Asbestos in remote communities

Is it safe for children to play near any damaged buildings that may contain asbestos?

Where can I dispose of any asbestos material/s?

Answers

Is it safe for children to play near any damaged buildings that may contain asbestos?

No. If the damaged building does contain asbestos there is the potential for children to be exposed to asbestos fibres if the material is disturbed. There may also be pieces of asbestos lying on the ground.

Any damage must be reported immediately to the building owner or Community Council who will ensure that the site is isolated to keep children and others out of the area.

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Where can I dispose of any asbestos material/s?

The law requires that all asbestos cement sheeting and off-cuts, pipes, insulation, collected dust, and protective clothing must be wrapped, labeled and disposed of only at a site licensed by the Office of Environment and Heritage (phone Darwin, 08 8924 4139 and Alice Springs 08 8951 9201). It is illegal to dispose of it with your weekly rubbish collection. Asbestos waste can be disposed of through an authorised local council tip (contact your local council for further information).

Asbestos bags already labeled may be purchased from a supplier of safety equipment.

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Other FAQ Categories

General asbestos questions

Health risks

Handling asbestos

Testing for asbestos

Asbestos in schools including answers for parents