of oxygen. Asbestosis is usually seen in former asbestos miners, asbestos manufacturing workers and insulation workers, and usually takes a decade or more to develop.

Lung Cancer

Exposure to asbestos fibres greatly increases a person’s risk of developing lung cancer, particularly if they are also a smoker.

Australian Mesothelioma Registry

In August 2020, The Australian Mesothelioma Registry published their Mesothelioma In Australia 2019 Report  which reported 724 deaths and 659 Australian’s newly diagnosed with mesothelioma.

It noted of the 1015 patients who completed the voluntary asbestos exposure questionnaire between 2010-2019, 12.2% classified asbestos exposure through occupational exposure alone, with 35.9% classifying non-occupational exposure and 51.9% selected both occupational and non-occupational exposure.  It reported that:

• Undertaking home renovations accounted for the possible exposure of 43% of patients 
• Living in a house undergoing renovations accounted for the possible exposure of 39% of patients 
• Living in a house made of fibro built between 1947 and 1987 accounted for the possible exposure of 10% of patients 
• Living in the same home as someone with a job where they were exposed to asbestos and who came home dusty, accounted for the possible exposure of 14% of patients

National Asbestos Exposure Register (NAER)

The National Asbestos Exposure Register (NAER) was established by the Australian Government to record information for members of the community who may have been exposed to asbestos. If you think you may have been exposed, or for more information visit Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency. 

REFERENCES

Australian Mesothelioma Registry Reports

Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma, Asbestos Diseases Research Institute, July 2013

Olsen NJ, Franklin PJ, Reid A, de Klerk NH, Threlfall TJ, Shilkin K, Musk B, 5-Sept-2011, “Increasing incidence of malignant mesothelioma after exposure to asbestos during home maintenance and renovation”, Medical Journal of Australia, 195 (5): 271-274.

Park EK, Hyland R, Yates D, Thomas PS, Johnson A. Prevalence of self-reported asbestos exposure during home renovation in NSW residents. Respirology Supplement 1, Poster 143. March 2010.

Park EK, Hyland R, Yates D, Thomas PS, Johnson A. Asbestos exposure during home renovation in New South Wales. Medical Journal Australasia, September 2013; 199 (6): 410-413.

I am buying an older house. How do I know if it contains asbestos?

One in three homes built or renovated before 1990 will most likely contain asbestos in some form or another. To confirm if asbestos is present you can have your home assessed by a qualified occupational hygienist or licenced asbestos assessor.

Is there a phone number I can call for Asbestos enquires?

If you live in NSW you can call the 1800 Asbestos Hotline (1800 272 378).  The hotline was established by SafeWork NSW to provide free advice and guidance on asbestos-related issues and is a central point of contact for all asbestos enquiries in NSW.

If you live in all other states and territories, you can call the relevant authority in your state.

Mr Fluffy & Loose-Fill Asbestos

For information on loose-fill asbestos ceiling insulation material installed by Mr Fluffy during the 1960s and 1970s in some homes in NSW and the ACT, please contact NSW Fair Trading Loose Fill Asbestos Task Force or the ACT Asbestos Task Force.

Are houses with asbestos roofs safe?

If asbestos cement products are in sound condition and not disturbed, they do not pose a significant health risk. Replace roofing that is weathered, structurally unsound and no longer waterproof. A number of people have died or suffered serious injuries after falling through asbestos cement roofs. Never walk on an asbestos cement roof. They are brittle.

Some asbestos products have a low percentage of asbestos and are therefore safe for me to handle. Is that true?

Treat all products containing any amount of asbestos as potentially dangerous if disturbed. A licenced asbestos removalist should remove all asbestos containing material (ACM).

Can I bury asbestos on my property?

No. It is illegal – and poses a health risk. It must be taken to a facility that can lawfully receive asbestos waste. 

Where and how do I dispose of asbestos sheeting?

Contact your council or the relevant authority in your state and territory for waste facilities that accept asbestos in your area.  They can provide information on transporting and disposing of asbestos waste safely and legally. To locate your closest asbestos disposal facility visit the Asbestos Safety & Eradication Agency’s disposal database.  

I am renovating my bathroom, kitchen and laundry. Should I be concerned about asbestos?

Asbestos products were often used in wet areas of older homes, such as bathrooms, kitchens and laundries. If in doubt, have the material tested by a qualified professional and/or removed by a licenced asbestos removalist.

If I am demolishing a fibro shed, what should I do?

In all states and territories (except the ACT) homeowners are permitted to remove a maximum of 10 square metres of bonded asbestos. However, if there is more than 10 square metres of fibro or other asbestos-containing materials you MUST use a licenced asbestos removalist. If there is less than 10 metres, refer to Safe Work Australia’s Model Code of Practice: How to safely remove asbestos July 2020.

Where do I find an asbestos removalist, and how can I be sure that they are licenced?

Most states and territories in Australia have an online database of licenced asbestos removalists and occupational hygienists.

• ACT
  • Access Canberra provide a database of licenced Asbestos Assessors and Removalists
• NSW
  • Asbestos & Hazmat Removal Contractors Association (AHRCA)
  • The Asbestos and Hazardous Materials Consultants Association (AHCA)
  • SafeWork NSW Asbestos and Demolition Licence Holder Database 
  • NSW residents can also call the 1800 Asbestos Hotline (1800 272 378) for free advice and guidance on asbestos-related issues in NSW.
• NT
  • WorkSafe NT provides a database of licenced asbestos removalists
• QLD
  • Demolition & Asbestos Industry Association (DAIA
  • WorkSafe QLD Licenced Asbestos Removalist Database
• SA
  • Government of South Australia list of licenced Asbestos assessors and removalists via asbestos.sa.gov.au
• TAS
  • WorkSafe Tasmania
• VIC
  • Demolition & Asbestos Industry Association of Victoria Ltd 
  • WorkSafe Victoria – Service Provider Directory via asbestos.vic.gov.au
• WA
  • Government of Western Australia does not provide a database of licenced removalists but provides details on how to check a valid licence

Asbestos in Aboriginal Communities Project

Many Aboriginal communities contain fibro houses and buildings and it is essential to provide information regarding health risks, safe behaviours around asbestos containing materials, where it can be found and who to contact.

Aboriginal land is susceptible to illegal dumping of asbestos because it is often located in remote areas or under developed urban parcels of land.

The Asbestos in Aboriginal Communities Project developed a range of resources including a Checklist, Flyer and Poster to help reduce asbestos exposure and illegal dumping. These materials were developed by the Heads of Asbestos Coordination Authorities in consultation with NSW Aboriginal Land Council, NSW Aboriginal Housing Office, Local Aboriginal Land Councils and Aboriginal Housing Providers to understand the asbestos issues affecting Aboriginal communities.

What Are the Legal Requirements When Working with Asbestos?

Federal, state and territory governments have regulations in force to protect you, your family, the environment and the community when you are working with asbestos. Legal requirements relating to asbestos include:

• It is illegal to dispose of asbestos waste in domestic garbage bins
• It is illegal to re-use or recycle asbestos products
• It is illegal to dump asbestos products – locate your closest asbestos disposal facility
• It is illegal to use power tools that make asbestos fibres airborne
• It is illegal to waterblast asbestos cement sheets (fibro)
• Only licenced asbestos removalists can remove asbestos of 10 square metres or more
• Only licenced Friable Asbestos Removalists are able to handle or remove any amount of friable asbestos
• Licenced removal work has to be notified to SafeWork NSW 7 days prior to removal
• A worksite permit must be issued to remove friable asbestos
• All licenced contractors have to be able to give you a copy of their licence, you should ask to see their licence when hiring an asbestos removalist to ensure they have a current licence
• 10 square metres is equivalent to the size of a typical bedroom wall in an average home or about the size of a small bathroom or an outside toilet or shed
• All licenced contractors must be able to give you a copy of their current licence – ask to see their licence when hiring an asbestos removalist
• All asbestos removal is to be in accordance with  Safe Work Australia’s Model Code of Practice: How to safely remove asbestos July 2020.
• It is illegal to bury asbestos on your own property
• All asbestos must be legally disposed of at a lawful landfill site. Not every landfill site is authorised to accept asbestos. To find a site near you contact the relevant authority in your state or territory or visit the Asbestos Safety & Eradication Agency’s database.
• Your council may also have policies regarding the removal of asbestos so visit your council’s website to find out what’s required
• NSW residents and tradies can call the 1800 Asbestos Hotline (1800 272 378) for asbestos enquiries.

Important Safety Facts To Know When Working With Asbestos

• PROTECTION: There are a number of safety precautions you will need to take including wearing approved PPE and RPE such as protective clothing, the correct mask (not every mask is safe) or breathing apparatus.
• REMOVAL:
  • To learn more information about working safely with asbestos read Safe Work Australia’s Model Code of Practice: How to safely remove asbestos July 2020.
  • Asbestos – A guide for householders and the general public.
  • To learn about specific council regulations contact your local council
• DISPOSAL: To locate your closest asbestos disposal facility visit the Asbestos Safety & Eradication Agency’s disposal database
• REMEMBER: If the asbestos is in powder form or can be crumbled, pulverised or reduced to powder by hand pressure when dry (don’t try this), it MUST be removed by an asbestos removal contractor with a friable asbestos licence – Class A.

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:

• FS1: Fact Sheet 1 Working Safely With Asbestos Around The Home 
• FS2: Fact Sheet 2Safe practices for homeowners repairing or removing small amounts of asbestos materials Provides instructions on the equipment you will need and the instructions on how to manage the process safely.
• FS3: Fact Sheet 3 Rural, Regional & Farming
• FS4: Fact Sheet 4 PPE & RPE
• T2: A Tradie’s Guide To Safe Practices In Managing Asbestos In Residential Properties
• Asbestos Management Handbook For Commercial & Non-Residential Properties
• Naturally Occurring Asbestos Guide

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!

For details about the regulations in your state visit

• 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

While in all states and territories (except the ACT) homeowners are permitted to remove a maximum of 10 square metres of bonded asbestos; we recommend that you play it safe and use a licenced asbestos removalist. And if you are planning on removing asbestos yourself, you MUST take the appropriate safety precautions.

However, if you need to remove more than 10 square metres, you MUST either hire a qualified asbestos removalist or, in some states you are required to obtain a bonded asbestos removal licence which requires you to attend an appropriate training course run by TAFE or a registered training organisation.

IMPORTANT: Any loose or friable asbestos MUST be removed by a qualified asbestos removalist and cannot be removed by the homeowner.

For more information please refer to Safe Work Australia’s Model Code of Practice: How to safely remove asbestos July 2020.

Is it Safe to Remove Asbestos Yourself?

If you must remove it yourself, you MUST take precautions! Removing asbestos can be a dangerous and complicated process. We recommend using licenced professional removalists who will also dispose of it in accordance with government regulations.

The important point is this: if you need to work with materials that may contain asbestos, you must work so there is minimal release of fibres, dust or small particles from the asbestos materials.

It is recommended that if you are considering removing or working with asbestos yourself, you undertake a training course to ensure you have the training to do it safely.

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.

DIY Guide To Removing Asbestos

If you are thinking about removing even a small amount of asbestos yourself, to protect your health and the health of those around you including children, at the very minimum you should meticulously follow ALL of the steps listed on this website and in Safe Work Australia’s Model Code of Practice: How to safely remove asbestos July 2020.

For instructions on how to remove asbestos safely download our Fact Sheet 1 or 2.

Working with Asbestos

• 

  Work Safely

  • Cover up and wear PPE (Personal Protection Equipment).
    You should wear the appropriate Australian Standards-approved PPE (Personal Protection Equipment) including respirator or dust mask recommended for the job (see manufacturers’ information when selecting and using this equipment).
    Make sure your mask has two straps to hold it firmly in place. Don’t use masks that only have one.
    Also wear a hat, gloves, disposable coveralls with a hood, and safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes.
  • Do not eat, drink or smoke in the work area as you may inhale or eat dust.
    Wash your hands and face with soap and water before meal breaks and when finished work for the day.
  • 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 waterblast or scrub with a stiff broom or brush.
    It is illegal to waterblast asbestos cement sheets. If the material has been accidentally waterblasted or has suddenly deteriorated in some way, you should call a licenced asbestos removal contractor.
  • Wet gently with water.
    When removing asbestos cement sheets, use a pump spray to lightly dampen the sheets and keep the dust down. Remember: it is illegal to waterblast asbestos cement materials.
  • 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 an asbestos cement sheet. Instead remove the entire sheet and replace it with a non-asbestos product.
  • Don’t drop fibro sheets.
    Remove asbestos sheets carefully. Lower them to the ground, don’t drop them, to minimise breakage.
• Let People Know
  Plan to have family members and pets away from the work area until after the clean-up. Talk to your neighbours and anybody else who may be affected by your removal and disposal of asbestos cement materials.
• Prepare The Area
  • Outside
    • Lay plastic sheeting under the work area to prevent any dust contaminating the ground. Use 200um thick plastic sheeting or bags; these must not be made from recycled materials or re-used for any other purpose;
    • Move children’s play equipment away from the work area;
    • Close windows and doors and seal vents to stop dust getting into the house; ask neighbours to do the same;
    • Seal off other places where dust can get in, such as under doors.
  • Inside
    • Close doors and use tape and plastic sheets to seal the work area off from areas inside the house to prevent contamination of other areas.
    • Use 200um thick plastic sheeting or bags; these must not be made from recycled materials or re-used for any other purpose;
    • Tape plastic over the floor;
    • Cover vents, air conditioning and central heating ducts;
    • Remove soft furnishings, rugs and curtains from the work area, or seal them in plastic if they can’t be moved;
    • Lay plastic sheeting under the work area to prevent any dust contaminating the flooring. Use 200um thick plastic sheeting or bags; these must not be made from recycled materials or re-used for any other purpose;
    • Move children’s play equipment away from the work area;
    • Seal off other places where dust can get in, such as under doors.

Cleaning Up

• Stack & Wrap
  Stack asbestos cement material carefully on plastic sheets, double wrap and tape, while still in the work area. Use 200um thick plastic sheeting or bags; these must not be made from recycled materials or re-used for any other purpose. Clearly label as asbestos waste.
• No Skidding
  When stacking sheets, do not skid one sheet over another, as this will release fibres.
• Remove immediately.
  Do not leave sheets lying about where they may be further broken or crushed by people or traffic. Remove all asbestos waste as soon as you can.
• Clean up everything.
  Make sure that no dust leaves the work area on shoes, clothing, tools etc. Put used disposable overalls and masks in bags for removal with other asbestos waste.
• Vacuum cleaners
  Do not use house-hold vacuum cleaners. Use only vacuum cleaners that comply with AS/NZ 60035.2.60 that are fitted with appropriate attachments to reduce the release of asbestos fibres and dust.
• Avoid dry sweeping which stirs up dust.
  Dampen dust with a “mist” of water from a spray pump pack.

Safe Transport & Disposal

Dispose of all asbestos waste promptly. For safety reasons always:

• Dampen all asbestos waste and double wrap in plastic and tape. Use 200um thick plastic sheeting or bags; these must not be made from recycled materials or re-used for any other purpose. Clearly label as asbestos waste.
• Transport all asbestos waste in a covered, leak-proof vehicle.
• Dispose of asbestos waste at a landfill site that may lawfully receive the waste. It is illegal to re-use, recycle or illegally dump asbestos products, or to put asbestos waste in domestic rubbish bins.
• For more information about legally transporting and disposing of asbestos waste, contact the relevant authority in your state or territory.
  • 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

Other Things To Keep Your Eye On

• Hail damage to your roof or any asbestos cement product can be as bad as waterblasting. Call a licenced asbestos removal contractor immediately if there has been heavy hail.
• Watch for weathering. Surface weathering can lead to the release of asbestos fibres from roofs. Weathered asbestos products can release fibres when disturbed, such as when asbestos roof or gutters are removed. All asbestos roofs should be sealed before they are removed to reduce the risk of asbestos fibres being disturbed.
• Fire damage. Fire damaged property containing asbestos product could result in loose asbestos fibres. A licenced asbestos removal contractor must be used for cleaning up.
• Keep guttering (and downpipes) in good repair. As asbestos fibres collect in gutters after heavy rain, guttering and downpipes should be in good repair on buildings with asbestos roofing. Downpipes should not run into garden beds. Wet, clean and seal roof gutters before removing them.
• What about insulation? Insulation materials in house roof spaces are usually fibreglass, rockwool, paper or foam. Very few houses in NSW have loose asbestos insulation in the roof space. If you suspect that your property may have asbestos insulation in the roof space, contact NSW Fair Trading or the Asbestos Taskforce in the ACT.
• When to coat asbestos products. Many fibro walls are painted and there is no risk associated with painting bonded asbestos. Just make sure that you do not sand the surface before painting.

Remember
Coating is not considered necessary on health grounds. Surface coatings, however, may provide an extra level of protection against the possibility of asbestos fibres being disturbed and becoming airborne and can extend the life of asbestos products. Special sealants only should be used on asbestos material, as ordinary paints do not bond well to the surface of weathered asbestos cement products. Seek professional advice and use a professional painter, where possible. Do not sand surfaces before painting. Damaged roofs must be sealed before removal.

Check If Your Asbestos Roofing Needs To Be Replaced

Roofing that has weathered to the point where it is structurally unsound and no longer waterproof should be replaced. If you decide to coat your roof, have a professional do it.
See Asbestos Disposal and Asbestos Legalities for detailed information about the safe disposal of asbestos.