Asbestos is categorized into three main classes which are: class A, class B, and class C. Note that asbestos removal is a complicated process and will require specialisation, specific skills, and resources to administer removal successfully. All asbestos removalists are required to obtain a license, and all asbestos works should conform to the Australian standards and must follow the code of practice.
Friable asbestos is subsumed as class A asbestos which is also characterized as “powdery” and can be easily crushed by hands. With the slightest pressure of your hand, asbestos fibres may be released into the air, which can result in serious health problems. Friable asbestos is expected to contain 100% asbestos and is also considered as the most dangerous type of asbestos.
Class A asbestos works must be conducted under full containment, including the use of air filtration devices and sealed airlocks. At JC Asbestos Removal, we use personal protective equipment (PPE) and full work gears which are required for any asbestos removal job. Safety gears and equipment are important as friable asbestos are likely to release fibres during the removal. The wet removal method is most used in class A asbestos removal as it can reduce airborne asbestos fibres. However, an asbestos assessor is needed in the area to monitor the air quality level and ensure that it is asbestos free.
Class B asbestos is considered bonded and non-friable, which are typically mixed and sealed to products. Non-friable asbestos is bounded tightly and cannot be easily crumbled, which makes it a safer product if compared to class A. They are considered safe if maintained and has low risk if left undisturbed.
A Class B asbestos removalist must obtain a class B license to remove non-friable asbestos. However, a class A asbestos removalist may also remove non-friable asbestos with the supervision of class B supervisors. It is also important to remember that class B asbestos can develop into class A due to strong vibrations, sanding, drilling, etc.
Class C asbestos works involve repair and maintenance of the former asbestos contaminated area. Class C asbestos workers will ensure that your property is rebuilt to better specifications. This type of asbestos removal needs extra care as you do not want to disturb other asbestos-containing materials (ACM) in the area (if any).
Note that class C asbestos work does not serve the purpose of asbestos removal but to repair the former asbestos contaminated area. The use of wet method, sanding, drilling, and breaking the ACM thermal system insulation are a few examples of class C asbestos work.
With asbestos removal works, it is important that you should seek professional help. Do not try to remove the ACM yourself! (even if you can)
