Guidelines for Cutting, Handling and Disposal of Asbestos Pipes Released

The Water Directorate is very pleased to have developed the Cutting, Handling and Disposal of Asbestos Cement (AC) Pipe Guidelines on behalf of our member councils. A copy was posted to the General Manager of all member councils this week. 

These guidelines, originally published in 2003 and revised in 2008, aim to assist LWUs meet NSW legislative requirements and to minimise the risks associated with asbestos products, to councils’ employees, operators, contractors and communities.

The guidelines have recently been reviewed to ensure they are consistent with the new Work, Health and Safety Act (WHS Act) 2011. The consultant responsible for undertaking this review was Daryl McGregor of Daryl McGregor Pty Ltd, Consulting Engineers. The Water Directorate also appreciates the assistance of Amy Lovesey, Project Manager - Asbestos Policy, Local Government NSW in the review of these guidelines.

The Water Directorate strongly urges our members to implement standard operating protocols for the safe handling and disposal of AC pipes and to develop Safe Work Method Statements to identify and address the associated hazards and risks.

For all enquiries regarding our publications please contact info@waterdirectorate.org.au. Additional copies can be purchased from our online bookshop or downloaded from the members' area.