Asbestos Banned in All Australian Workplaces

    Jan. 8, 2004
    An Australia-wide ban on all new uses of asbestos and materials containing asbestos has gone into effect.

    As of Dec. 31, 2003, it is illegal under the laws of each state and territory to use, re-use or sell any products containing asbestos, including automotive brake pads and gaskets. A customs regulation bans imports and exports of asbestos-containing materials.

    The ban will not apply to asbestos products and materials that are already in place. But when they are replaced, non-asbestos alternatives must be used.

    Under the new regulations, any stockpiles of asbestos-containing products must be safely disposed of under the applicable state and territory regulations.

    About the Author

    Sandy Smith

    Sandy Smith is the former content director of EHS Today, and is currently the EHSQ content & community lead at Intelex Technologies Inc. She has written about occupational safety and health and environmental issues since 1990.

    Continue Reading

    Sponsored Recommendations

    June 16, 2025
    This free guide will define complacency, explain individual and organizational complacency, provide insights into the contributing factors and give a high-level overview of what...
    May 22, 2025
    Heat stress is a serious challenge that poses immediate and long-term health effects for workers in high-temperature environments. To combat heat stress, it's critical to educate...
    May 15, 2025
    Foot safety is a serious concern. At your next safety meeting, give your crew eye-opening facts about feet and how proper footwear matters more than they may know. Show your team...
    May 15, 2025
    If reimbursing employees for safety footwear is how its always been done, maybe its time to learn about the advantages a managed footwear program can offer instead. See a ...

    Voice your opinion!

    To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!