Asbestos may sound like a relic of the past, but for many older homes, it remains a present-day concern. Used extensively in the construction industry before being banned across Australia, asbestos can still be found in various parts of homes built before the turn of the century—including switchboards. At Detector Inspector, we come across this issue regularly, and it’s one that needs immediate and professional attention.
What is asbestos and why is it dangerous?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once widely used for its durability and resistance to heat. It was used in everything from insulation materials to ceiling tiles and, yes, even in electrical switchboards. However, when disturbed or damaged, asbestos releases tiny fibres into the air. If these fibres are inhaled, they can cause serious health issues, including lung disease, asbestosis, and mesothelioma.
Unfortunately, asbestos is a hidden danger and not easy to spot. It can look like regular household dust, and once airborne, its fibres are virtually undetectable without proper equipment. That’s why professional handling is not just recommended—it’s essential.
Asbestos in switchboards: What you need to know
Asbestos was commonly used in electrical switchboards in homes built before 1990, but some materials containing asbestos were still imported into Australia as late as 2004. Without proper training, asbestos in these switchboards is nearly impossible to identify. For this reason, it’s critical that only licensed specialists test and remove asbestos-containing materials.
Switchboard with an asbestos ridden-backing.
Our process: Safety first
At Detector Inspector, safety is our top priority. When asbestos is found in a switchboard, we follow a stringent process to ensure its safe removal and the safety of everyone on the property, including tenants.
Here’s how it works:
- Area Secured: We establish a safety perimeter around the work zone to prevent access.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): All personnel wear disposable coveralls, boot covers, gloves, and masks to ensure full protection.
- Controlled Removal: Our electricans de-energise, disconnect and remove the switchboard, before handing over to the asbestos removal specialist to safely remove all asbestos-containing materials and capture all leftover asbestos dust.
- Thorough Clean-Up: After removal, the work area and all tools are thoroughly cleaned, and all disposable materials are placed into hazardous waste bags labelled as asbestos.
- Installation of New Switchboard: Once the asbestos is safely handled, our team proceeds with the installation of a new, compliant switchboard.
Every electrician involved in asbestos-related switchboard upgrades at Detector Inspector is fully trained and accredited to handle the isolation and disconnection of asbestos-affected switchboards.
Detector Inspector electrican and licensed asbestos removalist working on removing an asbestos switchboard.
Landlords responsibilities and compliance
Landlords must ensure that residential properties are safe—not just for tenants but for anyone carrying out work on the property. When it comes to asbestos, failing to comply with Occupational Health and Safety legislation can lead to severe penalties. Even more concerning, landlords may be held liable for any harm caused by asbestos exposure.
Ensuring the safe removal of asbestos is not just a legal requirement—it’s about protecting lives. The health risks are significant, and ignoring the presence of asbestos can lead to tragic outcomes.
