Asbestos — Stop, Do Not Touch
Asbestos — Stop, Do Not Touch
If a building is pre-1990 and you are about to disturb it, assume asbestos until proven otherwise. Where it hides, and the one rule that matters: stop, do not touch.
Where you find it (pre-1990 builds)
- Fibro cement sheeting — walls, eaves, fences
- Vinyl floor tiles and their backing, old lino
- Pipe lagging and insulation
- Textured coatings, some roof sheeting and gutters
- Switchboard backing boards, behind wall tiles
If you suspect it — stop
- Stop work and keep everyone out of the area
- Do not cut, drill, sand, water-blast or break it
- Do not take it home or tip it in a ute load — it is regulated waste
Who can remove it
| Non-friable (bonded), up to 10 m² | May be removed with proper controls + training (check your state) |
| Friable, or larger jobs | Licensed removalist — Class A (friable) / Class B (non-friable) |
| Clearance | Independent licensed assessor before the area is reoccupied |
Reference only — not a substitute for asbestos-awareness training. Removal is often a notifiable activity; check your state WHS regulator and use a licensed removalist for any friable material.
Sources: Safe Work Australia — asbestos · state WHS regulators · model WHS Regulations (asbestos)
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