Asbestos News

The question of whether you can paint over asbestos-containing materials or not is complex and requires careful consideration of safety protocols and legal requirements. This comprehensive guide explores the possibilities, risks, and proper procedures for painting asbestos surfaces while maintaining optimal asbestos safety during renovations. Understanding Asbestos Surfaces Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) appear in many forms…

Walking on asbestos roofing is potentially an extremely hazardous activity that requires careful consideration of personal safety and public health implications. Whether you’re a property owner or maintenance worker, understanding the risks and proper safety protocols is essential before considering any interaction with asbestos roofing materials. Understanding the Risks Asbestos roofing materials were commonly used…

The visual similarity between asbestos-containing materials and modern cement fibre products presents a significant challenge in building material identification. Understanding these differences is crucial for property owners, renovators, and construction professionals, given the severe health implications of asbestos exposure. The Challenge of Visual ACM Identification While asbestos-containing materials and modern cement fibre products may appear…

Understanding the distinction between bonded and friable asbestos is crucial for the health of property owners, managers, and occupants. This differentiation impacts safety protocols and determines the necessary measures for asbestos management and removal procedures. Understanding Asbestos Types Asbestos materials are categorised into two primary classifications: bonded (non-friable) and friable asbestos. These classifications are based…

For property owners planning demolition, renovation, or construction where ACMs have been identified or are suspected, the asbestos clearance certificate is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance. This article explores the significance of an asbestos clearance certificate and why it’s essential to any asbestos removal process. What is an Asbestos Clearance Certificate? An asbestos clearance…

In recent years, Australia has faced a new occupational health challenge that many experts are comparing to the asbestos crisis of the past. This emerging threat is crystalline silica, a natural mineral found in materials like sand, stone, and concrete. As awareness grows about the dangers of crystalline silica exposure, workers, employers, and policymakers must…

Asbestos, a material once widely used in construction, has become a significant public health concern in Australia. Strict regulations govern the management and removal of asbestos, but interestingly, these regulations can vary slightly from one state or territory to another. This article explores the reasons behind these variations in asbestos law across Australia and the…

Managing asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in buildings is a critical issue that demands careful attention and precise planning. Developing and implementing an asbestos management plan is vital to this process. This article explores the responsibilities of various stakeholders in managing asbestos and the importance of an effective asbestos management plan. The Role of Building Owners Building…

Accurate asbestos identification is crucial for ensuring safety in both residential and commercial properties. Given the potential health risks associated with asbestos exposure, correctly identifying asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) is essential to prevent harmful exposure. Global Asbestos Audits is a trusted name in the industry, offering expertise in asbestos identification and management, particularly in the commercial…

When faced with the presence of asbestos in a building, many property owners and managers might wonder, “How difficult is it to remove asbestos?” The truth is that asbestos removal is a complex, dangerous, and highly regulated process that should never be undertaken lightly—or attempted as a DIY project. The potential health risks, legal implications,…

When discussing asbestos and its impact on health and safety, one crucial term frequently comes up: ACM. But what does ACM mean, and why is it important to understand in residential and commercial contexts? This article will define ACM and explore the significance of recognising and managing asbestos-containing materials to protect human health. Defining ACM:…

The importance of an asbestos inspection cannot be overstated when it comes to maintaining a safe and compliant commercial environment. Asbestos was previously used extensively in construction before its health implications were understood. It is now recognised as a significant health hazard. For commercial property owners and managers, understanding the importance of regular asbestos inspections…

Any substance containing asbestos fibres is an asbestos containing material (ACM). ACM is now recognised as a significant health hazard. This article explores the nature of ACM, its common forms, and the importance of proper identification and management in Australia. Understanding asbestos containing material Asbestos containing material in Australia is defined as any material that…

In Australia, the identification and reporting of asbestos are crucial steps in managing the risks associated with this hazardous material. An asbestos audit in Australia is a key component of this process, ensuring that properties are thoroughly assessed and that appropriate measures are taken to protect occupants and workers. This article outlines the standard procedures…

In Australia’s commercial property sector, the role of an asbestos assessor is crucial for ensuring workplace safety and regulatory compliance. These skilled professionals play a vital part in identifying, assessing, and managing asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in buildings. This article explores the key responsibilities of an asbestos assessor and their importance in maintaining safe commercial environments.…

As a property manager in Australia, ensuring the safety of tenants and workers is paramount. One crucial aspect of this responsibility is managing the risks associated with asbestos. Testing for asbestos is a critical step in this process, with significant implications for property managers across the country. Why is testing for asbestos important? Asbestos poses…

The importance of asbestos removal can not be overstated, as it ensures the safety of occupants in buildings where asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are present. This necessity becomes even more pronounced in heritage-listed buildings, where preservation and safety must be balanced. One of the most notable recent examples is the extensive asbestos removal project at the…

When we mention Division 6, we’re not referring to the latest lottery draw. In occupational health and safety, particularly concerning asbestos, “Division 6” is a critical term. Division 6 audits, sometimes called destructive investigations or intrusive surveys, are essential for identifying all visible and concealed asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) before construction or renovation work begins. Why…

Ensuring the safety of commercial premises following asbestos removal is paramount. An asbestos clearance certificate is a crucial document that signifies that a site has been thoroughly inspected and deemed safe for reoccupation. This certificate is not just a formality but a critical aspect of compliance and safety. Here, we examine the requirements and procedures…

Asbestos, historically widely used in construction for its durability and heat resistance, is now known to pose significant health risks. If you’re concerned about asbestos in your home or workplace, an asbestos test is crucial in ensuring safety. But where can you buy an asbestos testing kit, and how should you use it safely? This…

When it comes to ensuring the safety of your workplace in Queensland, conducting a thorough asbestos inspection is essential. If you’re based in Brisbane, finding a reliable service for an asbestos inspection is crucial to maintaining a safe environment for employees and visitors. This article will delve into the importance of professional asbestos inspections in…

In Australia, workplace safety regulations are stringent, particularly regarding hazardous materials like asbestos. Maintaining an asbestos register is critical to managing asbestos in the workplace. This article will explain what an asbestos register is, why it’s crucial, and how often it needs to be updated to ensure compliance with Australian regulations. What is an Asbestos…

Managing asbestos in the workplace is critical for ensuring safety and compliance with Australian regulations. This article explores how to effectively handle asbestos and the importance of a detailed asbestos management plan, considering the various codes of practice across different states and territories. Recognising Asbestos in Workplaces In Australia, anyone who manages or controls a…

Asbestos is now known to be an extremely hazardous substance that can pose significant health risks if disturbed. Therefore, identifying its presence accurately is crucial for safety. This guide explores the most reliable methods for asbestos testing, focusing on asbestos sampling and analysing the collected samples in a NATA-accredited laboratory. Why Asbestos Testing is Essential…