Understanding Asbestos Clearance in Commercial Properties
Asbestos clearance is critical for ensuring the safety of commercial properties in Australia. Due to the hazardous nature of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), strict regulations govern its removal, disposal, and post-removal verification. If asbestos is removed in a commercial building, professional asbestos clearance is required to comply with Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations and to eliminate health risks to workers and occupants.
Steps in the Asbestos Clearance Process
1. Asbestos Identification and Risk Assessment
Before any asbestos removal occurs, a licensed asbestos assessor conducts a comprehensive inspection to identify asbestos materials within the property. This includes:
- Sampling and testing of suspected materials
- Risk assessment to determine the severity and likelihood of asbestos exposure
- Development of an asbestos removal control plan (ARCP)
2. Safe Removal of Asbestos Materials
Licensed asbestos removalists follow stringent safety protocols to eliminate ACMs. The process includes:
- Setting up an exclusion zone to prevent unauthorised access
- Using protective equipment such as respirators, disposable suits, and gloves
- Employing wet removal methods to reduce airborne fibres
- Double-bagging and sealing asbestos waste before transport
- Transporting and disposing of waste at an approved asbestos disposal facility
3. Decontamination and Cleaning
After removal, decontamination is crucial to eliminate residual fibres. This process includes:
- High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuuming of surfaces
- Wiping down and sealing affected areas
- Air monitoring to assess fibre levels
4. Air Monitoring and Clearance Inspection
A licensed asbestos assessor must monitor air quality during and after asbestos removal. Once removal is complete, a clearance inspection ensures the site is safe for reoccupation. The clearance process involves:
- Visual inspection to confirm all asbestos materials have been removed
- Airborne fibre testing to ensure fibre levels meet Safe Work Australia standards
- Issuance of an Asbestos Clearance Certificate if the site passes all safety checks
Regulatory Compliance for Commercial Properties
In Australia, asbestos clearance for commercial properties must comply with:
- Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulations 2011
- National Code of Practice for the Safe Removal of Asbestos
- State-specific asbestos laws (e.g., SafeWork NSW, WorkSafe Victoria, and WorkSafe QLD guidelines)
Failure to comply with these regulations can result in legal penalties, business disruption, and health hazards for workers and the public.
Why Professional Asbestos Clearance is Essential
Attempting asbestos removal without a licensed professional poses significant health risks and violates Australian asbestos management laws. Professional asbestos clearance ensures:
- Safe and compliant removal with minimal risk of fibre release
- Proper waste disposal to prevent environmental contamination
- Certified clearance documentation to meet regulatory requirements
Contact Global Asbestos Audits for Expert Asbestos Clearance
Global Asbestos Audits provides comprehensive asbestos clearance services for commercial properties across Australia. Our team of licensed asbestos assessors ensure your site is free from asbestos hazards, compliant with safety regulations, and ready for reoccupation.
Ensure your workplace is safe. Contact Global Asbestos Audits today for expert asbestos clearance.