Asbestos News

Severe weather events such as Cyclone Alfred and recent flooding across Queensland and New South Wales have left a trail of destruction in their wake. As communities begin the long cleanup and rebuilding process, one critical but often overlooked danger emerges: asbestos exposure. In flood-affected homes and buildings, disturbing materials without proper assessment can release…

Recent discoveries of bonded asbestos in landscaping mulch across Canberra have reignited public concern about asbestos safety in Australia. While the situation differs significantly from the infamous “Mr Fluffy” loose-fill asbestos crisis, it has raised an important question: Is bonded asbestos dangerous, and does it need to be removed? The short answer is yes—bonded asbestos…

SafeWork SA has launched a renewed inspection campaign targeting asbestos compliance across South Australian workplaces. The move follows concerning results from a similar initiative last year, which uncovered significant breaches in asbestos safety protocols and resulted in more than 130 improvement and prohibition notices. Widespread Asbestos Non-Compliance in Older Workplaces In the previous audit, SafeWork…

Workplace asbestos exposure continues to have devastating consequences, as highlighted by a tragic case involving several former employees of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). At least four individuals have died following prolonged exposure to asbestos at the broadcaster’s former Melbourne facilities, with more former staff likely to be affected in the years to come. This…

If you own, manage, or plan to work on a building, it’s essential to understand what an asbestos audit involves — especially if the property was built before the 1990s. In simple terms, asbestos audits are highly detailed asbestos inspections that help identify the presence and condition of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Whether you’re maintaining an…

If you’ve encountered the term ACM in a property report, asbestos register, or renovation briefing, you might be wondering — what exactly does it mean? Understanding ACM’s meaning is essential for anyone managing, renovating, or working in older buildings in Australia. ACM Meaning: What Is It? ACM stands for Asbestos-Containing Material. It refers to any…

If you own, manage, or work on a building constructed before the 1990s, there’s a high chance it could contain asbestos. With strict regulations in place to protect health and safety, understanding your responsibilities isn’t just important — it’s legally required. That’s where a professional asbestos consultant becomes essential. An asbestos consultant provides expert guidance…

When it comes to asbestos law, Australia has some of the strictest regulations in the world — and for good reason. Asbestos exposure can lead to serious health conditions, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. An Australia-wide ban on the importation, manufacture and use of all forms of asbestos and asbestos-containing materials took effect on…

Understanding Asbestos Audits in Queensland In Queensland, asbestos audits are a legal requirement for workplaces and commercial properties to ensure the safety of workers and the public. These audits help identify asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) and ensure compliance with strict Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations. A complex framework of legislation, codes of practice, and environmental…

The Importance of an Asbestos Building Survey An asbestos building survey is essential for identifying and managing asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in commercial and industrial properties across Australia. Under Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations, property owners and Persons in Control of a Business or Undertaking (PCBUs) must ensure that asbestos risks are properly assessed and…

Understanding an Asbestos Audit Report An asbestos audit report is a vital document for commercial properties in Australia, ensuring compliance with Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations. Under Australian law, a Person in Control of a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) must identify and manage asbestos risks in workplaces. A licensed asbestos assessor is responsible for…

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…

Many Australian businesses and homeowners are concerned about the potential presence of asbestos in their popcorn ceilings, particularly in commercial buildings and homes built before the 1990s. This distinctive textured ceiling finish, known for its bumpy appearance resembling popcorn, was widely used throughout the 20th century and may contain hazardous asbestos materials. Popcorn Ceiling Composition…

Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) were extensively utilised in Australian roofing construction throughout much of the 20th century, owing to their durability, fire resistance, and cost-effectiveness. Understanding which roofing components potentially contain asbestos is crucial for property owners, builders, and maintenance professionals. Asbestos Containing Corrugated Roofing and Components The most prevalent ACM in Australian roofing systems is…

Crystalline silica is a naturally occurring mineral found abundantly in construction materials such as stone, rock, sand, gravel, and clay. When these materials are processed, silica dust is released into the air as respirable crystalline silica – microscopic particles small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs. This dust poses severe health risks, potentially causing…

Understanding and complying with asbestos removal regulations is crucial for workplace safety in Australia. This comprehensive guide outlines the requirements for asbestos removal work, including licensing requirements, health monitoring obligations, and professional assessment procedures. Licensing Requirements For Asbestos Removal Australian regulations fall under Safe Work Australia’s Code of Practice, which has specific licensing requirements for…

Asbestos-related diseases continue to affect individuals and communities worldwide, highlighting the importance of a collective, global responsibility for asbestos health and safety. In Australia, managing asbestos risks effectively requires robust inspection, testing, reporting, and management systems—all designed to minimise exposure and prevent harm. At Global Asbestos Audits, we live this philosophy daily, offering best-practice asbestos…

Buildings constructed before 1990 in Queensland often contain asbestos, which poses significant health and legal risks if not properly managed. To ensure compliance and safety, asbestos audits in Queensland are critical, particularly for landlords, construction teams, and businesses operating in older properties. Government Compliance Campaigns From 1 August to 31 October 2024, Workplace Health and…

Asbestos commonly found in many older buildings due to its past popularity in construction, poses serious health risks if disturbed. For workplaces, ensuring safety and compliance is essential when asbestos is suspected. Whether you’re a tenant, landlord, or part of a body corporate, here’s what you need to know about addressing asbestos concerns and how…

Australia is taking significant steps to protect workers and consumers from the dangers of crystalline silica, a key component in engineered stone products. Starting from 31st December 2024, a ban will come into effect across all Australian jurisdictions, prohibiting the manufacture, supply, processing, and installation of engineered stone benchtops, panels, and slabs. This regulation aims…

Recent legislative changes in New South Wales have significantly increased penalties for asbestos dumping offences, marking the most substantial amendment to environmental protection laws since 1991. These enhanced penalties reflect the government’s strengthened stance on environmental protection and public safety regarding asbestos disposal. Updated Penalty Framework for Asbestos Dumping in NSW The Environment Protection Legislation…

Potential asbestos exposure requires immediate, measured action based on professional medical and occupational health guidance. Understanding the appropriate steps following possible asbestos exposure can significantly impact health outcomes and legal protections. Immediate Actions Following Potential Asbestos Exposure The immediate priority is preventing further exposure and minimising risk of further asbestos exposure. Exit the area immediately…

The duration of asbestos air sampling varies according to specific monitoring requirements, regulatory standards, and project scope. Understanding the timeframes involved in professional asbestos air sampling is crucial for project planning, ensuring workplace safety, and maintaining regulatory compliance. This article outlines the typical durations for different types of asbestos air sampling and the factors influencing…

The handling and removal of asbestos in Queensland is strictly regulated under workplace health and safety legislation. Understanding these legal requirements is crucial for property owners, contractors, and anyone involved in construction or demolition work. In this article we outline the legal framework governing asbestos removal in Queensland and explain who can legally perform this…