11/03/2025
On the 30 December 2024, a SafeWork NSW inspector attended a site in Ryde in response to a Request for Service for inadequate Class B (non-friable) asbestos removal work to a single storey residential structure prior to demolition.
Upon inspector attendance, the asbestos removal works were in the final stages of completion and workers packing up. A clearance inspection by a Licensed Asbestos Assessor (LAA) was booked in for later in the afternoon.
Over the next week, the inspector's investigation found that two workers conducting licensed asbestos removal were not trained and had not undergone health monitoring. Additionally, there were no available safe work method statements (SWMS), an asbestos removal control plan (ARCP), or a training register. The nominated asbestos removal supervisor was also absent for the duration of the works.
A clearance certificate was provided from the LAA stating that a ‘visual clearance inspection was undertaken’ and ‘the asbestos removal work was completed to a satisfactory standard and no visible asbestos-containing debris was sighted’.
A follow up site visit on 8 January 2025 by SafeWork NSW inspectors determined asbestos panelling was still attached to the structure and asbestos fragments found on the ground around where the removal had occurred. Asbestos sheeting was observed in the kitchen areas and friable asbestos lagging was observed to pipework under the structure.
One prohibition notice, five improvement notices, five penalty notices amounting to $15,300 and a warning letter was issued to the licensed asbestos removalist. One improvement notice and one penalty notice amounting to $4,500 was issued to the LAA.
The remainder of the asbestos removal works were carried out by a Class A (friable) asbestos removalist.
Both Persons Conducting a Business Undertaking (PCBU’s) involved have the right to review notices issued.
You can find information about asbestos safety on our website: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/hazards-a-z/asbestos
