Introduction
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals. It was once used in many products and materials, but it has been banned in Australia since 2003. Asbestos can be found in building materials such as roofing shingles, ceiling tiles, vinyl flooring and insulation boards. In Victoria, the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is responsible for regulating and inspecting activities that involve removing and disposing of asbestos.
In Victoria, the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is responsible for regulating and inspecting activities that involve removing and disposing of asbestos.
The EPA is responsible for regulating and inspecting activities that involve removing and disposing of asbestos. The EPA has published a number of policies on the control of asbestos in Victoria, including:
- The Asbestos Control Policy, which provides a framework to regulate the use, removal and disposal of ACMs (asbestos-containing materials).
- The Asbestos Disposal Guidelines, which provide information on how to safely dispose of ACMs.
In addition to these policies, there is also an Environmental Protection Bylaw under the Environment Protection Act 1970 (EP Act), section 598(2) which requires that you not disturb or remove an ACM without a permit from your local council or another competent authority (such as the EPA).
In certain circumstances, businesses or members of the community may manage asbestos removal. However, a licensed asbestos removalist must still transport and dispose of the asbestos waste.
Asbestos removal is the process of safely removing asbestos from your property. An asbestos removalist can remove asbestos from your home, property or business premises. If you’re planning to demolish or renovate a building, it’s important to know who’s responsible for removing any asbestos-containing materials that may be present.
Asbestos and Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACMs) are regulated under Work Health and Safety laws in Victoria. In certain circumstances, businesses or members of the community may manage asbestos removal. However, a licensed asbestos removalist must still transport and dispose of the asbestos waste safely under Work Health and Safety guidelines as well as meet all regulatory requirements relating to transporting waste materials such as those found on building sites or demolition sites across Victoria
This section explains who regulates asbestos removal work in Victoria including how much control over costs you have when hiring an approved contractor to perform this type of work for you
Section:If you plan to remove more than 10 square metres of bonded asbestos material, or any friable asbestos material, you are required to employ the services of a licensed asbestos removalist.
If you plan to remove more than 10 square metres of bonded asbestos material, or any friable asbestos material, you are required to employ the services of a licensed asbestos removalist.
Bonded asbestos materials are those that are bonded together with a heat-resistant adhesive or cement (e.g., pipe lagging). Friable asbestos is defined as having the capacity to be crumbled or reduced to powder by hand pressure. This means that if you’re removing anything that looks like it has been sprayed on instead of being built into something, then it probably needs to be handled by someone who knows what they’re doing.
Section:The EPA has prepared a document outlining best practice methods for asbestos removal. This document provides information about how to remove different types of asbestos and how to manage the risks involved in that process.
The EPA has prepared a document outlining best practice methods for asbestos removal. This document provides information about how to remove different types of asbestos and how to manage the risks involved in that process.
The EPA is an independent body that works within Australia’s national framework as part of its role in environmental protection, but it does not enforce legislation on its own. Rather, it provides advice and recommendations to government agencies who can then make decisions on whether or not action should be taken.
In Victoria (Australia), the Department of Health and Human Services acts as the lead agency on matters concerning health or safety issues related to asbestos-related materials (ARCMs). They have set up their own site with useful resources including:
- Information about where ARCMs may be found in your property;
- A checklist you can use before beginning any work involving ARCMs;
- Links where further information can be obtained;
- Guidance notes for people who have been exposed directly or indirectly through family members’ exposure during childhood;
Section:The EPA’s document also contains information about what types of materials are classed as asbestos and where they can be found. By checking your property and identifying possible sources of asbestos, you can work out whether a licensed contractor needs to be hired.
Asbestos is a commonly used material that was widely used throughout the construction industry until the mid-1980s. It is made from silicate minerals and can be found in many different places, including:
- Cement sheets
- Insulation boards (commonly called roof tiles)
- Asbestos cement pipes and fittings
If you are unsure if the materials contain asbestos it is best to get a sample tested by an authorised testing facility before undertaking any works
The EPA has a list of accredited asbestos testing facilities, accredited asbestos removalists, accredited asbestos removal contractors and accredited asbestos removal equipment suppliers.
In Victoria there are also local government bodies (such as the City of Melbourne) that have powers to regulate businesses in their areas.
Conclusion
The EPA is responsible for ensuring the safe removal and disposal of asbestos. In Victoria, the EPA has prepared a document outlining best practice methods for asbestos removal. This document provides information about how to remove different types of asbestos and how to manage the risks involved in that process. The EPA’s document also contains information about what types of materials are classed as asbestos and where they can be found. By checking your property and identifying possible sources of asbestos, you can work out whether a licensed contractor needs to be hired.
If you are in doubt does your home or property has asbestos-containing materials and want to find out, do not hesitate to contact our team on: 0475 143 106 or email us on: asbestosgoneandclean@gmail.com!