Asbestos decontamination in Toowoomba

Asbestos decontamination in Toowoomba is the clean-up that happens after asbestos has been removed, broken or disturbed. The aim is simple. Leave no dust or debris behind, so the area is safe to use again.

Removal is only half the job. Cement sheeting can shed fine dust when it is cut or broken, and that dust settles on floors, ledges, soil and tools. If it is not cleaned up properly, the site is still contaminated even when the sheets are gone.

We are Asbestos Removal Network, based at 1 Margaret St, East Toowoomba. Our contractors hold a Class B licence, which covers non-friable (bonded) asbestos. This page explains what a proper clean involves, where our licence stops, and who checks the result.

What decontamination covers

A site clean after asbestos work usually includes:

• Wet wiping hard surfaces, so dust is lifted rather than pushed around.
• Cleaning up small pieces and debris from the work area and the ground around it.
• Removing and wrapping drop sheets, tape and other materials used during the job.
• Decontaminating tools and equipment before they leave the site.
• Wrapping and labelling all waste so it can be transported and disposed of properly.

The Queensland Government is clear about what must not be used on asbestos or its dust. Power tools without dust control, high pressure water cleaners, compressed air, abrasive blasting and household vacuum cleaners (even HEPA ones) are all prohibited.

Where our Class B licence stops

Class B covers non-friable asbestos, such as flat or corrugated cement sheeting, and the dust and debris tied to removing it. That is the bulk of what we do on asbestos removal jobs.

Some situations need a Class A licensed removalist instead. These include friable asbestos, which can be crumbled to powder by hand when dry, and contamination that goes beyond minor dust. Examples are crumbling insulation, pipe lagging, sheet vinyl backing and fire damaged material. We do not hold a Class A licence, and we will not pretend we do.

If you are not sure which side of the line your site falls on, ring us on (07) 3185 2323. We will talk it through honestly, and if a Class A removalist is needed we will say so.

Who checks the clean

After licensed asbestos removal, a clearance inspection checks that the area is safe for normal use. It always includes a visual inspection, and it may include air monitoring.

We do not sign off our own work. For non-friable jobs the inspection is done by an independent competent person. For Class A work it is an independent licensed asbestos assessor. You then receive a written clearance certificate. Where air samples are taken, the area can only be cleared if fibre levels are below 0.01 fibres per millilitre. The air monitoring guide explains what that means.

When people call us for a site clean

Most enquiries fall into a few groups:

1. After a removal job. The sheeting is down and you want the site left clean and certified.
2. After a storm or hail. Broken sheeting is lying in the yard or on the roof. Our guide to storm and hail damaged asbestos covers the first steps.
3. After a fire. Heat can crack asbestos materials and release fibres. See fire damaged asbestos. This often needs a Class A removalist.
4. After a mistake. Someone drilled, cut or broke a sheet. Start with what to do if you disturbed asbestos.

How we approach the job

Before work starts, we prepare an Asbestos Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS). It sets out how the work will be done and how the area will be controlled. Licensed removal also needs a documented asbestos removal control plan, and at a home it must be accessible to the people who live there.

We carry $20 million public liability insurance. When the job is finished and cleared, you get the clearance certificate.

Health worries

If you think you have been exposed to asbestos dust and you are worried about your health, see your GP. We are not able to give medical advice.

Check the current rules

Asbestos rules change from time to time. Check the current requirements at asbestos.qld.gov.au, or call us and we will point you in the right direction.