​Asbestos is naturally occurring mineral fibre that has excellent fire resistance, insulation properties, fibre strength, durability and flexibility. As a result, asbestos was used extensively in manufacturing of asbestos products used in the construction and manufacturing industries between the 1940’s to 1970’s.

In the Northern Territory, many buildings were constructed using asbestos containing material, specifically in walls, ceilings, roofs, eaves, fire doors, floor tiles and in mechanical services plant rooms.

Asbestos containing material is classified into two categories, friable asbestos and non friable asbestos.

Friable asbestos means material that can be crumbled, pulverised or reduced to a powder by hand pressure when dry that contains asbestos.

Non-friable asbestos means material containing asbestos that is not friable, including material containing asbestos fibres reinforced with a bonding component.

Asbestos is a known carcinogen and inhalation of these fibres can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis after a long latency period. As a result, the use of asbestos has been banned in Australia.

The following information bulletins have been developed to provide guidance to manage and control risks associated with the presence of asbestos at the workplace.

Due to the safety risks involved, asbestos should be removed by a licensed asbestos removalist. If material is found in the workplace and suspected to contain asbestos, a licensed asbestos removalist should be contacted to conduct sampling.