If you have less than 10 square metres of non-friable asbestos that you want to remove yourself, you will need the right gear to ensure you and your family are safe during the removal process. Here is a list of the main things you will need to get your hands on, all of which should be available at your local hardware store:
- breathable, disposable coveralls
- P2 mask with respirator (P2 refers to the Australian standard and is required as a minimum for asbestos removal)
- disposable boot covers
- black plastic, at least 2mm thick (enough plastic to wrap up the quantity of asbestos removed)
- disposable safety gloves
- dust-wipe rags
- 1L water spray bottle with trigger
- asbestos warning sticker – to stick on the asbestos pile once it’s all wrapped up
- fibre-bonding or dust-binding solutions, or similar sealant – 500ml, and spray bottle to put it in.
For more information about the protective gear you must wear to safely conduct the removal of small amounts of asbestos in your home, visit the Australian Government’s Department of Health website, or have a look at Workcover NSW’s ‘Working with Asbestos Guide’.