Asbestos Removal

Finding out you have asbestos on site can feel like a shutdown notice for your company. The good news for you, your employees and customers is that many businesses can continue trading during asbestos removal.

In this guide, we explain safety-related asbestos removal business trading options.

Read on to learn how you may be able to stay productive during commercial demolition at your worksite.

Can a business continue trading during asbestos removal?

Yes, a company may be able to continue trading while an asbestos removal project is underway.

Ideally, the work area can be fully isolated and a safe system of work put in place.

The final decision depends on the asbestos location, the material type, and whether occupied areas can be kept separate from the removal zone.

  • Ongoing productivity is often possible when the removal area can be sealed, well ventilated, and access controlled.
  • The business may need to close, temporarily, when safe separation cannot be maintained or when essential access, fire routes, or services are affected.

When must a business stop trading during asbestos removal?

A business must stop trading, or at least close the affected areas, when safe separation cannot be guaranteed or when the risk to occupants cannot be controlled to an acceptable level. This is a legal and safety requirement under NSW work health and safety rules.

  • A licensed asbestos assessor has confirmed asbestos is present.
  • The asbestos is in a reception, central corridor, open-plan workspace, or shared service area.
  • Staff, customers, or visitors would need to pass through the work zone or contractor transit route.
  • The removal works compromise fire exits, emergency access, or ventilation systems.
  • The material is friable asbestos, or its condition makes containment unreliable.
  • Air monitoring or clearance testing cannot be completed without evacuating the area.

What conditions allow a business to keep operating?

Your business may be able to maintain operations after a site inspection by an experienced, licenced contractor and the creation of a detailed work plan, including considerations for containment, access control, decontamination, waste removal, and emergency procedures.

  • The removal area is fully enclosed with negative pressure and sealed barriers.
  • Staff and customers do not enter the enclosure, contractor route, or waste route.
  • Contractors use a separate entrance and transit path away from occupied spaces.
  • Hazardous waste can be removed without risking contamination of public or occupied areas.
  • Fire exits and emergency arrangements must be accessible at all times.
  • The building’s ventilation does not compromise segregation or containment.
  • Suitable air monitoring and clearance inspection are arranged before reoccupation.

How is safe separation achieved on site?

Safe separation is achieved by isolating the removal zone with physical barriers, controlled access, and negative pressure containment. This prevents asbestos fibres from migrating into occupied areas and keeps people out of the work zone.

  • Install sealed barriers and signage to define the asbestos work area.
  • Use negative pressure enclosures with HEPA filtration for friable or high-risk work.
  • Set up a dedicated contractor entrance, transit route, and waste route.
  • Establish decontamination units for workers and equipment before exiting the enclosure.
  • Maintain continuous air monitoring where required and restrict access until clearance.

What are the legal duties for commercial asbestos removal in NSW?

Commercial asbestos removal NSW must adhere to SafeWork NSW guidelines and regulations. Your contractor should have a plan to minimise risks, and only licensed removalists may carry out work above threshold quantities.

  • A licensed asbestos removalist must hold a Class A or Class B licence issued by SafeWork NSW.
  • A written plan of work, risk assessment, and safe work method statement are required before work starts.
  • A competent person must complete air monitoring, decontamination, and the clearance inspection.
  • Waste material must be tightly sealed in plastic, labelled and taken only to a licensed disposal facility.

What scheduling options reduce disruption to trading?

Scheduling options can reduce disruption by aligning removal with quieter periods, working outside normal hours, or completing the job in phases. This allows a business to maintain revenue and service levels while meeting safety obligations.

  • Evening or weekend work to avoid peak trading hours.
  • Phased removal by room, floor, or department to keep parts of the site open.
  • Temporary relocation of teams to another part of the site or to remote work.
  • Arrange for shutdowns during public holidays or maintenance windows.
  • Separate contractor access for workers, equipment, and waste so company employees can easily avoid occupied areas.

FAQs

Can my business stay open during asbestos removal?

Yes, if the removal area can be fully separated and a safe system of work is in place.

When must I close my business for asbestos removal?

You must close when you can’t maintain safe separation or when essential access, fire routes, or ventilation are affected.

Do I need a licensed asbestos removalist for commercial work?

Yes, only a SafeWork NSW licensed asbestos removalist may carry out commercial asbestos removal above threshold quantities.

How long does commercial asbestos removal take?

Duration depends on the quantity, type, and location of asbestos, and whether work is done in phases or during off-hours.

What happens if asbestos is disturbed accidentally?

Work stops, the area is evacuated, access is restricted, and a competent person assesses the situation before any further action.

Continue Trading During Asbestos Removal with Southern Highlands Demolition

At Southern Highlands Demolition, we cover the Southern Highlands and surrounding areas of NSW. We provide licensed asbestos removal and commercial demolition, always focusing on safety, and we always consider all options for asbestos removal business trading opportunities.

For practical, honest advice on asbestos removal and your options for ongoing business productivity, contact us today to discuss your requirements and for a free, no-obligation site assessment and quote.