Asbestos
Removal
Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous crystalline mineral, found in rock formations. Generally, undisturbed asbestos cement products do not pose a health risk as the fibres are bound together in a solid cement matrix. However, if the material is damaged or disturbed, fibres may be released into the air.
The use of power tools for cutting, drilling, grinding, sanding or sawing the material can release a significant number of fibres. The use of high-pressure water blasters to clean the material prior to painting can also release large numbers of fibres so it's important to never perform these activities.
In most cases, the presence of asbestos cement building materials in a home (i.e. a dividing fence) is no cause for alarm. If the materials are in good condition and are not disturbed, they do not present a health hazard. Disturbing the material (i.e. by removal) may create a health hazard where none previously existed.
Any person handling and disposing of asbestos is required to comply with the requirements of the Health (Asbestos) Regulations 1992.
Businesses contracted to remove greater than 10m2 of asbestos are required by WorkSafe WA to hold an asbestos removal licence. Please refer to the WorkSafe website for a list of restricted and unrestricted licence holders.
If you are removing asbestos greater than 10m2 or applying for a demolition permit, please complete an Application of Demolition/Asbestos Removal Permit – Health Requirements and submit with the appropriate fee.
Asbestos online training
The Cancer Council WA and the Department of Health have launched a free online course on asbestos, where home renovators and DIYers can learn more about asbestos-related diseases and locating, safely handling and disposing of asbestos.
Register on the Cancer Council website today.
Disposal
Please contact the Millar Road Landfill and Recycling Facility on 9528 8550 or Henderson Waste Recovery Park on 9411 3444 for fees payable and procedures for correct disposal.
Aerosol cans
Aerosol cans are recyclable through the Household Hazardous Waste Program and the closest collection points are located at Henderson Waste Recovery Park or Millar Road Landfill and Recycling Facility. There is no cost to drop them at any facility.
Empty aerosol cans may also be handed to our Customer Service Officers at the City of Kwinana Administration Office or Works Depot during office hours. The City’s waste contractor will regularly collect the aerosols and deliver them to a Hazardous Waste facility for recycling.
Recycle Hubs
Recycle Hubs are located at the Darius Wells Library and Resource Centre and Kwinana Marketplace (near Coles).
The following items can be taken top the recycle hubs for correct disposal;
- household batteries;
- printer cartridges;
- mobile phones and chargers; and
- household light bulbs
Items placed in the hubs are recycled by Total Green Recycling and Planet Ark.
Household batteries must not be placed in either kerbside bin. Batteries can also be delivered to any facility that accepts Household Hazardous Waste, or the City's Administration Office.