Asbestos in a workplace

Information to identify, manage, remove and dispose of asbestos, and legal duties that apply in different situations, as an employer, self-employed person, worker or commercial property owner.
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Many Western Australian workplaces built or renovated before the mid-1990s may still contain asbestos. Asbestos-containing materials (ACM) were commonly used in roofing materials, insulation, wall linings, flooring and plant or equipment.

The only reliable way to determine whether asbestos is present is through inspection and testing by a licensed asbestos assessor and a National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) accredited laboratory. ACM cannot be confirmed simply by sight.

As an employer, also known as a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU), this page provides practical guidance to help you understand your asbestos-related obligations including how to maintain an asbestos register, developing an asbestos management plan and knowing when to engage a licensed asbestos removalist.

Gavel to represent law

Asbestos and the law

Learn about your legal responsibilities when managing, removing or working with asbestos in Western Australia.
Asbestos chrysotile fibers

What does asbestos look like?

Learn what asbestos is, where it is commonly found, and how to handle it safely.
Chest x-ray

Asbestos health risks

Learn why asbestos is dangerous and how exposure can affect your health.
Removing asbestos

Removing asbestos

Requirements on how asbestos should be managed during removal, minor works or maintenance procedures.
Asbestos workers and removalists

Asbestos workers and removalists

Learn about asbestos removalists, licensing requirements, and how to check if someone is qualified to work with asbestos in Western Australia.
Trades, contractors and recyclers

Trades , contractors and recyclers

What you need to know about working with asbestos if you are a tradesperson, contractor or recycler in Western Australia.
Asbestos and fibrous minerals in mining

Asbestos and fibrous minerals in mining

Naturally occurring asbestos (NOA) can present significant hazards in mining operations.
Asbestos in soil, mulch and other products or materials

Asbestos in soil, mulch and other materials

Advice for people who manage or control a workplace where soil is contaminated with asbestos-containing material.
Asbestos safety after an emergency or disaster

Asbestos safety after an emergency or disaster

Advice for people cleaning up after storms, bushfires, flood, buildings fires and other incidents involving asbestos.
Asbestos information for local government

Asbestos information for local government

Advice to help local governments manage asbestos exposure risks for both residents in their local government area (LGA) and workers in council workplaces.
Find an asbestos removalist and testing lab

Find licensed asbestos removalists and NATA accredited laboratories

Information to help you locate a licensed asbestos removalist or a NATA accredited lab in your area.
Who to contact?

Who to contact?

If you suspect asbestos or need advice, there are several organisations that can help.

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