Asbestos may be contained in fibro products made before 1987. It is a hazardous material with devastating health impacts. It should be removed by a licensed operator and disposed of according to legal guidelines. It is illegal to re-use, recycle or illegally dump asbestos products.
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Asbestos
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Warning!
Asbestos should never be put in your recycling or waste bin. Asbestos is toxic and should always be handled by a licensed professional. If you are unsure about the presence of asbestos on a site for renovation, construction or demolition, organise a licensed professional to inspect the site and safely manage the disposal of any asbestos found.
Why Dispose Responsibly?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral rock that was mined in Australia from the 1940s to late 1980s and used in a variety of materials. Made up of tiny fibres, that if disturbed can be released into the air and may be inhaled into the lungs causing devastating health effects and even death. Importantly only fibro products made before 1987 contain asbestos. Asbestos is classified as a hazardous material and must be handled according to regulations and laws in each state. It is illegal to re-use, recycle or illegally dump asbestos products.
Disposal Options
Asbestos removal companies can be hired to remove asbestos waste from site and dispose of it in a safely. If the amount of asbestos materials or products to be removed is less than 10m2 then an asbestos removal certificate is not required. But strict guidelines must still be adhered to. For removal of bonded asbestos materials or products of more than 10m2 someone with a Class B removal certificate must be used. Loosely (friable) bound materials and products must only be removed by someone who has a Class A removal certificate.
Asbestos can only be disposed of at specified landfill sites, so it is important contact the landfill beforehand to find out if this material is accepted and any special requirements for delivery. Many landfill operators require a booking to be made, as careful handling and greater supervision of the waste is required to prevent the release of dust.
What Happens When It’s Removed?
All asbestos waste must be wrapped in two layers of plastic no less than 200µm (0.2mm) thick before being transported. Once at an approved landfill it will be buried. The waste is compacted by machinery only after it has been covered with a layer of general waste.
