Asbestos was once a common material used in Australian homes and buildings, but now, it’s a serious health hazard that must be handled with extreme care. It is crucial to take appropriate safety precautions when dealing with asbestos.
At Rapid Asbestos, we’re often asked: How is asbestos removed? Asbestos exposure poses significant health risks. Whether you’re worried about an old fence, roofing sheets, or internal walls, this guide will walk you through the process of asbestos removal in Perth.
What is asbestos containing materials?
Before we begin the removal process, it’s important to understand what we’re dealing with. Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) refer to any material that contains asbestos fibres. These may be non-friable (bonded, such as in cement sheeting) or friable (easily crumbled, more dangerous).
At Rapid Asbestos, we specialise in the safe removal of non-friable asbestos, which is commonly found in fencing, wall cladding, eaves, and garages. Although bonded asbestos is considered less hazardous than friable asbestos, it still requires expert removal and disposal.
Suspect you have asbestos at your property? Get an asbestos removal quote today.
Step 1: inspection and risk assessment
Every job begins with a professional asbestos inspection. This step identifies the type, location, and condition of the ACMs. We also assess whether the asbestos is non-friable or friable and develop a tailored removal plan in line with WA WorkSafe regulations.
If you’re unsure whether your property contains asbestos, it’s best not to disturb the material. Our licensed team can safely take samples and arrange for laboratory testing.
Tip: Before planning renovations, always have your property inspected for asbestos. Disturbing asbestos-containing materials without knowing it can release harmful fibres into the air, so identifying ACMs early can help you avoid costly delays and serious health risks.
You may also like our blog on When Did Asbestos Stop Being Used in Homes?
Step 2: preparing the site
Before we remove non-friable asbestos, the area is sealed off to prevent contamination. We use plastic sheeting, warning signs, and negative air units where required. Anyone not directly involved in the work is kept well clear of the site.
It is crucial to safely remove asbestos by following necessary precautions and procedures to protect health during the removal process. Our licensed technicians wear full PPE (personal protective equipment), including respirators and disposable coveralls, to remove asbestos safely and avoid exposure to airborne fibres.
Step 3: asbestos removal
Once the site is secure, we begin the physical removal of ACM, ensuring proper handling of asbestos materials. For non-friable asbestos, such as cement sheets, this involves carefully unscrewing or prying off panels to keep them intact. Breaking the material can release hazardous dust, so our goal is to remove it in whole sheets wherever possible.
It is crucial to use special sealants on asbestos material to prevent disturbance of asbestos fibers that could become airborne.
All asbestos waste is immediately double-bagged or wrapped in heavy-duty plastic, labelled clearly, and prepared for licensed transport and disposal.
You may also like our blog on Types of Asbestos Found in Perth Households
Require asbestos removal? Get a quote today.
Step 4: clean-up and air monitoring for asbestos fibres
Once the material is removed, we carry out a thorough clean-up of the site using HEPA-filtered vacuums and wet wiping methods. In some cases, independent air monitoring or clearance inspections may be conducted for added peace of mind, especially in workplaces, schools, or larger-scale sites.
Step 5: legal disposal
Asbestos cannot be disposed of with general waste. We transport all asbestos waste to an approved facility licensed to accept ACMs. You’ll receive the documentation needed for peace of mind and compliance.
If you’re wondering how to get rid of asbestos, this is the only safe and legal way, through licensed removal, transport, and disposal.
Choose a licensed asbestos removalist
When it comes to asbestos, there’s no room for shortcuts. Proper removal is essential for your health, your safety, and your peace of mind.
Hiring a licensed asbestos removalist is crucial for safe removal and disposal of asbestos, as they follow legal requirements and safety procedures to manage health hazards effectively.
At Rapid Asbestos, we’re fully licensed, experienced, and committed to providing safe, compliant, and efficient asbestos removal across Perth. Don’t take risks with asbestos. Choose the team that gets it done right the first time.
Get in touch with Rapid Asbestos today for a free quote or expert advice.
FAQs about how asbestos is removed
Asbestos is removed safely by licensed professionals who follow strict guidelines. This includes sealing off the area, wearing protective equipment, carefully removing non-friable asbestos sheets intact, and disposing of all asbestos waste at licensed facilities. Air monitoring and site clean-up are also part of the process to ensure no fibres remain.
The cost of asbestos removal depends on the size and complexity of the job. For non-friable asbestos, you can expect to pay around $50 per square metre. Minimum call-out fees may apply, and additional services like testing or air monitoring may increase the total cost. For an accurate quote, contact a licensed removalist like Rapid Asbestos.
In Western Australia, homeowners may be allowed to remove up to 10m² of non-friable asbestos without a licence, but strict safety precautions must be followed. However, DIY removal is risky and strongly discouraged. For safe, legal, and compliant ACM removal, it’s best to hire a licensed asbestos removal company.
To get rid of asbestos legally, you must have it removed by a licensed asbestos professional and disposed of at an authorised waste facility. It is illegal and dangerous to dispose of asbestos in general rubbish bins or skips. Rapid Asbestos takes care of the entire process, from removal to compliant disposal.
