Updated July 2026
Article highlights
- Asbestos in soil can be friable (airborne) or bonded (non-friable) and may persist for decades.
- Amphibole asbestos (crocidolite, amosite, tremolite) is the most durable and commonly found in soil.
- Soil contamination can come from old buildings, contaminated topsoil, demolition, and buried structures.
- Licensed professionals must conduct testing, remediation, and disposal in line with WA regulations.
- Regular monitoring and preventative measures reduce exposure risks for residential and commercial sites.
In the pursuit of safety and environmental health, understanding the intricacies of asbestos in soil is paramount. Asbestos, a notorious mineral once celebrated for its versatility, poses a hidden peril when it lurks in the very ground beneath our feet. Even buried or non-visible asbestos fibres can pose serious health and environmental risks if disturbed.
In this blog, we delve into asbestos contamination in soil, exploring its characteristics, risks, safe asbestos removal process, management strategies, and regulatory frameworks.
Do you require asbestos removal services? Get in touch with the team at Rapid today.
Understanding asbestos in soil
Asbestos in soil is hazardous because fibres can become airborne when disturbed. Unlike solid asbestos materials used in buildings, asbestos in soil is not always easily recognisable. It can exist in various forms, such as friable asbestos fibres (airborne fibres), fine dust, small fibres, particles, or even larger non-friable asbestos fragments.
These hazardous fibres can become airborne when disturbed, potentially leading to inhalation and subsequent health issues.
The type of buried asbestos material commonly found in soil on asbestos-contaminated sites is typically amphibole asbestos types – crocidolite (blue), amosite (brown), and tremolite – known for durability and resistance to natural breakdown. These amphibole fibres are more durable and resistant to degradation than chrysotile (white asbestos), making them more likely to persist in soil over time.
Sources of asbestos contamination in soil
The majority of asbestos found in soil across various regions in Australia can be attributed to four primary sources:
- Improper demolition of asbestos-containing buildings. Buildings constructed with asbestos-containing materials that were not properly demolished and disposed of, resulting in contamination of the surrounding soil.
- Use of asbestos-contaminated soil as fill or landfill. The use of asbestos-contaminated soil as topsoil or landfill contributes to the spread of friable asbestos fibres in the environment.
- Deterioration of building materials that leach fibres into surrounding soil. Construction practices involving asbestos-containing materials contribute to contamination. As these materials deteriorate over time, asbestos fibres can leach into the surrounding soil, infiltrating gardens, playgrounds, and other residential or recreational areas.
- Buried structures such as sheds, chicken coops, and fences. Buried asbestos materials, such as old sheds, chicken coops, and fences, are often found during subdivisions or construction works.
If you are undergoing subdivision or construction work on a property and are not sure if bonded asbestos is present in the soil, then you should have it tested. Contact our team today.
Enquire for safe asbestos removal
Health and environmental impacts of asbestos in soil
Inhalation of friable asbestos fibres from soil can lead to severe health risks, such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Contamination also disrupts ecosystems and can harm wildlife.
Regulations and guidelines for managing asbestos in soil
In Australia, management of asbestos in soil is governed by strict regulations and guidelines set forth by regulatory authorities. These measures are crucial for safeguarding public health and environmental integrity.
More specifically, the Government of Western Australia, Department of Health, has established a comprehensive Guideline for the Assessment, Remediation, and Management of Asbestos-Contaminated Sites. This addresses the risks associated with asbestos contamination in soil and the affected land.
Adherence to these guidelines is essential for individuals and organisations involved in activities that may affect soil quality, ensuring the proper handling, remediation, and disposal of asbestos-contaminated soil to mitigate risks to human health and the environment.
Note that these guidelines are to be used in conjunction with*:
- National Environment Protection Council, 1999. [Amended (Varied): 11 April 2013]. National Environment Protection (Assessment of Site Contamination) Measure, 1999. Environment Australia: Canberra. http://www.nepc.gov.au/nepms/assessment-site-contamination
- DWER, 2021. Assessment and Management of Contaminated Sites. Government of Western Australia: Department of Water and Environmental Regulation.
https://www.wa.gov.au/system/files/2023-05/guideline-assessment-and-management-of-contaminated-sites.pdf
* As of July 2026.
Remediation techniques for asbestos-contaminated soil
Managing asbestos in soil necessitates specialised remediation techniques. These may include:
- Encapsulation: Sealing asbestos in place within a protective material to prevent fibre release.
- Excavation and removal: Licensed professionals safely remove contaminated soil for disposal.
- Monitoring: Regular inspections, air monitoring, and soil testing.
- Safety protocols: Protective equipment, barriers, and regulatory adherence are essential.
Remediation efforts must be conducted by trained asbestos professionals with the necessary expertise and adherence to safety protocols.
Prevention and safety measures
Preventing asbestos contamination in soil begins with awareness and vigilance. Property owners should identify and assess potential sources of asbestos, especially in older buildings or areas with industrial history. Regular monitoring and testing of soil quality can detect asbestos early, enabling prompt remedial action.
Implementing proper safety measures, such as wearing protective gear and following established protocols during construction or excavation activities, is essential for minimising exposure risks.
The threat of asbestos in soil demands attention and proactive management. By understanding its nature, origins, and associated risks, and by adhering to regulatory guidelines and implementing effective remediation and prevention strategies, we can mitigate the hidden dangers lurking beneath the ground and safeguard both human health and the environment.
Take action with Rapid Asbestos Removals
At Rapid Asbestos Removal, we specialise in identifying and safely removing asbestos from your property. Our experienced team follows stringent safety protocols and adheres to all regulatory guidelines to ensure your property is asbestos-free and safe.
Concerned that your property may have asbestos materials in the soil? Get in touch with us at Rapid Asbestos Removals today.
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FAQs about asbestos in soil
Asbestos in soil may appear as small, white, fibrous strands or powdery fragments mixed within the soil. In garden soil, asbestos contamination might manifest as discoloured patches or irregular textures.
It is difficult to identify visually, so professional asbestos testing is essential to confirm its presence.
Yes, asbestos can be found in garden soil. Soil near older buildings, demolished structures, or contaminated fill may contain asbestos fibres. Avoid disturbing the soil and contact a licensed professional for testing and removal.
Managing soil asbestos requires professional assessment and handling. Preventative measures include soil testing, proper containment, and working with a licensed asbestos assessor and removal contractor to ensure safe excavation and disposal.
Licensed removalists can test, contain, and safely dispose of contaminated soil in line with WA regulations.
Yes. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral composed of thin, fibrous crystals in certain rock formations worldwide. It was widely used in construction and industrial applications for its durability, fire resistance, and insulation.
Stop work immediately and isolate the area. Contact a licensed asbestos assessor or removalist to test and manage the soil before continuing any excavation.
Amphibole asbestos, including crocidolite and amosite, is highly durable and can persist in soil for decades. Long-term monitoring and professional removal are essential to prevent exposure.
