Emergencies such as fires, floods or storms can damage buildings and release asbestos fibres into the air. Breathing in these fibres can cause serious illness such as asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. Because airborne or respirable asbestos fibres are invisible and can be harmful even in small amounts, it is important to avoid disturbing debris and to follow safety advice.
Fire
Fire can cause asbestos materials to crack or shatter, releasing fibres into debris and ash. This creates the greatest risk during clean-up. After a fire, there may be damaged asbestos on a property, such as asbestos cement sheeting (fences, walls, roofs, eaves). Burnt asbestos products are more likely to release airborne asbestos fibres, so it is crucial to take safety precautions to prevent dust and fibres from being disturbed.
Learn more about fire damaged asbestos and what to do after a fire.
Floods or storms
Floods, strong winds and storms can damage homes and buildings that contain asbestos. If asbestos materials are eroded, broken or easily reduced to dust (friable), they can release fibres that pose a serious health risk.
Always follow advice from emergency services and councils, and do not enter damaged properties until they are declared safe. If you suspect asbestos, contact a competent person or licensed asbestos assessor before starting any clean-up.
Asbestos can be found in many building types, and so it must be managed and disposed of safely. To reduce risk, never disturb debris and always seek expert guidance for safe handling and removal.
Precautions after an emergency
Always follow the instructions of emergency services and clean-up crews on site. Key safety measures to follow include:
- do not enter your property until authorities confirm it is safe
- keep children and animals away from the site
- wear a P2 face mask and protective clothing, for example, sturdy boots and gloves, even if you are unsure whether asbestos is present
- avoid spreading ash or moving debris by sweeping or vacuuming, especially if asbestos materials were present in your home or other structures
- do not bury building rubble, as it may contain hazardous materials such as asbestos
- engage a licensed asbestos assessor to inspect the site and contain any debris until their site assessment is complete. If asbestos is confirmed, contact a licensed asbestos removalist to arrange safe clean-up.
- lightly dampen ash and debris with water to reduce dust. Never use high-pressure sprays.
Learn more about precautionary measures after a flood, storm, or disaster.
Homes may be unsafe to enter after a fire. Find out how to safely access and clean-up your home, and what to wear when you enter. Read more on recovering from a fire in the home.
Notification in the case of an emergency
If you are a licensed asbestos removalist, you must notify us immediately if asbestos removal work is required urgently because of an emergency. An emergency is when a structure or plant is structurally unsound or its collapse is imminent. Emergency work still requires a clearance before people can re‑enter the area.
If asbestos must be removed immediately due to an emergency, you must contact WorkSafe by telephone on 1300 307 877 (during business hours or the next business day if outside of business hours) and submit the notification of all licensed asbestos removal work within 24 hours. WorkSafe will then review the information and grant approval to proceed if required.
Learn more about asbestos removal notifications.
Print this page
