Asbestos removal is a critical, yet potentially dangerous, task for Sydney homeowners. Ensuring that asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are removed safely and professionally from your property is essential for the well-being of your family and any occupants. As a homeowner, you must entrust this vital job to a competent and experienced asbestos removal company. To help you determine the qualifications and capabilities of potential asbestos removalists, Sydney City Asbestos has compiled a list of the top 5 essential questions to ask.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the importance of each question and provide insights into what to look for in an asbestos removal company. By asking these critical questions, you can confidently choose a trustworthy service provider that will carry out the asbestos removal process with diligence, leaving your home safe and asbestos-free. Stay informed and make an informed decision for the safety of your loved ones.

1. Are You a Licensed Asbestos Removalist?

The first and arguably most important question to ask a potential asbestos removal company is whether they possess a valid asbestos removal license issued by SafeWork NSW. In Sydney, there are two types of asbestos removal licenses: a Class A license for friable asbestos removal and a Class B license for non-friable asbestos removal.

Class A removalists can handle both friable (loose and easily crumbled) and non-friable asbestos materials, while Class B removalists can only handle non-friable materials. When inquiring about the company’s license, it’s also a good idea to confirm that their employees have completed the necessary asbestos handling and removal training courses. Always request the asbestos removalist’s license number to verify their credentials before making a decision.

2. What Safety Procedures Do You Follow?

Asbestos removal is a delicate process, as improper handling can cause asbestos fibres to become airborne, posing a health risk to both workers and property occupants. To ensure everyone’s safety, reputable asbestos removal companies should follow stringent safety procedures. These may include:

– Detailed asbestos risk assessment and removal plans

– Secure containment of the work area to prevent the spread of asbestos fibres

– Use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for all workers

– Safe asbestos waste transportation and disposal in compliance with local regulations

– Proper decontamination procedures for workers, equipment, and vehicles

– Air monitoring during and after the removal process to ensure no residual asbestos fibres persist

Don’t hesitate to request documentation outlining the company’s safety procedures and ensure they meet industry guidelines and standards.

3. How Do You Dispose of Asbestos Waste?

Asbestos waste disposal is highly regulated in Sydney, as improper disposal can risk contaminating the environment and potentially harm human health. Ask the asbestos removal company about their waste disposal methods, and ensure they adhere to the NSW Environment Protection Authority’s (EPA) requirements, which include:

– Using sealed, labelled, and appropriately lined containers or vehicles for transporting asbestos waste

– Transporting asbestos waste only to an EPA-approved waste facility for lawful disposal

– Obtaining a waste consignment number for each asbestos waste load transported, as per the NSW EPA’s tracking requirements

Don’t be afraid to ask for documentation or proof of the company’s compliance with these requirements. Responsible asbestos disposal is crucial for the well-being of the community and environment.

4. Do You Provide a Clearance Inspection and Certificate?

Following the completion of asbestos removal, a clearance inspection is necessary to ensure that the work area is free of asbestos-containing materials and poses no ongoing health risk. Clearance inspections must be performed by an independent licensed asbestos assessor, who will issue a clearance certificate if the area is deemed safe.

Ensure that the asbestos removal company you choose facilitates this process. The clearance inspection conducted by a third-party assessor guarantees an unbiased assessment of the asbestos removal and offers reassurance that your property is indeed asbestos-free.

5. What Is the Estimated Cost and Timeline for the Asbestos Removal Project?

Budget and time constraints are always important considerations when selecting an asbestos removal service. It’s vital to obtain a detailed quotation from potential companies to compare costs and services. Ensure that the quotation includes the following:

– Scope of work

– Duration of the project

– Number of workers required

– Necessary compliance documentation

– Any permits required from relevant authorities

– Disposal fees and transportation costs

– Clearance inspection fee

Asking about the estimated timeline for the asbestos removal project is also critical, as it allows you to plan around the disruption to your property and ensure that adequate time is allocated to the process. Remember, choosing the cheapest quote might not always be the best option; carefully weigh the cost against the quality of service and adherence to safety standards.

Additional Considerations

Apart from these essential questions, other factors can help you make an informed decision when choosing an asbestos removal company. Personal recommendations from friends or neighbours, as well as online reviews, can provide valuable insights into the company’s reliability, professionalism, and customer satisfaction levels. It’s crucial to choose a company that demonstrates a strong commitment to safety, quality service and transparency in all aspects of their operations.

Choose the Right Asbestos Removal Company for a Safe Home

Finding the right asbestos removal company in Sydney is indispensable for the safety and well-being of your family and property. By asking the essential questions discussed above, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and choose a reliable, professional company that will comply with all safety regulations and deliver high-quality service.

If you’re in need of expert asbestos removal services in Sydney, look no further than Sydney City Asbestos. With years of experience and a dedicated team of licensed professionals, we are committed to ensuring your home is asbestos-free and safe for you and your loved ones. Contact us today to discuss your requirements, and let us handle the delicate process of asbestos removal with a keen attention to detail and commitment to safety.