Queensland authorities are spotlighting the risks of high-pressure water cleaning on asbestos surfaces. 

The illegal practice can release hazardous fibers into the air, endangering health and leading to substantial fines under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011.

“Asbestos, commonly used in buildings from the 1940s to late 1980s, poses no threat if undisturbed and in good condition. Improper cleaning, handling, or disposal releases dangerous fibers, posing serious health risks,” says Donna Heelan, Deputy Director General of Queensland’s Office of Industrial Relations.

Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) recently audited 182 businesses in buildings likely to contain asbestos. 

From August to October 2024, 23 non-compliance issues were fixed onsite, and 151 improvement notices were issued. 

This follows ten prosecutions in the past year for asbestos-related breaches, many involving improper high-pressure water cleaning of asbestos roofs.

The state’s awareness campaign includes resources such as Losing Breath – The Adam Sager Story, a film detailing a young man’s mesothelioma death after childhood asbestos exposure. 

Guidance materials for homeowners, workers, and businesses are also being offered.

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