Asbestos
Summary
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fibre that was widely used in building materials for its strength, heat resistance and durability. In Australia, asbestos-containing materials are commonly present in buildings constructed or renovated prior to the late 1980s.
Where asbestos is suspected or identified, specialist assessment is required to determine the presence, condition and risk associated with asbestos-containing materials [link: Asbestos Inspection / Survey Services]. When asbestos is damaged or disturbed, fibres can become airborne and pose a serious health risk if inhaled.
Definition
Asbestos refers to a group of naturally occurring fibrous silicate minerals that were historically used in a wide range of construction and industrial products, including cement sheeting, insulation, flooring, roofing and fireproofing materials.
Materials containing asbestos are classified as asbestos-containing materials (ACM) and require appropriate identification, management or removal depending on their condition and the nature of proposed works.
Why Asbestos Matters
From a health and risk management perspective, asbestos is a significant hazard.
Inhalation of asbestos fibres is associated with serious diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. For this reason, any work that may disturb asbestos must be planned and managed in accordance with work health and safety requirements.
Asbestos also presents a regulatory and compliance issue. Development, refurbishment and remediation projects commonly require asbestos surveys, registers or clearance inspections to meet planning, workplace and environmental obligations.
Asbestos risks often intersect with other site constraints, particularly during redevelopment or remediation works. Asbestos in soil, fill or structures can influence remediation strategies, waste classification and construction methodology.
When Asbestos Is Typically Assessed
Assessment of asbestos is generally required where:
Buildings or structures were constructed or renovated before asbestos bans were introduced
Demolition, refurbishment or intrusive maintenance works are proposed
Unexpected suspect materials are encountered during construction or earthworks
Soil or fill materials may contain asbestos fragments
Development consent, WHS or environmental conditions require asbestos assessment
Early assessment allows asbestos risks to be identified and managed before works commence.
Legislative and Regulatory Context
In Australia, asbestos is regulated under work health and safety legislation, environmental protection laws and waste management frameworks.
In New South Wales, asbestos management, assessment and clearance requirements are governed by the Work Health and Safety Act and Regulation, SafeWork NSW guidance and EPA waste classification requirements. Compliance with these frameworks often necessitates engagement of an independent asbestos consultant.
How We Can Help
Confluence Environmental provides independent asbestos consulting services to support planning, construction, remediation and compliance.
Our services include:
Asbestos and hazardous materials inspections and surveys
Identification and assessment of asbestos-containing materials
Asbestos air monitoring and clearance inspections
Advice on asbestos management plans and control measures
Support with asbestos waste classification and disposal requirements
We work alongside clients, contractors and regulators to ensure asbestos risks are identified early and managed appropriately throughout the project lifecycle.
Related Terms and Concepts
Asbestos Management Plan
Asbestos Register
Friable Asbestos
Non-Friable Asbestos
Asbestos in Soil
Asbestos Clearance Inspection
Air Monitoring