WorkSafe ACT has raised concerns about widespread non-compliance with asbestos legislation.

Investigations are underway into eight businesses potentially breaching Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws by failing to identify and safely remove asbestos from older properties.

Work Health and Safety Commissioner Jacqueline Agius says the lack of compliance is alarming.

“We are seeing a complete disregard for the law in relation to safe asbestos management, especially in home renovations,” she said. 

The authorities say they want to remind homeowners of their right to question tradespeople and urged strict adherence to WHS requirements. 

Under ACT legislation, homes built before 2003 are presumed to contain asbestos. 

With an estimated one in three pre-1990 Australian homes housing asbestos, safe management is critical. Asbestos-related diseases claim about 4,000 Australian lives annually, according to estimates.

The Asbestos and Silica Safety and Eradication Agency CEO, Jodie Deakes, echoed concerns.

“Tradespeople must be vigilant about the risks asbestos poses, not only to their own health but also to the wider public. Without proper identification and removal, renovations can lead to contamination and devastating consequences,” she said. 

WorkSafe ACT has vowed to enforce the regulations stringently, issuing notices, fines, and pursuing legal action for serious breaches. 

The agency and other stakeholders remain committed to implementing the National Strategic Plan to eliminate asbestos-related diseases across Australia.  

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