What should I do if I find asbestos?
Asbestos is generally only a risk if the material is cracked, broken or deteriorated. In many cases asbestos-containing building materials in the home, unless broken, are safe and can be left in place.
Do's and Don't's Surrounding the Removal of Asbestos
DO
- Wear a half-face filter respirator available from safety supply stores when removing asbestos as well as disposable overalls, hats and gloves.
- Work with asbestos cement products in well ventilated areas and wet down material before commencing work.
- Use only non-powered hand tools.
- Use only a licensed asbestos remover for loosely-bound asbestos.
- Consider your neighbours when removing asbestos. Any works carried out without appropriate precautions may be investigated.
- Dispose of asbestos immediately taking all precautionary measures.
DO NOT
- Remove asbestos on a windy day.
- Walk debris through a building.
- Leave asbestos products around the garden.
- Use a household vacuum cleaner.
- Dispose of asbestos in a normal rubbish bin, skip or during Council hard rubbish collections.
For more information on removing asbestos contact Department of Human Services - Environmental Health Unit, (03) 9637 4156 or www.health.vic.gov.au/environment
For a list of asbestos removalists in your area or for complaints about removal by a licensed contractor contact Worksafe Victoria on 1800 136 089 or www.workcover.vic.gov.au
For a list of asbestos disposal sites contact the Environmental Protection Authority on (03) 9695 2722 or www.epa.vic.gov.au
Reviewed: 10 August 2009
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