Packaging and labelling asbestos

For non-workplaces the following guidelines for packaging asbestos, based on WorkSafe's Removing asbestos in workplaces compliance code(opens in a new window), should be observed.

Asbestos cement sheetings (AC sheetings) and asbestos cement pipes

1. Thoroughly wet the articles and maintain in a wet condition until packaged for transport.
2. Minimise cutting or breaking of articles to be packed.
3. For packaging, place two layers of polythene sheeting, approximately 200 μm (0.2 mm) thick, in the cargo-carrying compartment of the vehicle.
4. Place articles carefully on polythene sheeting to a height of less than 1 m and completely wrap the articles. Seal with adhesive tape. Packages should be small enough to be handled easily.
5. Label the package with the asbestos warning mark.

Insulated lagged pipes, boilers, heaters and equipment

1. Double-wrap the entire article with polythene sheets, approximately 200 μm (0.2 mm) thick, and seal with adhesive tape.
2. Label the package with the asbestos warning mark.

Asbestos dust and friable asbestos

1. Contain the asbestos waste in a polythene-lined drum or bin. This should be carried out in wet condition, except where wetting down is not practicable.
2. Fix the drum or bin lid securely using a suitable device (eg, toggle clips, screws, or bolt).
3. Label each drum with the asbestos warning mark (see below).

OR

1. Contain the asbestos waste in double polythene bags approximately 200 μm (0.2 mm) thick. A maximum bag size of 1200 mm (length) x 900 mm (width) should be used. The bagged dust should be wetted before the bags are tied and the loaded weight should not exceed 30 kg. Bags should only be filled to be half full.
2. Tie each bag. Bags need to be twisted tightly and have the neck folded over and secured with appropriate adhesive tape (for example, cloth tape with a plastic coating that can be easily decontaminated).
3. Label each bag with asbestos warning mark (see below).

Slurry containing asbestos fibre and dust

1. Place waste into drums, as above.
2. Label each container with the asbestos warning mark (see below).
3. Or use other methods of packaging, transport and disposal as approved in writing by EPA.

Asbestos tiles, gaskets, brake linings, clutch plates, acoustic insulation, non-bonded textiles, gloves, protective clothing and respirators

1. Place material in double polythene bags, approximately 200 μm (0.2 mm) thick.
2. A maximum bag size of 1200 mm (length) x 900 mm (width) should be observed.
3. Tie each bag. Bags need to be twisted tightly and have the neck folded over and secured with appropriate adhesive tape (for example, cloth tape with a plastic coating that can be easily decontaminated).
4. Label the package with the asbestos warning mark.
5. Place the packages in an enclosed skip for transportation.

Dangerous goods label

Note: Packaged dangerous goods only need to be marked with UN number, proper shipping name and Dangerous Goods Class label.

Asbestos warning marking

CAUTION
ASBESTOS

DO NOT OPEN
OR DAMAGE BAG

DO NOT INHALE DUST

The dimensions of this marking should be approximately 75 mm X 90 mm.