Ask an Asbestos Expert: What’s the Difference Between Class A and Class B Asbestos Removalists?

There are a different terms that you may hear when you enter into the world of asbestos removal and as we continue with our content series where we answer questions about asbestos from Melbourne homeowners, we’re going to clear up some of the most commonly heard but misunderstood ones.

Today we’re going to discuss asbestos removal licenses, including highlighting the difference between class A and class B asbestos removal licences.

These terms can seem daunting at first, but they’re crucial in ensuring the safe removal of asbestos.

Here’s what you need to know.

What is a Class A asbestos removal licence?

A Class A asbestos removal licence is the highest level of licensing for asbestos removalists. It authorises the holder to remove both non-friable and friable asbestos. Friable is asbestos is very dangerous and is the type that can be easily crumbled or reduced to a powder by hand pressure. This licence also allows the removal of asbestos-contaminated dust (ACD) and debris, making it essential for handling the most hazardous asbestos removal work.

What is a Class B asbestos removal licence?

A Class B asbestos removal licence permits the holder to remove non-friable asbestos. Non-friable asbestos, also known as bonded asbestos, is more stable and less likely to release fibres unless disturbed or damaged. This licence covers the removal of materials like asbestos cement sheets, floor tiles, and water pipes.

What are the key differences?

The key difference between the two licences lies in the type of asbestos they’re authorised to remove. Class A licence holders conduct both non-friable and friable asbestos removal, handling more hazardous situations, while Class B licence holders are restricted to non-friable asbestos materials.

Which one is better?

“Better” depends on the asbestos removal needs. For higher-risk situations involving friable asbestos or ACD, a Class A licensed removalist is necessary. For projects involving stable, non-friable materials, a Class B licensed removalist is sufficient.

When will I need Class A vs Class B?

Determining whether you need a Class A or Class B licensed removalist depends on the type of asbestos present. If you’re dealing with or suspect the presence of friable asbestos in your property, a Class A licensed professional is required. For non-friable asbestos materials, a Class B licensed removalist can safely do the job.

Scenario Example:

Imagine you’re renovating an old shop in Melbourne that’s been around since the ’60s.

You stumble upon some old insulation material and suspect it might be asbestos. Given its age and crumbly appearance, you’re worried it could be the friable type.

In this case, reaching out for a professional asbestos inspection is your first step. The inspector confirms it’s friable asbestos, meaning you’ll need a Class A licensed asbestos removalist to safely handle and remove the material, ensuring it’s done according to health and safety standards and minimising the risk to you and your workers.

How Asbestos Australia can help

Asbestos Australia is equipped with both Class A and Class B licensed asbestos removalists, ready to tackle any asbestos challenge across Melbourne, Victoria, and beyond. Our team can assess your asbestos removal needs, whether it involves friable or non-friable asbestos, and carry out the removal process with the utmost care, ensuring the safety of all occupants and compliance with regulatory standards.

Worried about asbestos on your property? Get in touch by calling us on 03 9704 2952 or making an enquiry here.

Tommy Clappers

Tommy Clappers is the Owner and Founder of Asbestos Australia Removalist specialising as a Class A & B Licensed Company with highly trained ticketed staff with over 25+ years in the industry in Friable & Non-Friable Commercial, Industrial & Domestic. He's well-skilled in all types of Asbestos Removal and Hazardous Materials. He's an expert in Encapsulation, Soil Remediation and Industrial Cleaning. He prides himself on creating safer environments for his team and his client's safety and ensuring every removal is safe and clean. He currently resides in Melbourne, Australia.

Posted By: Tommy Clappers