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Handling asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally found in rock formations. Asbestos fibres are strong, heat-resistant and have insulating properties.

Asbestos products are now banned but were commonly used in residential buildings until the late 1980s - especially in eaves, wall cladding, roofing, around pipes in bathrooms and laundries, and fences.

Why you need to handle asbestos carefully

Asbestos can be a serious health risk when a person breathes in the fibres. It can cause a range of diseases including mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis.

Because of these dangers, laws apply on how asbestos is handled and disposed of. Make sure a licensed asbestos removalist is used to handle, transport and dispose of asbestos.

Not all transfer stations and landfills accept asbestos. Go to the EPA website for a list of Victorian landfills licensed to receive asbestos.

Report asbestos handling or damage

Work or building site

If you believe asbestos is not being handled correctly or is damaged on a work or building site, contact WorkSafe Victoria.

Work on private land

If you believe asbestos is not being handled correctly or is damaged on a neighbouring property (not part of a work or building site), we recommend you discuss the matter with the property owner. You can refer them to this page for information about the dangers of handling asbestos.

The Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria has some good advice on how to approach your neighbour.

If you are unable to resolve the matter contact us. Council’s Environmental Health Team will investigate the matter within 48 hours.

If you believe you have come in contact with Asbestos you can report this incident on the National Asbestos Exposure Register.

Work on Council land

If you see damaged asbestos on Council land, contact us

More information about asbestos

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