What is a Occupational Hygienist?

Occupational hygienists identify, evaluate and control exposure to workplace hazards that may include chemicals, dust, fumes, noise, radiation, vibration and extreme temperatures.

What is asbestos?

Is a naturally forming mineral fibre that was used in construction for its great resistant to fire, electricity and corrosion. However it was also discovered to cause mesothelioma and lung cancer from breathing in the fibres. The 6 types of commercial asbestos are chrysotile, crocidolite, tremolite, amosite and actinolite. Manufacturing asbestos products stopped in 1980s and its use was banned completely in Australia after 31 December 2003.

What is Air Monitoring?

Collecting airborne fibres to analyse if they are asbestos fibres and if the amount is a danger to persons. An air monitoring program is not always necessary for the removal of non-friable asbestos material, however it is regarded as good occupational hygiene practice.

Where can asbestos be disposed of safely?

Asbestos waste can only be disposed of at specific landfills, you can access asbestossafety.gov.au for a list of these landfills, and make sure you call before you go.