Asbestos Removal News

SafeWork NSW is fast-tracking the five-day asbestos removal work notification period for immediate clean-up of asbestos debris from storm-damaged properties in north-east NSW.
Those living in the Ballina, Byron Shire, Kyogle, Lismore and Tweed local government areas will have their assessments fast-tracked to ensure the quick removal of asbestos-containing material.
SafeWork NSW Executive Director, Peter Dunphy said residents should seek information on the potential risks of being exposed to asbestos and how to manage it safely

“Flood-affected homes may contain asbestos materials which need to be safely managed and removed so that the health of the community is protected,” said Mr. Dunphy.
“As the State Emergency Service assesses the damage and residents begin to clean-up or repair properties, we want them to be aware of the dangers.
“Under usual cinrcumstances, a five-day waiting period is required before asbestos removal work can commence to enable SafeWork to be aware of the dangers.
“Give the significance of the natural disaster and the need to urgently remove material that may affect the health of the community, we have prioritized these assessments and waived the five-day asbestos removal work notification timeframe.
“We hope this decision will help people to get their lives back to normal sooner.”
The following measures are recommended during clean-up of storm-damaged properties which may contain asbestos:

• Avoid disturbing asbestos material and keep any asbestos debris wet until it can safely be removed
• Be aware of asbestos materials in your surroundings. A person conducting a business or undertaking demolition of residential premises must ensure that all asbestos that this likely to be disturbed by the demolition is identified and safely removed.
• Use only qualified asbestos removalists licensed by SafeWork to ensure asbestos is safely and properly removed
• Licensed asbestos removalists can be found at safework.nsw.gov.au

All storm-damaged asbestos-containing material that needs to be removed must be notified to SafeWork by the licensed removalist.