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 Safety Queensland (WHSQ) conducted a statewide compliance campaign, auditing 182 businesses operating in buildings constructed before 1990. This campaign emphasised the importance of having:
- Asbestos registers to document the presence and location of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).
- Asbestos management plans outlining procedures to manage or remove asbestos safely.
Key Findings
The audits uncovered 23 non-compliance issues and resulted in 151 improvement notices. Inspectors ensured that all non-compliance issues were rectified during their site visits.
Improper Cleaning Practices and Legal Implications
One of the significant findings was the improper use of high-pressure water hoses to clean asbestos cement roofs, fences, and walls. In Queensland, this practice is illegal under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 due to the risk of releasing harmful asbestos fibres into the air.
Over the past year, there have been ten prosecutions related to asbestos safety breaches, many of which involved high-pressure water cleaning. These breaches can result in substantial fines, costly clean-ups, and serious legal consequences for those responsible.
Strategic Plans to Prevent Asbestos Exposure
Queensland’s efforts are part of broader initiatives, including:
- The National Strategic Plan for Asbestos Awareness and Management 2019-2023.
- The Statewide Strategic Plan for the Safe Management of Asbestos in Queensland 2022-2025.
Both aim to eliminate asbestos-related diseases by minimising exposure to asbestos fibres. Regular audits and inspections are crucial steps toward achieving these goals.
The Role of Asbestos Audits
For landlords, construction teams, and businesses, asbestos audits in Queensland are not just about compliance—they are about ensuring health and safety. These audits can:
- Identify asbestos-containing materials through thorough asbestos inspections and testing.
- Provide detailed asbestos reports to guide management or removal.
- Help develop legally required asbestos management plans and asbestos registers.
Even if you believe your building does not contain asbestos, engaging a licensed asbestos assessor is essential for compliance.
Why Choose Global Asbestos Audits?
Global Asbestos Audits is a trusted provider of specialised asbestos services across Queensland and throughout Australia. We can help you navigate the complex compliance requirements, including:
- Asbestos inspections to identify and assess ACMs.
- Development of tailored asbestos management plans and registers.
- Safe and compliant asbestos removal to eliminate risks.
- Expert guidance to ensure adherence to the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and codes of practice.
Act Now to Protect Health and Compliance
If your workplace or property was built before 1990, don’t leave asbestos safety to chance. Asbestos audits in Queensland are a proactive way to safeguard occupants and avoid costly fines or legal action.
Contact Global Asbestos Audits today to arrange a professional asbestos inspection and ensure your property meets all compliance standards. Together, we can create safer workplaces and contribute to a future free from asbestos-related diseases.