Demolishing Old Fibro Cement Sheds: Safety Tips and Best Practices

Fibro cement sheds, popular in Australia during the mid-20th century, often contain asbestos – a once-ubiquitous building material prized for its durability and heat resistance. However, asbestos is now known to be a significant health hazard if its fibres become airborne and are inhaled. If you’re considering demolishing an old fibro cement shed, it’s essential to understand the risks and take the necessary precautions. This guide will walk you through the basics of safe demolition practices, as well as legal requirements in Australia.

Understanding the Risks of Fibro Cement

Fibro cement, particularly older sheets, often contain asbestos, which poses health risks if disturbed. Asbestos exposure can lead to severe respiratory issues and diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Safe demolition isn’t just a matter of protecting yourself and others; it’s also a legal requirement.

Step-by-Step Guide to Safe Demolition

1. Assess the Structure for Asbestos
• Before beginning demolition, confirm if your shed’s fibro sheets contain asbestos. You can engage a licensed asbestos assessor who can test samples and determine the risk level. Given the serious health concerns associated with asbestos, hiring an expert is highly recommended if there’s any uncertainty about the shed’s materials.
2. Check Your State’s Regulations
• Australian states have strict regulations regarding asbestos removal and disposal. For instance, SafeWork NSW provides guidelines on handling and disposing of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) safely. Most states also require a licensed contractor to perform the work if more than a certain quantity of asbestos needs removal, such as 10 square meters.
3. Prepare the Worksite
• Seal off the area to prevent asbestos fibres from contaminating nearby spaces. Use barriers and warning signs to ensure no one accidentally enters the area. This setup is particularly crucial in residential settings to protect neighbors and pets from exposure.
4. Use the Right Safety Gear
• All workers involved in the demolition should wear protective gear, including:
• P2 or P3 respirators to filter asbestos fibres
• Disposable coveralls and gloves
• Goggles to protect eyes from dust
• Avoid using power tools, which can break up fibro sheets and release fibres. Instead, use manual tools that reduce breakage and disturbance of the material.
5. Wet Down Fibro Sheets
• Lightly misting the fibro sheets with water can help contain dust and fibres. Avoid soaking, as excessive moisture can make sheets heavier and more challenging to handle. Wetting the material limits the release of fibres and makes removal safer.
6. Carefully Remove and Dispose of Materials
• Remove the sheets as whole as possible to avoid breaking or crushing. Double-wrap removed sheets in plastic sheeting, sealing all edges with tape, as mandated by many state guidelines. Label the wrapped asbestos waste according to your local disposal regulations, and transport it to a licensed asbestos disposal facility.
7. Thoroughly Clean the Site
• After removing asbestos materials, wet-wipe or use an approved HEPA vacuum to clean the area. Avoid sweeping or using regular vacuums, as these can spread fibres into the air. Also, carefully dispose of all protective gear used during the demolition to prevent any risk of residual contamination.

Why Professional Help May Be Necessary

While it’s technically legal for homeowners to handle small amounts of asbestos, the risks associated with asbestos exposure often outweigh the cost savings. Hiring a licensed contractor ensures the job is done safely and in compliance with state regulations, minimizing health risks to yourself and others. Professional demolition companies also handle waste disposal, ensuring that all asbestos material is managed correctly.

Final Thoughts

Demolishing an old fibro cement shed is not a simple DIY job. By following strict safety protocols and adhering to state regulations, you can protect your health and that of others around you. If in doubt, consult a licensed asbestos removalist to ensure the safe and compliant disposal of hazardous materials.

References:

Asbestos – A guide for minor renovation – Queensland, Australia
Fibro and Asbestos: Your questions answered
Garage & Shed Demolition
How to deal with asbestos ‘fibro’ in soil at home – SafeWork NSW Government
How To Remove Fibre Cement Sheets