CLASS B ASBESTOS REMOVAL
A substantial percentage of homes in NSW which were built before the mid 1980's used building elements made from Asbestos Containing Material (ACM).
Then, although the use of ACM was phased out from the late 1980's, it was not completely banned and remained in use until December 2003.
There is significant legislation and regulation around managing the risks of the known health hazards created by the discovery and removal of this severely hazardous material.
Although most ACM (non-friable) is relatively safe when untouched, it is obviously disturbed during the removal process, which means that asbestos fibres can be released into the atmosphere creating potential and extreme risk to human health for those in the vicinity of the removal works.
It is for that reason that Asbestos Removal works will generally need to be performed by a Safework licensed and experienced Asbestos Removal contractor.
It is only where there is a small amount of non-friable ACM (>10m2) identified for removal, that works can be performed by non-licensed personnel. However, even in those circumstances, it is still necessary for:
a. The removal process to be planned through specific hazard identification and performed under specific and directed risk control measures.
b. PPE to be worn at all times during the work in the asbestos removal area. PPE includes clothing, for example coveralls, gloves and safety footwear, as well as Respiratory Protection Equipment (P2 Mask minimum).
c. Signs and barricades are erected to indicate and delineate the asbestos work area.
d. The wet method to remove asbestos where reasonably practicable is used.
e. That asbestos waste is contained and labelled properly and dispose of as soon as reasonably practicable at an authorised waste receiving facility which is licensed to accept asbestos waste. (Further details on the obligations required for performed of asbestos removal works >10m2 may be obtained from Safework NSW)
However, as can be seen by the above points, it is considered that removal of even a very small amount of asbestos is a difficult and hazardous venture. In all cases, it is safer and more suitable for asbestos removal works to be performed by a Safework licensed Asbestos Removal Contractor.
Indeed, for non-friable asbestos removal associated with an area > 10m2, it is a legal requirement that such works be performed by a NSW Safework licensed Asbestos Removal Contractor.
For these purposes, Bayview Demolition and Asbestos Removal Services holds an operative NSW Safework class B Asbestos Removal licence and our experience personnel have a comprehensive understanding of all relevant provisions of the NSW Safework Code of Practice.
When Bayview Demolition is engaged to perform asbestos removal works (of any size) we ensure that our experienced and licensed personnel not only comply with, but exceed the minimum legislative and regulatory requirements associated with the safe removal and disposal of this hazardous material.
Obviously, this policy becomes particularly important when Asbestos Removal Works are to be performed in the context of structural demolition works (which include residential works, such as, house and shed structural demolition works).
Before demolition works are performed, it is necessary, under law, for all potential ACM in the structure to be identified, where possible, and removed before any demolition works are performed to the structure otherwise.
Also, so as to ensure that no ACM remains in the property area generally, it is necessary for the demolition contractor to arrange for an independent licensed asbestos assessor or competent person to conduct a comprehensive inspection of the property and give a certificate stating that all ACM has been removed, before handover of the property can be completed.
Noting the above, it is fairly clear that the consequences of unlicensed and unqualified demolition and asbestos removal works can be catastrophic to homeowners and others in the community.
At Bayview Demolition, we understand the necessity for any proposed demolition works (especially where there are building elements that may pre-date December 2003) to be inspected, planned and performed by a demolition company that, like Bayview Demolition, has the licenses and qualified personnel in place that can properly consider both the high risk demolition works and the asbestos removal works that will most likely be required.
We understand that demolition and asbestos removal works are high risk, and that different site conditions occur in every job. Bayview ensures that all demolition and asbestos removal works are carefully planned and performed under specific staged and comprehensive work plans, SWMS, Asbestos Removal Control Plans, Hazardous Substances Management Plans and compliance documents in accordance with our policy to meet and exceed legislative requirements and recommended practices.
Should you wish to discuss any asbestos removal job (whether large or small) with one of our friendly staff, please complete the contact us section of our webpage, call us on 0419 969799 or email us at info@bayviewdemolition.com.au.