Hazardous Materials Survey

The primary hazard in pre-1990 buildings. Asbestos may be present in more than 3,000 documented product types including fibro sheeting, vinyl floor tiles, pipe lagging, fire-rated partitions, gaskets, and textured coatings. Bulk sampling with PLM analysis by a NATA-accredited laboratory confirms presence and fibre type (chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite).

Pre-1970 buildings commonly have multiple layers of lead-based paint on internal and external surfaces. XRF analysis provides non-destructive in-situ measurement of lead concentration in paint films. Paint chip sampling with laboratory acid digestion and ICP analysis confirms lead content where XRF access is limited.

Glasswool and rockwool insulation in ceiling spaces, wall cavities, HVAC ductwork, and acoustic panels generate respirable fibres when disturbed. While less hazardous than asbestos, SMF causes skin, eye, and upper respiratory tract irritation. Identification in the hazardous materials survey ensures appropriate controls during demolition.

Polychlorinated biphenyls were used in transformer oils, capacitors, and fluorescent light ballasts manufactured before 1987. PCBs are persistent organic pollutants with strict disposal requirements under the National Environment Protection (Assessment of Site Contamination) Measure. Identification during pre-demolition survey prevents uncontrolled release during demolition.

Refrigeration systems, air conditioning units, and halon fire suppression systems in pre-2000 buildings may contain chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), or halon. The Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Act requires controlled recovery before decommissioning.

Typical Worker Groups

Common similar exposure groups (SEGs) assessed for this sub-category.

Regulatory Context

AS 2601 (The Demolition of Structures) requires identification and documentation of all hazardous materials before demolition commences. The WHS Regulation requires an asbestos survey before any demolition work. The Protection of the Environment Operations Act regulates disposal of hazardous waste including asbestos, lead paint debris, and PCB-containing materials. The Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Act requires recovery of ODS before equipment decommissioning. Local council demolition approvals typically require a hazardous materials survey report as a condition of consent.