Victoria specific information
The CEPU (PTEU) has released a fabulous DVD featuring well-known AFL coach and former plumber, Kevin Sheedy: Asbestos the hidden killer. In the video Kevin takes a 'tour' of a house with asbestos, discusses what asbestos looks like and where it is commonly found. It is aimed particularly at plumbers and electricians, with advice from the secretaries of the Plumbing and Electrical divisions of the
union. However, it has great information for anyone who may have questions about where asbestos might be and what it looks like.
View the DVD online: CEPU/PTEU Asbestos information page
- WorkSafe - to check whether a company is a licensed asbestos removalist, go to this page. For enquiries relating to removal work carried out in the workplace or home by a licensed asbestos removalist: Telephone (03) 9641 1444, Toll-free 1800 136 089.
Also contact WorkSafe if you are concerned about how an asbestos removal job is being carried out if it is a workplace. This includes a home where commercial work is being undertaken (eg a company removing asbestos; renovations; etc).
WorkSafe also has a series of information bulletins on asbestos that can be downloaded from the website. These include information for on how occupiers and employers can comply with their duty to identify, assess and control any risk associated with asbestos in workplaces, how to undertake risk assessments and control plans:
- A dedicated Asbestos website (a Victorian Government website: joint WorkSafe, EPA, Department of Health)
- The Asbestos Topic information page
- Two Compliance Codes: Managing asbestos in workplaces and Removing asbestos in workplaces
- A very useful publication with general information: Asbestos - A Handbook for workplaces
- Recycling Construction and Demolition Material - jointly developed with and endorsed by the EPA and Sustainability Victoria, describes an auditable procedure to verify that asbestos-containing material has been removed from construction and demolition materials prior to recycling
- Asbestos-contaminated soil - provides advice for any person (including employers, removalists and commercial contractors) inspecting, removing, transporting or disposing of asbestos-contaminated soil.
- Removing asbestos before demolition or refurbishment - provides advice about identifying and removing fixed or installed asbestos before demolition or refurbishment work is carried out in a workplace, or on plant or machinery.
- National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) - the regulations specify that the analysis of asbestos samples can only be done by NATA registered laboratories. NATA has offices around Australia. Check the NATA website. The phone number for the Victorian/Tasmanian office is (03) 9274 8200
- List of VTHC Removalists: on this site, for removalists who are licensed by the WorkSafe and have also agreed to abide by the VTHC Code of Conduct.
- More information on this site on Asbestos in the Home and what to do.
- Asbestos Diseases Support Groups - all of which do a wonderful job assisting those who have contracted an asbestos-related disease, and their families. They have had and continue to have a crucial role in raising awareness and lobbying government to take action.
- Environment Protection Authority Victoria Information Centre - for a disposal landfill site in your area, and enquiries relating to the correct disposal of asbestos materials: Telephone (03) 9695 2722 EPA website
More Asbestos in the home information
- South Australia also has a general asbestos website: asbestos.sa.gov.au which provides advice for both the public and employers/workers
- Your Local Council (Chief Environmental Health Officer) - for inquiries or complaints regarding the incorrect removal or disposal or asbestos in your neighbourhood. (Refer to the phone directory)
Other Australian information: