Asbestos is still present in many Australian buildings constructed before 1990: in eaves, wall sheeting, vinyl floor tiles, switchboards, roofing and pipe lagging. It's usually safe when left undisturbed, but becomes dangerous when it's drilled, cut or broken. Clear asbestos signage helps make sure nobody disturbs it by accident, and warns workers and the public when removal work is under way.
This article is general information. Asbestos rules are set by work health and safety laws in each state and territory. Check with your state WHS regulator or a licensed asbestos assessor for your exact obligations.
When asbestos signs are used
1. Labelling known asbestos in a building
Under work health and safety laws, workplaces with asbestos generally need to identify it, record it in an asbestos register, and label its location where it's reasonably practicable to do so. Labels on switchboards, riser cupboards and wall panels stop tradespeople drilling into a hazard they didn't know was there. Our Asbestos Area Sign and the VIC Asbestos Direct Label are designed for this.
2. Showing where the register is kept
Workers and contractors need to know where to find the asbestos register before they start work. An Asbestos Register Located At sign with your custom location (for example "Site office" or "Building manager's office") makes this easy.
3. Marking removal work areas
During removal, signs and barricades are used to mark the work area and keep unauthorised people out. Common signs include Danger – Asbestos Removal in Progress and Danger – Asbestos: Protective Equipment Must Be Worn. Your licensed removalist will advise on the signs and barriers needed for the job.
4. General warnings
For areas where fibres could be present, a Warning – Asbestos Fibres sign reminds people to stay out or wear the right protective equipment.
More asbestos, silica and dust signs
Asbestos: Danger, asbestos · Danger, asbestos, do not enter · Asbestos waste label (bags, containers and PPE) · VIC building entrance sign · VIC asbestos roofing label · VIC ceiling space access sign
Silica and dust: Danger, silica dust, respiratory protection required · Warning, respirable crystalline silica dust hazard · QLD silica dust exclusion zone · QLD abrasive blasting exclusion zone · Lead paint removal in progress, keep out
Choosing the right material
- Labels on equipment and panels: small vinyl stickers or aluminium labels fixed directly to the asbestos-containing material's location (without drilling into it).
- Temporary removal sites: corflute with eyelets, cable-tied to fencing and barricades.
- Long-term warnings outdoors: aluminium or ACP.
Who buys asbestos signs?
Our asbestos signs are popular with building and facility managers, strata committees, schools, councils, licensed removalists, demolition contractors and builders working on renovations. See our ranges of signs for builders and signs for property and facilities managers.
Frequently asked questions
Can I put an asbestos sign on my home?
Yes. Many homeowners label known asbestos in sheds, eaves or switchboards so future tradespeople are warned. It's a simple step that could protect someone years from now.
Do you make custom asbestos signs?
Yes. Use our custom danger signs to add your own wording, site name or contact details.
How quickly can I get them?
Every sign is made to order and dispatched in 2–3 business days, with flat $20 shipping Australia-wide and free shipping over $500.
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