Your Guide on Where to Dispose of Asbestos in Melbourne: Safe and Approved Sites

Asbestos disposal is a critical concern for both public health and the environment. This comprehensive guide provides you with essential information on where to dispose of asbestos in Melbourne safely and responsibly. By understanding the dangers of asbestos, identifying asbestos waste, and finding approved disposal sites, you can protect yourself, your loved ones, and the world around you.

Key Takeaways

  • Understanding asbestos and its dangers is essential to protect public health.
  • Safe disposal of commercial asbestos waste must be done in accordance with guidelines and regulations.
  • Victoria has established a ban on all types of asbestos, compliance codes, guidance documents and laws for safe disposal to protect public health & environment from contamination.

Melbourne Asbestos Disposal Locations

Locations provided as per the Environment Protection Authority.

Domestic asbestos only

ALEXANDRA 3714

122 Mount Pleasant Road

5772 0333

Call for an appointment

Only accepting small, approved quantities from within the municipality 

DRYSDALE 3222

Becks Road 

5251 2935 

Mon–Sun: 8 am – 4.15 pm

6×4 trailers only

FINGAL 3939

280 Truemans Road

5950 1000

Mon–Fri: 8 am – 4 pm

Sat/Sun and public holidays: 8 am – 5 pm

Up to 0.5 m3

GRANTVILLE 3984

1685 Bass Highway (via service road off Stanley Road)

5678 8739

Mon–Sun: 8.30 am – 4.30 pm

Local residents only – proof of residence required

KILMANY 3851

Velore Road

5142 3440 or  1300 366 244

Mon–Fri: 8 am – 5 pm

Sat–Sun: 9 am – 5 pm

KOONWARRA 3954

275 Koonwarra–Inverloch Road

03 5662 9200

Mon–Fri: 8 am – 4 pm

Call ahead to confirm.

LOY YANG 3844

Hyland Highway

1300 367 700

Call for an appointment.

WANDELLA 3579

Denyer Road

5450 9333

Appointment only.

Tue–Fri: 8.30 am – 5 pm

Commercial asbestos only

BULLA 3428

600 Sunbury Road

9307 1000

Mon–Fri: 6.30 am – 5.00 pm

Sat: 6.30 am – 1 pm

COSGROVE 3631

Lemnos Road, Cosgrove (Corner of Quarry Road and Cosgrove)

0408 996 173

Mon to Fri: 8 am to 3 pm

Sat: 9 am to 11 am

Call for an appointment.

LONGFORD 3851

Longford–Lochs Port Road, Dutson Downs

1800 066 401

Call for an appointment.

LYNDHURST 3975

890 Taylors Road

9702 8111

Call for an appointment

Mon–Fri: 7 am – 3 pm

RAVENHALL 3023

Melbourne Regional Landfill, 1100-1152 Christies Road

Mon- Fri: 7am – 4pm

Saturday and Sunday by appointment only.

Must book a day before. To book email, mrl@cleanaway.com.au

STAWELL 3380

492 Pomonal Road

 5352 1433

Mon–Fri: 8.30 am – 4 pm

Saturday by appointment only.

Both commercial and domestic asbestos

DOOEN 3401

81 Ladlows Road

5382 9777 or 5382 9750

Call for an appointment.

Mon–Fri: 8.30 am – 4 pm

EAGLEHAWK 3556

191–193 Upper California Gully Road

5446 3917

Mon to Fri: 8 am to 5 pm

Sat and Sun: 9 am to 5 pm

FORGE CREEK 3875 (near BAIRNSDALE)

200 Johnstons Road

5152 6535

Mon to Fri: 8 am to 5 pm

Sat and Sun: 9 am to 5 pm

FYANSFORD 3218

Lower Papermills Road

5224 2251

Mon to Fri: 8 am to 3:30 pm

Sat: 8 am to 1 pm

MILDURA 3500

Ontario Avenue

5018 8100

Mon to Fri: 8 am to 4 pm

Sat, Sun and public holidays: 9 am to 3.45 pm

Anzac Day: 1 pm to 3.45 pm

Closed: Good Friday, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day

PATHO 3564

320 Davis Road

5456 2500 or 0429 192 965

Call for an appointment.

PORTLAND 3305

Derrill Road, off Cape Nelson Road

5523 3768

Must call 24 hrs prior.

Mon–Fri: 8 am – 4.30 pm

Sat–Sun: 8.30 am – 4.30 pm

SMYTHESDALE 3351

1380 Glenelg Highway

5342 8540 or 5320 5500

Thu: 10 am – midday

SWAN HILL 3585

Swan Hill–Sea Lake Road

5032 9260

Mon–Fri: 9 am – 4 pm

Sat: 9 am – 2 pm

Sun: 9 am – 4 pm

TUERONG 3915

435 Balnarring Road

5989 7333

No smaller than 3-tonne trucks

Mon–Fri: 7 am – 3 pm

Sat: 7 am – 12 pm

WOLLERT 3750

45 Bridge Inn Road

9408 1299

Mon–Fri: 7 am – 4.45 pm

Sat: 7 am – 3 pm

Understanding Asbestos and Its Dangers

Asbestos is a hazardous material comprising asbestos fibres with heat and chemical-resistant properties. It is divided into two groups: serpentine asbestos, which includes chrysotile or white asbestos, and amphibole asbestos, which comprises five minerals: amosite, actinolite, crocidolite, tremolite, and anthophyllite. Given its hazardous nature, strict regulations govern asbestos disposal to safeguard public health and the environment.

The dangers of asbestos primarily stem from the health risks associated with exposure. Asbestos fibres can be easily inhaled, leading to severe health issues such as mesothelioma and lung-related diseases. This underscores the necessity for safe disposal of asbestos waste; improper handling and disposal could cause environmental contamination and heighten health risks.

Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure

When asbestos fibres become airborne, they pose a significant health risk. Asbestos exposure can lead to the development of mesothelioma, a type of cancer that primarily affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. Asbestos can also cause lung diseases, such as asbestosis, due to the inflammation and scarring of the lungs caused by inhalation of its fibres.

The symptoms associated with asbestos-related diseases include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Persistent dry cough
  • Chest tightness or chest pain
  • Weight loss
  • Coughing up of blood
  • Fatigue

While treatments are available to help manage symptoms, asbestosis is incurable, and the damage from the disease cannot be reversed. This points to the need for adequate disposal of commercial asbestos waste to avert additional exposure.

The Importance of Safe Asbestos Disposal

Proper asbestos disposal is essential to prevent environmental contamination and associated health risks. Practices that ensure the safe disposal of asbestos aid in minimising the release of asbestos fibres into the air, cutting down exposure risks and potential health hazards, including severe respiratory diseases. To dispose of asbestos effectively, following the appropriate guidelines and regulations is crucial.

Improper disposal of asbestos can disrupt natural asbestos deposits, contaminate soil, water, and air, and contribute to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. To prevent asbestos contamination at landfill sites, disposal methods that avoid generating asbestos dust and minimize the potential for asbestos fibres to be released into the air are employed.

Identifying and Handling Asbestos Waste

Asbestos-containing materials can be challenging to identify, as they are commonly used in various construction materials, such as cement sheets, corrugated cement roofs, and pipes in bathrooms and toilets. Laboratory testing and expert walkthrough inspections are the most reliable methods for identifying asbestos, and it’s not uncommon for asbestos to be found in these asbestos products.

Given the health hazards linked with asbestos exposure, handling asbestos waste properly is necessary to reduce exposure risks and comply with legal requirements. When handling asbestos wastes, essential safety precautions must be taken, such as:

  • Utilizing methods that reduce dust creation
  • Donning appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Discarding asbestos waste in sealed and labelled bags or containers

Following correct disposal procedures and regulations for asbestos waste is also important to avoid any penalties and legal consequences.

Recognising Asbestos-Containing Materials

The unique characteristics of asbestos necessitate laboratory testing for accurate identification. Asbestos fibres possess distinct physical attributes that can only be identified through laboratory analysis, as visual identification may not always be reliable. Laboratory testing for asbestos identification typically includes methods such as:

  • Phase-contrast microscopy
  • Polarized light microscopy
  • Transmission electron microscopy
  • Scanning electron microscopy

Given the difficulty in visually identifying asbestos, it’s essential to consult with experts to confirm the presence of materials containing asbestos in various structures, like cement sheets, corrugated cement roofs, and pipes in bathrooms and toilets. This guarantees that appropriate safety precautions are in place when handling and disposing of asbestos waste.

Proper Handling of Asbestos Waste

When handling asbestos waste, it is imperative to adhere to stringent safety protocols to guarantee the secure removal and disposal of asbestos. Some safety measures include:

  • Reducing dust generation
  • Using a Type H vacuum cleaner or wet rags to clean up
  • Wearing appropriate PPE
  • Disposing of asbestos waste in sealed and labelled bags or containers

Packaging asbestos waste in bags that are only half-filled and tied securely with the neck folded over and secured is suggested. Moreover, contacting a licensed landfill that accepts asbestos waste for proper disposal is essential. Adhering to these safety procedures protects the handlers and the environment from potential asbestos contamination.

Finding Approved Asbestos Disposal Sites in Melbourne

In Melbourne, approved asbestos disposal sites, also known as licensed landfills, are located at domestic and commercial facilities regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These facilities ensure the safe and compliant disposal of asbestos waste, protecting public health and the environment. It’s essential to contact the landfill beforehand to confirm if they accept asbestos waste and book a reservation if necessary.

Whether you are disposing of domestic or commercial asbestos waste, selecting an approved disposal facility ensures that the waste is handled and disposed of by government regulations. Using these facilities assures you that your asbestos waste is being handled responsibly and safely.

Domestic Asbestos Disposal Facilities

Domestic asbestos disposal facilities cater to small household amounts of asbestos waste and are subject to specific requirements for disposal. You can consult your local council or the Environment Protection Authority Victoria’s list of domestic asbestos landfills currently accepting waste for information on approved facilities.

When disposing of domestic asbestos waste at approved facilities in Melbourne, it is necessary to follow these steps:

  1. Hire a licensed asbestos removalist who is trained to remove the asbestos safely.
  2. The removalist will then dispose of the waste at approved commercial waste dumps.
  3. Before delivery, it is recommended to call the landfill to ensure appropriate steps are taken.

Commercial Asbestos Disposal Facilities

Commercial asbestos disposal facilities specialize in handling industrial and commercial asbestos waste.

The operating hours of commercial asbestos disposal facilities in Melbourne may vary, so it is advisable to contact the specific facility for their working hours. By utilizing commercial asbestos disposal facilities, you can ensure that your industrial or commercial asbestos waste is appropriately managed and disposed of, mitigating potential risks to public health and the environment.

Hiring Licensed Asbestos Removal Professionals

Hiring licensed asbestos removal professionals is essential for the safe and compliant handling and disposal of asbestos waste. These professionals possess the requisite qualifications and experience to manage asbestos waste effectively, ensuring that proper safety measures are taken throughout the process and that legal requirements are followed.

Hiring a licensed asbestos removalist offers several benefits:

  • Assurance that your asbestos waste is being managed by a professional trained in safe removal and disposal
  • Ensures your property is free of asbestos contamination
  • Waste is disposed of in an approved and responsible manner

Types of Asbestos Removal Licenses

There are two licenses for asbestos removal in Victoria: Class A and Class B. A Class A asbestos removal license authorizes the removal of both friable and non-friable asbestos, while a Class B license permits the removal of non-friable asbestos. The qualifications for obtaining these licenses include relevant experience, completion of appropriate training, and the provision of details for previous asbestos removal projects.

Selecting a licensed asbestos removalist with a suitable license for your specific asbestos waste needs is essential. Doing so ensures that the removal process is conducted safely and in compliance with all legal requirements, minimizing any potential risks to the handlers and the environment.

Finding Licensed Asbestos Removalists in Melbourne

You can refer to the directory of licensed removalists provided by the Victorian Government’s Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency to find a licensed asbestos removalist in Melbourne. This directory allows you to identify a licensed asbestos removalist in your area. Verifying the license of an asbestos removalist is essential to ensure that their qualifications and services meet the required standards.

Licensed asbestos removal professionals provide the following services:

  • Secure removal and disposal of asbestos-containing materials
  • Assessment and inspection of asbestos
  • Testing and analysis of suspected asbestos materials
  • Encapsulation
  • Site decontamination and cleanup

By hiring a licensed removalist, you can be confident they will safely and responsibly remove asbestos waste.

Asbestos Disposal Costs and Fees

Asbestos disposal costs in Melbourne begin at around $300, with prices ranging between $50 to $250 per tonne for asbestos waste. It is important to note that these costs can vary depending on several factors, such as the process of removal, the associated risk level, and the quantity of material that needs to be disposed of.

When budgeting for asbestos disposal, consider the following costs:

Factors Affecting Asbestos Disposal Costs

Several factors affect the cost of asbestos disposal, including:

  • The type and amount of asbestos material
  • Licensing requirements
  • The location and accessibility of the materials
  • The extent of contamination

For instance, friable asbestos, which is more hazardous and can quickly disperse fibres into the atmosphere, may necessitate specialized handling and disposal procedures, leading to higher disposal costs than non-friable asbestos.

The quantity of asbestos waste is directly proportional to the disposal costs; the more significant the amount of asbestos waste, the higher the disposal costs. Furthermore, disposal costs may also include transportation fees, landfill fees, and any necessary permits or certifications. It is advisable to contact licensed asbestos removal companies in Melbourne for an accurate quote based on your requirements.

Estimating Asbestos Disposal Fees

Asbestos disposal fees are usually calculated based on the amount of asbestos disposed. The costs can vary depending on the geographical area and the quantity of asbestos. Some disposal sites charge fees per kilogram of asbestos, while others may charge a flat fee or a fee based on the size of the area being disposed of. You should contact your local waste disposal site or asbestos removal company for more precise pricing information.

In addition to disposal fees, additional costs may be involved in transporting asbestos for disposal. Disposal costs can vary between licensed facilities and may be included in overall costs when engaging licensed asbestos removalists. Understanding the factors contributing to asbestos disposal costs can help you better plan and budget for your asbestos waste management needs.

Legal Requirements and Regulations for Asbestos Disposal

Strict legal requirements and regulations govern asbestos disposal in Victoria to safeguard public health and the environment. The Victorian government has banned the manufacture, supply, use, reuse, import, transport, storage, and sale of all types of asbestos. Furthermore, compliance codes and guidance documents provide additional information on asbestos disposal obligations.

Adhering to these legal requirements and regulations is essential when handling and disposing of asbestos waste. By doing so, you can protect yourself, your loved ones, and the environment from the potential dangers of asbestos exposure.

Victorian Asbestos Disposal Laws

In Victoria, several laws, compliance codes, and guidance documents regulate asbestos disposal. These laws and regulations apply to various situations, including industrial and domestic settings. For further information, you can visit the official website of Asbestos Victoria at https://www.asbestos.vic.gov.au/in-the-environment/laws-and-regulations.

The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) regulates asbestos disposal in Victoria. Owners of vehicles that transport industrial or commercially sourced waste asbestos must hold an EPA waste transport permit, ensuring that the transportation of asbestos waste is conducted safely and by regulations.

Penalties for Improper Asbestos Disposal

Both individuals and businesses can face penalties and legal consequences for improper asbestos disposal. In Victoria, on-the-spot fines for individuals can be as high as $7,500, while fines for infringement notice offences can range from $144 to $720 for individuals and $720 to $3,600 for businesses.

Moreover, rogue operators who illegally store or dump dangerous waste, including asbestos, could face up to 10 years in prison under new laws. The maximum jail term for illegal asbestos disposal is six months, emphasizing the seriousness of this offence. By adhering to the legal requirements and regulations for asbestos disposal, you can avoid these penalties and contribute to the protection of public health and the environment.

Summary

In conclusion, the proper disposal of asbestos is crucial to protect public health and the environment. By educating yourself on the dangers of asbestos, identifying asbestos waste, and finding approved disposal facilities in Melbourne, you can ensure the safe and responsible management of asbestos waste. Remember to hire licensed asbestos removal professionals, adhere to legal requirements and regulations, and plan for the costs associated with asbestos disposal to ensure a safe and healthy future for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Tamala Park take asbestos?

Yes, Tamala Park accepts asbestos for free every Sunday, however, certain conditions apply. Householders should contact Mindarie Regional Council to learn more about preparing asbestos before arrival.

How do you dispose of asbestos in Bury Council?

Asbestos must be double-wrapped and sealed in heavy-duty plastic wrapping or household rubble sacks, then disposed of at a licensed asbestos removal company or recycling centre. Please get in touch with Bury Council for the nearest location.

How do you dispose of asbestos in Swan Shire?

To dispose of asbestos in Swan Shire, wrap it securely in heavy-duty plastic and label it ‘CAUTION ASBESTOS’, then take it to the Red Hill Waste Management Facility for proper disposal. Tip passes cannot be used for this.

Does Nottingham County Council take asbestos waste at their landfill site?

No, Nottingham County Council does not take asbestos waste at their landfill site. Asbestos must be disposed of safely and is not accepted at any of the recycling centres.

What are the health risks associated with asbestos exposure?

Asbestos exposure can cause serious health issues such as mesothelioma, lung cancer and other lung-related diseases. It can also remain lodged in tissue, leading to further complications.

Tommy Clappers

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

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