Asbestos was once a common building material in Australia, used extensively between the 1940s and late 1980s for insulation, fireproofing, and strengthening construction materials. However, it was later discovered that asbestos poses serious health risks, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. As a result, asbestos use was phased out and banned in Australia in 2003. Today, professional asbestos removal is essential for ensuring safety in older buildings, and nowhere is this more relevant than in Sydney, where thousands of homes and commercial properties still contain asbestos materials.
In this detailed guide, we will explore everything you need to know about asbestos removal Sydney, including types of asbestos, health risks, legal regulations, removal processes, costs, and choosing the right professional removalists.
Understanding Asbestos
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos refers to a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals known for their durability and heat resistance. The three most common types used in construction are:
Chrysotile (white asbestos) – the most widely used.
Amosite (brown asbestos) – used in cement sheets and pipe insulation.
Crocidolite (blue asbestos) – considered the most hazardous and used in high-temperature insulation.
Where Is Asbestos Found?
In Sydney’s residential and commercial properties, asbestos may be found in:
Roofing, gutters, and downpipes
Interior and exterior wall sheeting
Vinyl floor tiles and backing
Pipe insulation
Eaves, ceilings, and fences
Fireplaces and heater flues
Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
When disturbed, asbestos fibers can become airborne and, when inhaled, lodge in the lungs. Prolonged exposure can lead to:
Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease causing scarring of lung tissue.
Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive form of cancer affecting the lung lining.
Lung Cancer: Particularly in individuals who smoke or have prolonged exposure.
Pleural Plaques: Thickened patches on the lining of the lungs.
These diseases often manifest decades after exposure, making early detection and proper removal vital.
Asbestos Removal in Sydney: What You Need to Know
Is Asbestos Removal Necessary?
If asbestos materials are in good condition and undisturbed, they may not pose an immediate threat. However, if you plan renovations, demolitions, or suspect damage to asbestos-containing materials, removal is crucial.
Legal Requirements in Sydney
Asbestos removal in Sydney is strictly regulated under:
NSW Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017
SafeWork NSW guidelines
Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) regulations
Key legal requirements include:
Only licensed asbestos removalists may handle friable asbestos.
Air monitoring and clearance certificates are mandatory after friable asbestos removal.
Disposal must occur at licensed asbestos waste facilities.
The Removal Process
1. Inspection & Testing
An accredited asbestos assessor conducts a site inspection to identify the presence and type of asbestos through sample analysis in a laboratory.
2. Risk Assessment and Planning
If asbestos is confirmed, a removal control plan is created, detailing the process, protective equipment, and waste disposal strategy.
3. Containment and Safety
The affected area is sealed off to prevent contamination. Air filtration systems (like HEPA filters) are used to capture airborne fibers.
4. Safe Removal
Licensed professionals remove asbestos materials carefully, using techniques that minimize fiber release.
5. Decontamination and Clearance
All surfaces and equipment are decontaminated. An independent assessor conducts air monitoring and issues a clearance certificate.
6. Disposal
Asbestos waste is double-bagged, sealed, and transported to a licensed landfill.
Choosing the Right Asbestos Removal Company in Sydney
When selecting an asbestos removal service, consider:
Licensing and Certification: Ensure they have Class A (for friable) or Class B (for non-friable) asbestos removal licenses.
Experience: Look for companies with proven experience in handling similar projects.
Insurance: Confirm they carry public liability and professional indemnity insurance.
Reputation: Check reviews and ask for referrals.
Safety Practices: Ensure they follow NSW WorkSafe and EPA guidelines.
Some reputable asbestos removal companies in Sydney include:
A&B Asrem: Licensed and experienced in residential and commercial removals.
Sydney City Asbestos: Known for strict safety protocols and professional service.
Asbestos Be Gone: Specializes in home inspections and removals.
Final Thoughts
With thousands of Sydney homes built before the asbestos ban, asbestos removal remains a critical service for homeowners, landlords, and commercial property owners. Professional, licensed removal is not only a legal requirement but a vital step toward protecting your health and that of your family or employees.
