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What to Do When Asbestos is in the Soil
Asbestos in soil might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about asbestos contamination, but it’s a hidden danger that can materially affect human health and the environment.
Whether it stems from illegal dumping, improper demolition, or naturally occurring asbestos, asbestos-contaminated soil is a serious issue that requires careful management.
Let’s explore how asbestos soil contamination happens, the risks it poses, and how to safely remediate contaminated land.
Asbestos contamination in soil is more common than you might think, especially in areas with older buildings, industrial sites, or locations prone to illegal dumping. Some of the most common ways asbestos finds its way into the soil include:
Demolition waste: Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), such as asbestos cement materials or friable asbestos products, are often improperly disposed of during building demolitions.
Illegal dumping: Some individuals or businesses dispose of asbestos waste unlawfully, contaminating land and creating a public health hazard.
Naturally occurring asbestos: In certain areas, asbestos exists naturally in rock formations and can enter the soil through erosion or land disturbance.
Once asbestos is in the soil, activities like digging, construction, or landscaping can disturb the soil surface and generate airborne asbestos fibres, posing risks to workers and nearby residents.
The risks of asbestos-contaminated soil
The presence of asbestos in soil is more than just an environmental concern—it’s a direct risk to human health. Disturbing asbestos-contaminated soil can release airborne fibres, which are invisible and highly dangerous when inhaled. Here’s what’s at stake:
Health risks: Asbestos fibres can cause serious conditions, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. The risk posed increases with prolonged exposure.
Environmental hazards: Contaminated sites can spread asbestos fibres through wind, water runoff, or soil movement, affecting surrounding areas.
Affected populations: Workers, residents near contaminated land, and individuals handling asbestos materials without proper protection are at the highest risk.
How to deal with asbestos in soil safely
Managing asbestos-contaminated soil requires strict adherence to safety legislation and professional expertise. Here are the steps to safely address asbestos in soil:
Identifying the contamination:
Engage a licensed asbestos assessor to evaluate the site and identify the extent of contamination. This includes determining whether friable asbestos materials or non-friable asbestos are present.
Immediately halt activities on contaminated sites to minimise the release of fibres.
Use barriers or signage to restrict access to the area.
Remediation strategies:
Excavation and removal: Contaminated soil is carefully excavated and transported to licensed disposal facilities for safe handling. This should be done by licensed asbestos removalists.
Encapsulation: In some cases, contaminated soil can be sealed beneath a geotextile membrane or buried under clean top soil to prevent exposure.
Soil replacement: Replacing contaminated soil with uncontaminated material ensures the site is safe for future use.
Post-remediation checks:
Conduct air monitoring and soil testing to confirm the effectiveness of the remediation process.
Obtain certification from licensed assessors to ensure compliance with environmental legislation.
Preventing asbestos soil contamination
Preventing asbestos in soil starts with awareness and responsible practices. Here’s how to minimise the risk:
Regular inspections: If you suspect asbestos materials are present on your property, engage professionals to assess and manage the risk.
Education and compliance: Understand and follow all relevant safety legislation for managing asbestos materials, particularly during construction or land development.
The role of professionals in managing asbestos soil contamination
Dealing with asbestos soil contamination is not a DIY job. Licensed asbestos removalists and assessors have the expertise, equipment, and certifications required to handle asbestos-contaminated soils safely and effectively. We ensure that all asbestos waste is disposed of according to strict environmental legislation, protecting both public health and the environment.
Safeguarding land and lives with Asbestos Australia
Asbestos in soil is a hidden threat that demands immediate attention and professional handling. By addressing asbestos-contaminated sites with the right tools and knowledge, you can reduce risks and restore safety to affected land.
Asbestos Australia is your trusted partner for asbestos management. From identifying asbestos in soil to comprehensive remediation and air monitoring, our team ensures that contaminated land is handled safely and in compliance with all regulations. Contact us today for further advice and let us help you protect your health, your environment, and your peace of mind.
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