Questions to ask your asbestos specialist

Although it is an incredibly regulated industry, there are still individuals who will tell you they can remove asbestos but not have the relevant licence in place.

An asbestos removal certificate is NOT an asbestos licence.

The Class B Asbestos Removal Licence is required to remove non-friable (bonded) asbestos. This licence is awarded by WorkSafe WA based on signifiant levels of experience, compliance and safety documentation.

• A certificate to remove asbestos can be obtained in a one-day training course. Certificate-holders may work for a licenced asbestos company only, but not for themselves.

• Insurers will not allow certificate-holders to take out Public Liability insurance for asbestos as they do not have a licence to perform the work.

Anyone can say they can remove asbestos, but the fact is it is at the detriment to the health and safety of your loved ones. They cannot guarantee the site is clear of cancer-causing asbestos fibres.

If you are unsure if your asbestos removalist is legitimate and can legally operate, you can take these steps to ensure your due-diligence:

1. Check their licence number on the WorkSafe WA website by visiting https://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/worksafe/worksafe-licence-and-registration-search

3. Ask them which documents they will be submitting to WorkSafe prior to the job commencement - this is a legal requirement for any asbestos removal.

2. Ask for a copy of their Public Liability insurance policy - it must be specific to asbestos removal.

3. Ask them how they intend to clean the site post-removal and if they have a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner as required by WorkSafe.

4. Ask them who will be performing the Independent Asbestos Assessment and providing certification at the end of the job that the site is safe to re-enter and free of deadly asbestos fibres.

If you have any questions or concerns around who holds a licence and who may not, simply give us a call on 08 9948 1206, or email info@northwestasbestos.com, and we will be happy to walk you through how to do your due-diligence.