Comprehensive procedures for Class A and Class B licensed asbestos removal including friable and non-friable materials with full containment, decontamination, and clearance requirements

Asbestos Licensed Removal Safe Work Method Statement

WHS Act 2011 Compliant | Meets Safe Work Australia Code of Practice Standards
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Licensed asbestos removal represents the highest-risk category of asbestos work in Australian construction, requiring specialist qualifications, comprehensive control measures, and strict regulatory compliance. This Safe Work Method Statement provides detailed procedures for Class A removal of friable asbestos and Class B removal of non-friable asbestos exceeding 10 square metres, covering enclosure establishment, negative air pressure systems, wet removal techniques, waste containment, decontamination procedures, and clearance certification requirements. Aligned with the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011 and Safe Work Australia's Code of Practice for the Safe Removal of Asbestos, these procedures ensure maximum protection for licensed asbestos removal workers, building occupants, and the environment during high-risk asbestos removal operations.

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Overview

What this SWMS covers

Licensed asbestos removal encompasses the controlled removal and disposal of asbestos-containing materials that pose the highest exposure risks, specifically all quantities of friable asbestos and quantities exceeding 10 square metres of non-friable bonded asbestos. This highly regulated work category can only be conducted by workers holding appropriate asbestos removal licences issued by state or territory work health and safety regulators, and requires notification to regulators at least five days before work commences. Class A asbestos removal licences authorise the removal of any quantity and any type of asbestos including friable (loosely bound) materials that can be crumbled by hand pressure. Friable asbestos presents the highest exposure risk due to ease of fibre release and includes materials such as sprayed asbestos insulation, asbestos-containing insulation on pipes and boilers, loose asbestos fill insulation, asbestos millboard and paper products, and deteriorated asbestos materials where bonding has failed. Class A removal requires the most stringent control measures including fully enclosed work areas, negative air pressure systems with HEPA filtration, air monitoring, and comprehensive decontamination facilities. Class B asbestos removal licences authorise the removal of non-friable (bonded) asbestos in quantities exceeding 10 square metres, such as asbestos cement sheeting used in walls, roofs, and eaves. While non-friable materials are more stable than friable asbestos, removal activities including cutting, breaking, and handling create significant fibre release potential requiring comprehensive controls. Class B removal typically involves established enclosures with barriers, wet removal techniques, controlled dismantling methods, and decontamination procedures, though the extent of containment may be less stringent than Class A requirements. Licensed asbestos removal operations follow a systematic sequence beginning with regulatory notification, site assessment, and establishment of exclusion zones and enclosures. Physical barriers constructed from heavy-duty polyethylene sheeting create sealed work areas preventing fibre migration to surrounding spaces. Negative air pressure systems using HEPA-filtered air filtration units maintain air pressure differential ensuring air flows into the work area rather than out, with contaminated air filtered through HEPA systems before discharge. Decontamination facilities including airlocks with personal decontamination showers and equipment decontamination areas enable workers and tools to exit the work area without spreading contamination. Removal techniques prioritise minimising fibre generation through wet methods, careful dismantling, and avoiding mechanical breaking where possible. All removed asbestos materials must be immediately wetted, double-wrapped in heavy-duty plastic labelled with asbestos warnings, and sealed for transport to licensed disposal facilities. Following removal completion, comprehensive cleaning of all surfaces using HEPA vacuum cleaners and wet wiping removes residual fibres, followed by visual inspection and clearance air monitoring by independent licensed asbestos assessors to confirm the area is safe for reoccupation. The regulatory framework governing licensed asbestos removal is extensive and strictly enforced. Work must be notified to regulators providing details including removal location, asbestos type and quantity, work duration, names and licence numbers of supervisors and workers, and control measures to be implemented. Regulators may conduct unannounced inspections during removal operations to verify compliance. Upon completion, clearance certificates issued by independent licensed assessors provide documentary evidence that asbestos has been completely removed and the area meets clearance criteria defined in relevant guidance documents.

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Why this SWMS matters

Licensed asbestos removal operations present the highest asbestos exposure risks in construction, with potential fibre concentrations during removal far exceeding those encountered in other asbestos work categories. The strict licensing, notification, and control requirements reflect this elevated risk and the catastrophic health consequences of inadequate controls. Every instance of non-compliant asbestos removal increases the likelihood that workers, building occupants, or the public will suffer fatal asbestos-related diseases decades into the future. The health effects of asbestos exposure are universally fatal once diagnosed. Mesothelioma, an aggressive cancer of the lung and abdominal linings caused almost exclusively by asbestos exposure, has a median survival time of 12 months from diagnosis. Asbestosis, progressive scarring of lung tissue, leads to respiratory failure and suffocation. Asbestos-related lung cancer develops in smokers exposed to asbestos at rates far exceeding either risk factor alone. These diseases have latency periods of 20 to 40 years, meaning workers exposed during removal operations may not develop symptoms until retirement age, by which time treatment options are limited and prognosis is invariably poor. Australian asbestos death statistics underscore why removal operations require maximum control measures. Approximately 700 Australians die annually from asbestos-related diseases, with projections suggesting cumulative deaths will exceed 25,000 between 2015 and 2030. A significant proportion of these deaths involve construction workers exposed during asbestos removal, demolition, or renovation work. Licensed asbestos removal, if conducted improperly, can expose workers to fibre concentrations thousands of times higher than background levels, dramatically increasing disease risk. Regulatory penalties for non-compliant asbestos removal reflect the serious view Australian authorities take of this work. Corporations conducting unlicensed asbestos removal or licensed removal without proper controls face fines exceeding $3 million under Category 1 offences of the WHS Act 2011 involving reckless conduct. Individuals conducting unlicensed removal can face fines up to $300,000 and imprisonment for up to five years. State and territory work health and safety regulators actively prosecute asbestos removal violations, with successful prosecutions regularly reported across all Australian jurisdictions. Beyond statutory penalties, businesses face comprehensive liability exposure from improper asbestos removal. Workers who develop asbestos-related diseases can pursue common law damages claims that may exceed $1 million per claimant, with no limitation period—claims remain viable for 30 years after exposure. Building owners can pursue damages for property contamination, remediation costs, and loss of building use. Neighbouring property owners may claim damages if asbestos fibres migrate from inadequately controlled removal sites. Professional indemnity insurers may deny coverage for unlicensed or non-compliant removal work, leaving businesses to meet claims from their own resources. The operational consequences of non-compliant removal create immediate business disruption. Work stop orders issued by regulators halt all site activities, not just asbestos removal, until compliance is achieved. Buildings may be evacuated and sealed for extended periods while remediation occurs. Licensed asbestos assessors must conduct extensive clearance testing before reoccupation is permitted. Media attention to asbestos incidents creates reputational damage affecting future tender opportunities and client relationships. Principal contractors may terminate subcontract agreements with removalists who breach licence conditions. Licensed asbestos removal also protects the broader community from widespread asbestos contamination. Inadequately controlled removal operations have resulted in asbestos fibre spread to neighbouring properties, public spaces, and suburbs requiring extensive environmental remediation at public expense. Mulch contamination incidents in South Australia and New South Wales involving asbestos-containing materials in garden mulch products demonstrate how removal failures can create far-reaching public health consequences affecting thousands of properties and creating cleanup costs in tens of millions of dollars.

Reinforce licensing, insurance, and regulator expectations for Asbestos Licensed Removal Safe Work Method Statement crews before they mobilise.

Hazard identification

Surface the critical risks tied to this work scope and communicate them to every worker.

Risk register

High-Level Asbestos Fibre Exposure During Removal Activities

High

Licensed asbestos removal generates extremely high airborne fibre concentrations through cutting, breaking, scraping, and handling of asbestos-containing materials. Fibre release occurs at every stage of removal including initial material disturbance, mechanical separation from substrates, breaking materials to manageable sizes for bagging, and transfer of materials to waste containers. Friable asbestos removal creates particularly high fibre concentrations as materials readily crumble releasing millions of fibres into the work area air. Even non-friable bonded asbestos releases substantial fibre quantities when sawn, drilled, or broken during removal. Without comprehensive engineering controls including enclosure, negative air pressure, and wet methods, workers are exposed to fibre concentrations hundreds or thousands of times higher than permissible exposure limits. This hazard is compounded during removal of concealed asbestos such as pipe lagging or ceiling insulation where workers must handle materials in confined spaces with limited ventilation. The consequences include guaranteed asbestos exposure well above levels known to cause fatal diseases, with exposure severity directly correlating with inadequacy of control measures.

Containment Failure Leading to Widespread Building Contamination

High

Licensed asbestos removal relies on physical containment barriers and negative air pressure systems to prevent asbestos fibres escaping the work area and contaminating surrounding building spaces. Containment failure occurs when plastic sheeting barriers are incomplete, poorly sealed, damaged during operations, or removed prematurely before clearance is achieved. Gaps in barriers at floor penetrations, doorways, ceiling joints, or service entries allow fibres to escape. Negative air pressure system failures from inadequate capacity, power interruptions, or equipment malfunction eliminate the pressure differential preventing fibre migration. Workers breaching containment by creating unplanned exits, passing materials through barriers without proper procedures, or removing barriers to improve access compromise the entire containment strategy. The consequences of containment failure are severe—asbestos fibres spread throughout buildings via air conditioning systems, contaminating occupied areas where unprotected building occupants are exposed. Remediation of contaminated buildings requires extensive cleaning, clearance testing, and potential evacuation of occupants, with costs easily reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars for major contamination incidents.

Decontamination Failure Leading to Off-Site Asbestos Spread

High

Workers and equipment exiting asbestos removal work areas carry significant asbestos contamination on disposable coveralls, respirators, tools, and exposed skin requiring comprehensive decontamination before leaving the controlled area. Decontamination failures occur when facilities are inadequate or improperly designed, when workers skip decontamination steps due to time pressure or inconvenience, when water supply for decontamination showers is insufficient, or when supervision does not enforce decontamination protocols. Common failures include workers removing respirators before exiting contaminated areas, inadequate personal shower time failing to remove fibres from hair and skin, tools and equipment removed without HEPA vacuuming and wet wiping, and contaminated disposable coveralls removed outside the designated contaminated area. The consequences extend well beyond the worksite—workers carry asbestos fibres to site amenities, vehicles, and homes, exposing families to secondary contamination. Multiple cases of mesothelioma in spouses and children of asbestos workers resulted from washing contaminated work clothes or contact with contaminated workers before showering. Off-site contamination creates legal liability extending to family members and can result in serious criminal charges if family members develop asbestos-related diseases.

Inadequate Respiratory Protection During Removal Operations

High

Licensed asbestos removal requires the highest level of respiratory protection given extreme fibre concentrations generated during removal. P3 particulate respirators or supplied air respirators (air-line respirators) are mandatory for licensed removal work, yet failures in respiratory protection remain a common cause of worker exposure. Hazards include use of inadequate respirator types such as P2 respirators or dust masks that lack sufficient filtration efficiency, respirators that have not been properly fit-tested to individual workers, damaged respirators with torn or punctured filter cartridges, expired filters beyond their service life, and facial hair preventing effective face seal. Workers may remove respirators while still in contaminated areas due to communication difficulties, heat stress, or eating and drinking needs. Respirator filters can become clogged with heavy dust increasing breathing resistance and causing workers to create gaps to improve airflow. Improper donning creates gaps around the nose, chin, or cheeks that allow unfiltered air to bypass filters. The consequence is that workers believe they are protected while actually breathing contaminated air at levels only marginally reduced from ambient work area concentrations.

Heat Stress in Full PPE During Extended Removal Operations

Medium

Licensed asbestos removal workers wear multiple layers of personal protective equipment including disposable coveralls, P3 respirators or supplied air respirators, gloves, and enclosed footwear while performing physically demanding removal work, often in areas without air conditioning or ventilation. This combination creates severe heat stress risks, particularly during Australian summer conditions or when working in roof spaces, ceiling cavities, or enclosed areas. The non-breathable disposable coveralls trap body heat and prevent sweat evaporation. Respirators restrict airflow and require additional respiratory effort increasing metabolic heat generation. Physical exertion of removal work including climbing, lifting, and manual handling generates significant body heat. The consequences of heat stress range from reduced work performance and increased error rates at mild levels, through heat exhaustion with dizziness, nausea, and confusion at moderate levels, to potentially fatal heat stroke at severe levels. Heat-stressed workers may be tempted to remove protective equipment to cool down, thereby exposing themselves to asbestos. Judgment impairment from heat stress increases likelihood of mistakes such as containment breaches, inadequate decontamination, or unsafe work practices.

Structural Instability During Removal of Load-Bearing Asbestos Materials

High

Asbestos-containing materials including fibro cement sheeting were commonly used as structural elements in Australian buildings, including external wall cladding, internal bracing, and eaves that provide structural support. Removal of these materials can compromise structural stability if adequate temporary support is not installed, if removal sequence is not properly planned, or if interconnected structural elements are not identified. This hazard manifests when removing external asbestos cement wall cladding that provides lateral bracing to building frames, when removing asbestos eaves or fascias that support roof edge loads, when removing internal asbestos partitions that provide bracing to floor structures, or when removing asbestos materials attached to structural steel requiring cutting of bolts or fixings. Structural failure during asbestos removal can occur suddenly with collapse of walls, roof sections, or building elements. Workers may be struck by falling materials, trapped by collapsed structures, or fall from elevated positions when structures give way. The compounding factor is that structural failure within an enclosed asbestos removal area creates mass fibre release as materials are crushed and broken, while simultaneously creating emergency conditions requiring rapid evacuation through contaminated areas.

Control measures

Deploy layered controls aligned to the hierarchy of hazard management.

Implementation guide

Sealed Enclosures with Multiple Barrier Layers and Negative Air Pressure

Engineering

Establish fully sealed work enclosures constructed from heavy-duty polyethylene sheeting creating complete separation between the asbestos removal work area and surrounding building spaces. Install negative air pressure systems using HEPA-filtered air filtration units maintaining pressure differential of at least 5 Pascals, ensuring air flows into the work area preventing fibre escape.

Implementation

1. Survey work area perimeter identifying all penetrations including doorways, windows, service entries, ceiling access points, and floor penetrations that require sealing 2. Install minimum 200 micron heavy-duty polyethylene sheeting covering all walls, ceilings, and floors creating continuous barrier with no gaps 3. Seal all sheeting joins using heavy-duty duct tape with minimum 100mm overlap, applying continuous tape along all seams without gaps 4. Seal all penetrations including light fittings, power outlets, pipes, ducts, and cables using foam, tape, and additional sheeting layers 5. Install decontamination airlock at work area entry point consisting of three chambers (contaminated area, shower area, clean area) separated by plastic sheeting doorways 6. Deploy negative air filtration units (minimum one per 100 cubic metres of work area volume) with HEPA filters rated to remove 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger 7. Position filtration unit exhaust to discharge outside building away from air intakes and occupied areas, using flexible ducting sealed to prevent leakage 8. Establish negative pressure of at least 5 Pascals relative to surrounding areas, verified using pressure gauges or smoke pencils showing air flow into enclosure 9. Install pressure monitoring system with audible alarms activating if pressure differential falls below required level 10. Operate negative air systems continuously throughout removal operations and for 24 hours after removal completion before barriers are removed

Wet Removal Techniques Throughout All Removal Stages

Engineering

Apply continuous water misting and wetting to all asbestos materials throughout removal operations to suppress fibre release. Wet methods reduce airborne fibre concentrations by 90% or more compared to dry removal by preventing fibres becoming airborne and causing fibres to agglomerate and fall rather than remain suspended in air.

Implementation

1. Establish water supply to work area with adequate pressure and volume for continuous wetting throughout removal operations 2. Use amended water containing wetting agents (surfactants) to improve penetration into asbestos fibres and enhance fibre suppression 3. Apply initial wetting to all asbestos materials before any removal activities commence, saturating materials thoroughly 4. Use airless spray systems producing fine mist that penetrates materials without creating excessive runoff or material deterioration 5. Continuously rewet materials throughout removal process maintaining visible moisture on all exposed surfaces 6. For friable asbestos materials, inject water into material before removal to saturate from inside, then apply external misting during removal 7. For bonded asbestos sheeting, thoroughly wet both sides before removal, continuing misting during handling and breaking 8. Establish drainage system to collect runoff water containing asbestos fibres, containing and treating as asbestos waste 9. Wet down all work area surfaces including floors, walls, and equipment at end of each work shift before workers exit 10. Never use compressed air, dry sweeping, or dry brushing which generate high airborne fibre concentrations

Comprehensive Three-Stage Decontamination Facilities

Engineering

Establish comprehensive decontamination facilities enabling workers and equipment to exit the asbestos work area without carrying contamination to clean areas. Three-stage decontamination includes contaminated area where gross contamination is removed, personal shower area where workers shower while wearing respirators, and clean area where workers remove respirators and don clean clothing.

Implementation

1. Construct decontamination airlock consisting of three separate chambers defined by plastic sheeting barriers with overlapping doorways 2. Equip contaminated area (first stage) with HEPA vacuum cleaner, water spray bottles, waste bins for contaminated PPE, and wash-down facilities 3. Require workers to HEPA vacuum coveralls thoroughly while wearing respirators in contaminated area before proceeding to shower 4. Install personal decontamination shower in middle chamber with warm water supply (temperature range 35-40°C) and sufficient pressure for effective washing 5. Require minimum 30-second shower while wearing respirators, thoroughly wetting hair and washing all exposed skin before removing respirator 6. Provide clean area (third stage) with clean coveralls, clean respirators, towels, and storage for personal clothing 7. Only allow respirator removal in clean area after showering is complete, ensuring workers never remove respirators while contaminated 8. Establish tool and equipment decontamination area adjacent to worker decontamination with HEPA vacuum and wet wiping facilities 9. Require all tools and equipment to be HEPA vacuumed and wet wiped before removal from contaminated area 10. Designate supervisor to monitor decontamination area ensuring all workers complete full decontamination sequence without shortcuts

P3 Respiratory Protection or Supplied Air Respirators for All Removal Work

Personal Protective Equipment

Provide the highest level of respiratory protection appropriate for high fibre concentrations generated during licensed asbestos removal. P3 respirators offer higher filtration efficiency than P2 respirators, while supplied air respirators provide maximum protection by supplying clean breathing air independent of work area atmosphere.

Implementation

1. Provide P3 particulate respirators conforming to AS/NZS 1716:2012 with filtration efficiency of 99.95% for particles 0.3 microns or larger 2. Conduct individual fit-testing for each worker using quantitative or qualitative fit-testing protocols before respirator use 3. Maintain fit-test records documenting test method, respirator model, worker name, test date, and pass/fail result 4. Require clean-shaven faces for all workers wearing tight-fitting respirators—facial hair prevents effective seal and eliminates protection 5. For extended removal operations or work in extreme fibre concentrations, provide supplied air respirators with continuous flow or pressure-demand air supply 6. Inspect all respirators before each use checking for filter damage, valve function, strap condition, and seal integrity 7. Replace P3 filters according to manufacturer specifications or when breathing resistance increases noticeably 8. Conduct user seal check every time respirator is donned—positive pressure check by blocking filter and exhaling, negative pressure check by blocking filter and inhaling 9. Prohibit any respirator removal while in contaminated areas including work area and contaminated stage of decontamination facility 10. Only allow respirator removal in designated clean areas after complete decontamination including personal shower 11. Provide spare respirators on site for immediate replacement if respirators are damaged or malfunction during operations

Comprehensive Air Monitoring Throughout Removal Operations

Administrative

Conduct continuous or regular air monitoring throughout asbestos removal operations to verify control measure effectiveness, detect containment failures, and confirm airborne fibre concentrations remain below exposure limits. Air monitoring provides early warning of control measure failures enabling immediate corrective action.

Implementation

1. Engage licensed asbestos assessor or occupational hygienist to design air monitoring program appropriate for removal scope and asbestos type 2. Conduct background air monitoring in adjacent areas before removal commences to establish baseline fibre levels 3. Install personal air sampling pumps on workers during removal operations collecting samples for analysis of breathing zone exposures 4. Position static air sampling pumps at enclosure boundaries to detect any leakage of fibres beyond containment 5. Collect samples at frequency appropriate to removal type—minimum daily for extended operations, continuous for high-risk friable removal 6. Use phase contrast microscopy (PCM) for rapid on-site fibre counting providing results within hours 7. Conduct transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis for definitive fibre identification and confirmation of clearance 8. Establish action levels (typically 50% of exposure standard) triggering enhanced controls if exceeded 9. Immediately cease work and investigate control measure failures if monitoring indicates exposure standard exceedance 10. Document all monitoring results including sample location, date, time, fibre concentration, and any corrective actions taken 11. Maintain monitoring records for minimum 30 years as part of workers' exposure documentation

Strict Work Notification and Regulatory Compliance Procedures

Administrative

Comply with all mandatory notification, licensing, and regulatory requirements for licensed asbestos removal operations. Notification ensures regulators are aware of removal activities and can conduct inspections to verify compliance, while licence verification ensures only qualified workers conduct high-risk removal work.

Implementation

1. Submit removal notification to relevant state or territory work health and safety regulator minimum five days before removal commences 2. Include all required notification details: work location address, asbestos type and quantity, removal start and completion dates, name and licence number of removal supervisor, names and licence numbers of all removal workers, description of removal methods and controls 3. Verify all supervisors hold current Class A or Class B asbestos removal supervisor licences appropriate for work scope 4. Verify all workers hold current asbestos removal worker licences and have completed required training units 5. Maintain licence copies on site available for regulator inspection throughout removal operations 6. Display notification number and regulator contact information at work site entry points 7. Notify building owners and occupants of removal operations, expected duration, and any access restrictions 8. Coordinate with other contractors on site to ensure removal operations do not affect their safety 9. Maintain notification compliance records including submission confirmation, regulator communications, and any inspection reports 10. Do not commence removal until notification period has elapsed and any regulator conditions have been met 11. Notify regulator of any significant changes to notified details including work scope changes or timeline extensions

Independent Clearance Inspection and Certification Before Reoccupation

Administrative

Following removal completion and comprehensive cleaning, engage independent licensed asbestos assessors to conduct clearance inspections and air monitoring confirming all asbestos has been removed and the area is safe for reoccupation. Clearance certification provides documentary evidence of successful removal and regulatory compliance.

Implementation

1. Do not remove enclosure barriers or allow reoccupation until independent clearance is obtained 2. Engage licensed asbestos assessor who is independent from the removal contractor to conduct clearance inspection 3. Conduct comprehensive HEPA vacuuming of all surfaces within removal area including floors, walls, ledges, and equipment 4. Perform wet wiping of all surfaces using disposable cloths that are discarded as asbestos waste after single use 5. Conduct visual inspection for any remaining asbestos materials, damaged areas requiring repair, or visible dust residue 6. Collect clearance air samples using aggressive air disturbance to simulate occupation conditions and detect any residual fibres 7. Analyse clearance samples using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) or phase contrast microscopy (PCM) per jurisdictional requirements 8. Meet clearance criteria (typically less than 0.01 fibres per millilitre for sensitive buildings, less than 0.02 fibres per millilitre for other buildings) 9. Obtain written clearance certificate from assessor confirming area meets reoccupation criteria before removing barriers 10. Provide clearance certificates to building owners, principal contractors, and regulatory authorities as required 11. Maintain clearance certificates as permanent record of removal completion and compliance verification

Download complete control procedures

Personal protective equipment

Requirement: P3 rated respirator conforming to AS/NZS 1716:2012 with 99.95% filtration efficiency, or positive pressure supplied air respirator with continuous flow air supply

When: Mandatory for all licensed asbestos removal operations throughout entire work shift. Must remain in place until worker completes decontamination shower and enters clean area.

Requirement: Type 5 Category III disposable coveralls with integrated hood, elastic wrists, ankles, and waist, minimum 50 grams per square metre material weight

When: Required for all licensed removal work. Fresh coveralls donned each work shift. Contaminated coveralls removed in decontamination facility and disposed as asbestos waste.

Requirement: Chemical-resistant nitrile gloves with textured surface for grip, extended cuffs covering coverall sleeves

When: Required throughout all asbestos handling activities. Changed when damaged or heavily contaminated. Disposed as asbestos waste.

Requirement: Steel-capped safety boots dedicated exclusively to asbestos work and never removed from site, or disposable boot covers over regular safety footwear

When: Required in all contaminated areas. If dedicated boots used, must be HEPA vacuumed and wet wiped during decontamination. If boot covers used, disposed as asbestos waste.

Requirement: Close-fitting safety goggles or full face shield providing complete eye and face protection from dust and liquid splashes

When: Required during all removal activities to protect eyes from asbestos fibres and water spray. Must seal against face or respirator.

Inspections & checks

Before work starts

  • ✓Verify all workers and supervisors hold current asbestos removal licences appropriate for removal type (Class A or Class B)
  • ✓Confirm removal notification has been submitted to regulator and minimum five-day notification period has elapsed
  • ✓Inspect all enclosure materials including heavy-duty polyethylene sheeting, duct tape, and sealing materials for adequate quantity and quality
  • ✓Test negative air filtration units to verify HEPA filter integrity, adequate airflow capacity, and electrical power supply reliability
  • ✓Verify decontamination facilities include functional showers with warm water supply, adequate water pressure, and drainage arrangements
  • ✓Inspect all personal protective equipment including P3 respirators, disposable coveralls, gloves, and footwear for adequate supply and serviceability
  • ✓Confirm fit-testing has been completed for all workers and fit-test records are current and on-site
  • ✓Review asbestos register and removal drawings confirming exact location and extent of materials to be removed
  • ✓Establish emergency procedures including emergency contacts, first aid arrangements, and evacuation procedures if urgent exit is required
  • ✓Conduct site safety assessment identifying other hazards including electrical services, structural stability, access safety, and confined spaces
  • ✓Establish exclusion zones preventing unauthorised access to removal area with barriers and signage at all approach points
  • ✓Brief all workers on removal procedures, control measures, emergency procedures, and decontamination requirements

During work

  • ✓Monitor negative air pressure continuously using pressure gauges, verifying minimum 5 Pascals differential maintained throughout operations
  • ✓Inspect enclosure barriers hourly for damage, gaps, or deterioration requiring repair or reinforcement
  • ✓Verify continuous wetting of all asbestos materials being removed, ensuring visible moisture on all surfaces
  • ✓Monitor workers for signs of heat stress including fatigue, confusion, or decreased work performance requiring rest breaks in cool area
  • ✓Conduct regular air monitoring at enclosure boundaries and in worker breathing zones to verify control effectiveness
  • ✓Inspect decontamination facilities to ensure adequate water supply, functional showers, and supplies of clean PPE
  • ✓Verify all removed asbestos materials are immediately wetted, double-bagged, sealed, and labelled before leaving work area
  • ✓Monitor waste storage area ensuring bags are not damaged, are properly labelled, and are secured against unauthorised access
  • ✓Ensure all workers complete full decontamination sequence before leaving work area without shortcuts or omissions
  • ✓Verify all tools and equipment are decontaminated before removal from work area using HEPA vacuum and wet wiping

After work

  • ✓Conduct comprehensive HEPA vacuuming of all surfaces in removal area including floors, walls, ledges, window sills, and fixtures
  • ✓Perform wet wiping of all surfaces using disposable wipes discarded as asbestos waste after single use
  • ✓Visually inspect all areas confirming no visible asbestos materials, dust residue, or damaged areas requiring repair
  • ✓Maintain negative air pressure and enclosure integrity for minimum 24 hours after removal completion before clearance inspection
  • ✓Engage independent licensed asbestos assessor to conduct clearance visual inspection and air monitoring
  • ✓Do not remove enclosure barriers until written clearance certificate is received confirming area meets reoccupation criteria
  • ✓Carefully remove enclosure barriers using wet methods, disposing all plastic sheeting and tape as asbestos waste
  • ✓Conduct final site clean-up removing all equipment, waste, and PPE supplies ensuring no asbestos materials remain
  • ✓Compile removal completion documentation including clearance certificate, air monitoring results, waste disposal receipts, and worker exposure records
  • ✓Provide removal completion documentation to building owner, principal contractor, and regulatory authority as required

Step-by-step work procedure

Give supervisors and crews a clear, auditable sequence for the task.

Field ready
1

Submit Removal Notification and Verify Licensing Compliance

Begin licensed asbestos removal project by ensuring all regulatory compliance requirements are met before any physical work commences. Submit notification to the relevant state or territory work health and safety regulator using prescribed notification forms available on regulator websites. Notifications must include complete details of the removal work including exact work location address and building description, type of asbestos materials to be removed (friable or non-friable), estimated quantity in square metres or linear metres, proposed removal start date and expected completion date, name and asbestos removal supervisor licence number of designated supervisor, names and licence numbers of all workers who will conduct removal, description of removal methods and control measures to be implemented, and details of licensed asbestos assessor who will conduct clearance inspection. Submit notification minimum five days before intended work commencement date to allow regulator review time. Verify the designated supervisor holds current Class A supervisor licence for friable asbestos removal or Class B supervisor licence for non-friable removal exceeding 10 square metres. Verify all workers hold current asbestos removal worker licences and have completed nationally recognised training units. Maintain copies of all licences on site available for regulator inspection. Do not commence any removal work until the five-day notification period has elapsed and any regulator conditions or information requests have been addressed.

Safety considerations

Commencing removal without proper notification or valid licences is a serious criminal offence under WHS legislation attracting maximum penalties. Regulators may issue immediate prohibition notices stopping all work.

2

Establish Exclusion Zones and Site Access Controls

Establish comprehensive exclusion zones preventing unauthorised access to asbestos removal areas and protecting other workers and building occupants from exposure. Define inner exclusion zone encompassing the immediate removal work area where asbestos materials will be disturbed, requiring full PPE and asbestos removal licences for entry. Define outer exclusion zone surrounding the inner zone providing buffer area preventing inadvertent proximity to removal area, restricting access to essential personnel with appropriate briefing. Install physical barriers including fencing, barrier tape, or barricades at all access points to exclusion zones, ensuring barriers are robust enough to prevent casual breach. Install standardised asbestos warning signage conforming to AS 1319 at all exclusion zone entry points, signs must include 'DANGER ASBESTOS' in white text on red background, specific prohibition on entry without authorisation and appropriate PPE, name and contact details of removal supervisor, and emergency contact information. Establish designated entry/exit points for authorised personnel equipped with sign-in registers documenting all persons entering exclusion zones with name, employer, time in/out, and authorisation. Brief building occupants and other contractors about exclusion zones, expected duration of removal work, and emergency procedures if asbestos is inadvertently disturbed outside controlled areas. Coordinate with building management to restrict access to areas adjacent to removal zone including closing off adjoining rooms, disabling card access systems, and locking entry points.

Safety considerations

Exclusion zones protect unauthorised persons but are only effective if rigorously enforced. Supervisors must monitor access points and challenge any unauthorised persons approaching removal areas.

3

Construct Fully Sealed Enclosures with Multiple Barrier Layers

Construct comprehensive enclosures isolating the asbestos removal work area from surrounding building spaces using heavy-duty polyethylene plastic sheeting creating sealed barriers on all surfaces. Survey work area perimeter identifying every penetration requiring sealing including doorways, windows, service penetrations for electrical conduits, plumbing pipes, HVAC ducts, communication cables, and any ceiling or floor openings. Begin by sealing all small penetrations using expanding foam, tape, or additional plastic sheeting ensuring complete seal around pipes, cables, and fixtures. Install minimum 200 micron (preferably 250 micron) heavy-duty polyethylene sheeting to all walls creating continuous barrier from floor to ceiling with no gaps. Secure sheeting firmly using staples, nails, or adhesive ensuring sheeting does not sag or pull away from attachment points. Seal all vertical seams between sheeting panels using minimum 75mm wide heavy-duty duct tape with minimum 100mm overlap, running tape continuously along full seam length without gaps. For critical seams and high-risk areas, apply double sealing with two separate tape runs. Cover ceiling with plastic sheeting if removal will disturb ceiling-mounted asbestos or if work activities may dislodge ceiling materials. Install floor covering using plastic sheeting taped to walls creating complete floor sealing preventing contamination of permanent floor surfaces. Install decontamination airlock at designated entry/exit point using three separate chambers separated by overlapping plastic sheeting doorways, first chamber opening to contaminated work area, second chamber housing personal decontamination shower, third chamber opening to clean area with access to site amenities.

Safety considerations

Enclosure integrity is critical to containment—any gaps or unsealed penetrations create potential routes for fibre escape. Double-check all seals before commencing removal operations.

4

Deploy and Test Negative Air Pressure Systems

Install negative air pressure systems maintaining pressure differential between removal area and surrounding spaces, ensuring air flows into the enclosure preventing asbestos fibre escape even if small gaps exist in barriers. Calculate required negative air filtration capacity based on enclosure volume (minimum one filtration unit per 100 cubic metres of work area) and expected air change rate (minimum 4 air changes per hour for friable asbestos removal). Position HEPA-filtered negative air machines inside the sealed enclosure with intake drawing from work area and exhaust discharging outside. Extend flexible ducting from filtration unit exhaust to building exterior, routing exhaust away from building air intakes, occupied areas, and neighbouring properties. Seal all connections between filtration unit and exhaust ducting using tape and mechanical clamps preventing air leakage before filtration. Verify HEPA filters are properly installed, undamaged, and within service life as indicated by filter pressure gauges or manufacturer specifications. Power on filtration units and allow pressure to stabilise for 30 minutes before testing differential pressure. Use calibrated digital pressure gauges or manometers to measure pressure differential between removal area and surrounding spaces—minimum acceptable differential is 5 Pascals (0.02 inches water column) with removal area at lower pressure. Alternatively use smoke pencils or tissue paper at doorways and penetrations confirming air flows into enclosure. Install continuous pressure monitoring with audible alarms that activate if pressure differential falls below minimum requirement due to equipment failure or excessive barrier leakage. Maintain negative air pressure continuously throughout all removal operations and for minimum 24 hours after removal completion before barriers are removed.

Safety considerations

Negative air pressure system failure eliminates primary engineering control preventing fibre escape. Immediately cease removal work if pressure differential cannot be maintained and investigate cause.

5

Establish Three-Stage Decontamination Facilities

Construct comprehensive three-stage decontamination facilities enabling workers to exit contaminated areas without spreading asbestos to clean areas or off-site locations. The three stages consist of contaminated area for gross decontamination, shower area for personal washing while wearing respirator, and clean area for respirator removal and donning clean clothing. Build decontamination airlock adjacent to work area using plastic sheeting to define three separate chambers with overlapping doorway openings allowing passage between stages without creating direct opening. Equip contaminated area (first stage) with HEPA vacuum cleaner for removing gross contamination from coveralls, water spray bottles for wetting down visible dust, waste bins lined with plastic bags for disposing contaminated items, and wash-down facilities for cleaning tools and equipment. Install personal decontamination shower in second stage with warm water supply (35-40°C temperature range), adequate water pressure for effective washing, shower head providing full body coverage, and drainage system directing water to sewerage or containment for treatment as asbestos waste. Provide clean area (third stage) with supply of clean disposable coveralls for workers re-entering contaminated area, clean respirators and filters, clean towels for drying after shower, storage area for workers' personal clothing and valuables, and sign-out register documenting worker exit times. Establish standard operating procedure for decontamination sequence: workers approaching exit while wearing full contaminated PPE including respirator, HEPA vacuuming coveralls thoroughly in first stage while respirator remains in place, proceeding to shower in second stage maintaining respirator throughout minimum 30-second shower thoroughly wetting hair and washing exposed skin, moving to clean area and only then removing respirator after contamination has been washed away, drying and storing respirator for re-use or disposal, donning personal clothing and exiting facility. Designate supervisor or competent person to monitor decontamination area ensuring all workers complete proper sequence.

Safety considerations

The critical rule is workers must never remove respirators while contaminated. Respirators remain in place through gross decontamination and shower stages, only being removed in clean area after washing eliminates surface contamination.

6

Don Personal Protective Equipment Following Correct Donning Sequence

Before entering contaminated areas, don full personal protective equipment following systematic sequence ensuring complete protection and proper fit. Begin in clean area where personal clothing is stored. Put on dedicated safety footwear or pull disposable boot covers over regular safety footwear, ensuring boot covers completely cover boots to ankles. Don disposable coveralls by stepping into legs, pulling coveralls up to shoulders, and inserting arms into sleeves. Pull integrated hood over head covering all hair. Close front zipper completely from bottom to top ensuring smooth closure without gaps. Secure elastic cuffs at wrists and ankles ensuring snug fit. If coveralls have external flap over zipper, seal flap using adhesive strip or tape. Don nitrile gloves pulling gloves over coverall sleeves and taping junction if working in high contamination areas. Conduct pre-use inspection of P3 respirator checking filter cartridges are undamaged and within service life, inhalation and exhalation valves are present and functional, head straps are not stretched or damaged, and face seal area is clean and undamaged. Position respirator on face ensuring nose clip sits properly on bridge of nose, chin fits into chin cup, and respirator covers from below chin to above nose. Pull lower head strap over head and position at base of skull, pull upper head strap over head and position at crown. Tighten both straps evenly achieving firm but comfortable fit. Adjust nose clip by pinching to conform to nose bridge shape creating seal. Conduct positive pressure seal check by covering filter inlet with hand and exhaling gently—respirator should bulge slightly indicating air cannot escape and seal is effective. Conduct negative pressure seal check by covering filter inlet and inhaling gently—respirator should collapse slightly against face indicating air cannot enter and seal is effective. If seal check fails, readjust respirator position and straps and repeat until seal check passes. Don safety goggles or face shield over respirator ensuring good seal and clear vision. Enter contaminated area only after full PPE is properly donned and seal checks are successful.

Safety considerations

Effective respirator seal requires clean-shaven face—even one day's stubble prevents seal and eliminates respiratory protection. Workers with facial hair cannot enter asbestos removal areas using tight-fitting respirators.

7

Conduct Wet Removal of Asbestos Materials Using Controlled Dismantling

Remove asbestos materials using wet methods and controlled dismantling techniques that minimise fibre generation throughout all removal activities. Before disturbing any asbestos materials, apply thorough initial wetting using water containing wetting agent (surfactant) applied through airless spray systems producing fine mist that penetrates materials without excessive runoff. For friable asbestos materials including pipe lagging, insulation, and sprayed coatings, inject water directly into materials using injection needles or spray lances, saturating from inside before removing external layers. Carefully hand-remove friable materials in small sections maintaining continuous wetting, immediately placing removed materials into plastic waste bags without dropping or throwing. For bonded asbestos cement sheeting on walls or roofs, remove fixings carefully using hand tools avoiding power tools where possible. If cutting is required, use wet cutting methods with continuous water application at cutting point, or carefully score and snap methods that create clean breaks without grinding or sanding. Remove sheeting in largest practical pieces rather than breaking into small fragments—intact sheets generate fewer fibres than broken pieces. Lower removed sheeting carefully to ground or work platform rather than dropping or throwing which causes breakage and fibre release. Immediately wet all removed sheeting thoroughly on both sides, then double-wrap using heavy-duty plastic bags or sheeting. For asbestos materials requiring separation from substrates, use hand tools applying gradual controlled force rather than striking or prying violently. Continuously rewet all exposed surfaces as removal progresses. Apply water mist to work area atmosphere periodically to suppress airborne fibres causing them to settle. Collect all debris including small fragments, dust, and contaminated materials placing in waste bags. Never use compressed air, dry sweeping, power saws without water suppression, or high-speed grinding which generate extreme fibre concentrations.

Safety considerations

Wet methods are only effective if materials remain visibly wet throughout removal. If materials appear to be drying, immediately reapply water before continuing removal activities.

8

Double-Bag and Label All Asbestos Waste for Disposal

Manage all removed asbestos materials and contaminated waste using double-bagging procedures and asbestos warning labelling to prevent fibre release and ensure proper identification throughout transport and disposal chain. Prepare heavy-duty plastic waste bags (minimum 200 micron thickness) rated for asbestos waste handling. As asbestos materials are removed, immediately place into first plastic bag, wetting materials before and during bagging. When first bag is approximately two-thirds full (never fill completely which creates handling difficulty and bag failure risk), thoroughly wet all materials inside, expel excess air by carefully folding bag while leaving some air for cushioning, and seal bag using gooseneck tie method (twist top of bag multiple times then bend twisted section over and secure with heavy-duty tape). Place sealed first bag inside second plastic bag, wet exterior of first bag before sealing second bag, and seal second bag using same gooseneck tie method. Affix asbestos warning labels to exterior of double-bagged waste using labels complying with dangerous goods transport requirements. Labels must include 'DANGER ASBESTOS' warning in accordance with AS 1319, specify waste type (friable or non-friable asbestos), include waste generator details (company name and contact information), include waste destination (licensed disposal facility details), and include date of packaging. Store double-bagged waste in designated area within removal enclosure until ready for transport. For transport, load bags into sealed skips or vehicles preventing weather exposure and preventing bag damage. Provide waste transport documentation including waste tracking forms, dangerous goods declarations if applicable, and consignment notes to receiving facility. Only transport asbestos waste to EPA-licensed facilities authorised to accept asbestos materials. Maintain waste disposal receipts as permanent records of proper disposal.

Safety considerations

Asbestos waste bags are extremely heavy when filled with wet materials. Limit bag size to enable safe manual handling—maximum 20kg per bag to prevent handling injuries and bag failure from excessive weight.

9

Conduct Comprehensive Post-Removal Cleaning and Preparation for Clearance

Following completion of all asbestos material removal, conduct comprehensive cleaning of the entire removal area to remove all residual asbestos fibres and prepare for independent clearance inspection. Begin by conducting thorough HEPA vacuuming of all surfaces within removal area including floors, walls, ceiling surfaces, window sills, ledges, fixtures, equipment, and any items remaining in the area. Use HEPA vacuum cleaners with filtration efficiency of 99.97% for 0.3 micron particles ensuring filters are serviceable and vacuum has adequate suction. Vacuum methodically working from top to bottom and from furthest point toward exit, using slow overlapping strokes allowing vacuum to extract embedded fibres. Pay particular attention to horizontal surfaces, corners, cracks, and service penetrations where dust accumulates. Following HEPA vacuuming, perform wet wiping of all surfaces using disposable cloths or wipes dampened with water and wetting agent. Wipe surfaces using single-direction strokes, folding cloths to present clean surface for each stroke. Dispose of all used wipes as asbestos waste—never rinse and reuse. Repeat wet wiping until cloths show no visible residue indicating surfaces are clean. Conduct detailed visual inspection of entire removal area examining all surfaces for any remaining asbestos materials, visible dust residue, or damaged building elements requiring repair before clearance. Repair any damage to building surfaces caused during removal using appropriate non-asbestos materials. Remove all equipment, tools, waste bags, and supplies from removal area ensuring nothing remains except permanent building fixtures. Maintain negative air pressure and enclosure integrity for minimum 24 hours after cleaning completion, allowing airborne fibres to settle and be filtered from atmosphere. Conduct final inspection confirming area is completely clean and ready for independent clearance inspection.

Safety considerations

Cleaning is as important as removal—residual fibres left after removal create ongoing exposure risk for building occupants. Never skip or rush cleaning procedures regardless of time pressure.

10

Obtain Independent Clearance Certificate Before Removing Barriers

Following completion of removal and comprehensive cleaning, engage independent licensed asbestos assessor to conduct clearance inspection and air monitoring confirming successful removal and safety for reoccupation. Assessor must be independent from removal contractor with no commercial relationship that could compromise objectivity. Maintain negative air pressure and sealed barriers until assessor arrives and completes initial visual inspection. Assessor will conduct comprehensive visual inspection of entire removal area checking for any remaining asbestos materials, visible dust or residue on surfaces, adequate cleaning of all surfaces, repair of any building damage, and readiness for clearance air sampling. If visual inspection identifies deficiencies, conduct additional cleaning or remediation before air sampling proceeds. Assessor will conduct clearance air sampling using aggressive air disturbance methods including operating fans, opening and closing access points, and disturbing air to simulate occupation conditions. Multiple air samples are collected from various locations within removal area and analysed by NATA-accredited laboratories using phase contrast microscopy (PCM) or transmission electron microscopy (TEM) depending on jurisdictional requirements. Clearance criteria vary by building type and jurisdiction but typically require less than 0.01 fibres per millilitre for sensitive buildings (schools, hospitals, childcare) or less than 0.02 fibres per millilitre for other buildings. If clearance criteria are not met, conduct additional cleaning, repeat HEPA vacuuming and wet wiping, identify potential sources of residual fibres, and request reassessment when remediation is complete. Only after receiving written clearance certificate confirming area meets reoccupation criteria, carefully remove plastic sheeting barriers using wet methods to prevent dust generation from barrier surfaces. Dispose of all barrier materials as asbestos waste. Provide clearance certificate to building owner, principal contractor, and regulatory authority completing documentation requirements.

Safety considerations

Never remove barriers or allow reoccupation before clearance certificate is obtained. Premature reoccupation of inadequately cleaned areas exposes building occupants to asbestos fibres and creates serious liability.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Class A and Class B asbestos removal licences?

Class A asbestos removal licences authorise removal of any quantity and any type of asbestos including all friable (loosely bound) asbestos materials. Class A licence holders can remove sprayed asbestos insulation, asbestos pipe and boiler insulation, asbestos rope and gaskets, deteriorated asbestos materials, and any quantity of bonded non-friable asbestos. Class B asbestos removal licences authorise removal of non-friable (bonded) asbestos only, in quantities exceeding 10 square metres. Class B licence holders can remove asbestos cement sheeting including fibro walls, roofing, and eaves, but cannot remove any amount of friable asbestos. The key distinction relates to friability—friable asbestos can be crumbled by hand pressure and releases fibres very easily, while non-friable asbestos is bonded in cement or other matrix making it more stable but still hazardous when disturbed. Class A licence training is more extensive than Class B, covering additional control measures required for high-risk friable materials. Both licences require completion of nationally recognised training units, passing competency assessments, and ongoing renewal to maintain currency. Workers must hold appropriate licence class for the specific asbestos type being removed—using Class B licence to remove friable asbestos is a serious offence resulting in immediate prohibition notices and prosecution.

How long do I need to maintain negative air pressure after removal is finished?

Negative air pressure systems must be maintained continuously for minimum 24 hours after all asbestos removal and cleaning activities are complete before clearance inspection can occur. This 24-hour period allows airborne fibres disturbed during final cleaning to settle from the air and be captured by HEPA filtration systems. During removal operations, cutting, handling, and packaging asbestos materials generates airborne fibres that remain suspended in air for extended periods due to their microscopic size and low density. Even after removal is complete and surfaces are cleaned, residual fibres continue circulating in the air for hours. Maintaining negative pressure and filtration during this settling period ensures fibres are captured rather than escaping when barriers are removed. Some jurisdictions or projects may require longer periods—48 hours or more for particularly extensive removal or friable asbestos operations. The clearance assessor will verify negative air systems have operated continuously before conducting clearance air sampling. If negative air systems are shut down prematurely, residual airborne fibres may settle on surfaces that were previously clean, or may escape through barrier gaps when pressure equalises. This creates clearance failure requiring additional cleaning and re-testing. Never shut down negative air systems early to meet schedule deadlines—the 24-hour minimum is based on particle settling science and is critical to ensuring successful clearance and worker protection.

Can I use a regular vacuum cleaner instead of a HEPA vacuum for asbestos cleanup?

No—regular vacuum cleaners must never be used for asbestos cleanup as they lack adequate filtration and will spread asbestos fibres throughout the building creating widespread contamination far worse than the original situation. Regular domestic or commercial vacuum cleaners typically use bag or cyclone filtration systems that may capture large dust particles but allow microscopic asbestos fibres to pass straight through the filter and be expelled through the vacuum exhaust. This creates a highly effective fibre dispersal system turning the vacuum into an asbestos distribution device. Only HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) vacuum cleaners specifically rated for asbestos use are acceptable. These specialised vacuums must have filtration efficiency of 99.97% for particles 0.3 microns or larger, complete sealing preventing air bypass around filters, reinforced construction handling heavy debris without failure, and design allowing safe filter replacement without exposure. HEPA vacuums for asbestos work should be dedicated to asbestos use only and labelled to prevent inadvertent use for general cleaning. Filters must be regularly inspected, changed according to manufacturer recommendations or when suction decreases, and disposed of as asbestos waste. Using inadequate vacuum equipment is a common cause of clearance failure and regulatory prosecution. If proper HEPA vacuum equipment is not available, do not attempt asbestos removal—using wrong equipment creates worse contamination than leaving asbestos undisturbed.

Do I need to notify the regulator for every asbestos removal job?

Yes—all licensed asbestos removal work (Class A and Class B) must be notified to your state or territory work health and safety regulator at least five days before work commences. This is a mandatory legal requirement under WHS Regulations with no exceptions for small jobs, short duration work, or repeat work at the same location. Each separate removal job requires individual notification even if conducted by the same contractor at locations you have worked previously. Notification must include complete details including exact work location address, description of building and area where asbestos is located, type of asbestos to be removed (friable or non-friable), estimated quantity in square metres or linear metres, proposed start date and expected completion date, name and licence number of designated removal supervisor, names and licence numbers of all workers who will conduct removal, description of removal methods and control measures including enclosure type, decontamination facilities, and disposal arrangements, and details of licensed asbestos assessor who will conduct clearance. Some jurisdictions provide online notification systems allowing electronic submission, while others require paper forms submitted by mail, fax, or in person. Retain confirmation of notification submission and any regulator reference numbers. Regulators use notifications to plan inspections and may attend site to verify compliance. Commencing removal without notification or before the five-day period has elapsed is a serious offence attracting immediate prohibition notices and prosecution. The only asbestos work not requiring notification is removal of less than 10 square metres of non-friable asbestos by competent persons without asbestos removal licences—but this work still requires comprehensive controls and documentation.

What happens if clearance air monitoring fails to meet the required criteria?

If clearance air monitoring shows fibre concentrations exceeding clearance criteria, the area has failed clearance and cannot be reoccupied until additional remediation is conducted and clearance is successfully achieved. The licensed asbestos assessor will provide a clearance failure report identifying which samples exceeded criteria and the measured fibre concentrations. You must investigate potential sources of residual contamination—common causes include inadequate initial cleaning leaving fibres on surfaces, damaged bags or waste materials releasing fibres within the enclosure, fibres remaining in gaps or cracks not accessed during cleaning, or disturbance of contaminated materials outside the immediate removal area. Conduct additional comprehensive cleaning including repeat HEPA vacuuming of all surfaces with particular attention to previously missed areas, additional wet wiping using clean disposable cloths until no residue is visible, inspection and cleaning of difficult-to-access areas including ceiling voids and service penetrations, and removal of any remaining contaminated materials or waste. Maintain negative air pressure and enclosure throughout additional cleaning. Following remediation, request the assessor to conduct repeat clearance inspection and air monitoring—you will need to pay for additional assessment. Continue cleaning and retesting until clearance criteria are met. Do not remove barriers or allow access until written clearance certificate is obtained. Clearance failure causes significant project delays and additional costs, highlighting the importance of thorough initial cleaning and proper removal procedures. Multiple clearance failures may trigger regulatory investigation and indicate fundamental problems with removal procedures or competency requiring external intervention. Some clearance failures result from issues beyond the removalist's control such as disturbance of previously unknown asbestos outside the work area—in these cases, expand the removal scope to address newly identified materials.

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