What protective equipment for handling asbestos?

Question

Hi all,

I need to remove one eave sheet but it is asbestos. It has snapped from water damage (dry now). It looks like it may snap more when I remove it. I am going to wear pull protective gear, but wanted to know the best mask from Bunnings to buy.

Josh7 · Answer

Thanks @EricL and @MitchellMc. Very helpful advice. I will enlist a professional.

MitchellMc · Answer

Hi @Josh7,

I just wanted to highlight that asbestos removal is a much bigger issue than simply choosing the right mask.

While a P3-rated respirator (like the one mentioned) is part of the required PPE, asbestos handling is not just about personal protective gear. The real risk is preventing fibres from becoming airborne and contaminating the surrounding area, including your roof cavity, insulation, garden, clothing, and even inside your home.

When asbestos sheeting has already snapped due to water damage, it is very likely to fracture further during removal, significantly increasing the chance of fibre release. Once fibres are airborne, they can remain suspended for long periods and spread beyond the immediate work area.

Proper asbestos removal involves:

* Isolating and containing the work area
* Using controlled wet methods to minimise dust
* Avoiding power tools and breakage
* Careful wrapping and sealing of waste in approved materials
* Lawful transport and disposal at licensed facilities
* Full personal decontamination procedures (including controlled removal of PPE and preventing secondary contamination)

There is also a real risk of contaminating yourself, your clothing, your vehicle, and other parts of your property if strict decontamination procedures are not followed.

Because of these factors, this is not something that should be treated lightly, even for a single sheet. In many cases, particularly if the material is friable or likely to break apart, it is safest and often required to engage a licensed asbestos removal professional.

For authoritative guidance, I strongly recommend reviewing:

* Safe Work Australia – Model Code of Practice: How to Safely Remove Asbestos
* WorkSafe Queensland (or your relevant state WorkSafe authority) – state-specific legal requirements
* NSW Environment Protection Authority – asbestos transport and disposal requirements

These sites outline legal obligations, licensing thresholds, and the strict procedures required for safe removal and disposal.

Given the condition of the sheet and the risk of further breakage, my strong recommendation would be to enlist the services of a licensed asbestos removalist. The cost is small compared to the health risk and potential contamination issues. Having an area decontaminated is a huge expense.

Asbestos exposure is not something worth taking chances with.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell