FAQ

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in Australian homes and buildings before 1990 for insulation, roofing, wall sheeting, and flooring. When disturbed, asbestos releases microscopic fibres that can cause serious health issues, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Safe removal by licensed professionals is essential to prevent airborne exposure.

Yes. Around one in three homes built in Australia before 1990 are likely to contain asbestos materials. It can be found in bathrooms, kitchens, eaves, roofing, and behind tiles or wall linings. Even newer properties may contain asbestos if renovations reused older materials.

The only reliable way to confirm asbestos is through professional sampling and laboratory analysis. Total Services Group provides asbestos inspection and testing services using NATA-accredited laboratories, ensuring accurate results and safety compliance.

Yes. Under the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2012 (SA), only licensed asbestos removalists can remove asbestos safely. Class A licences allow removal of friable and non-friable asbestos, while Class B licences allow removal of non-friable asbestos only. Total Services Group holds appropriate licences for both classes and complies fully with the SafeWork SA Code of Practice – How to Safely Remove Asbestos.

Friable asbestos can be crumbled by hand when dry, releasing dangerous fibres (e.g., pipe lagging, sprayed insulation). Non-friable asbestos is bonded within materials like cement sheeting or vinyl tiles and poses less risk when undisturbed. Both types must be managed with care and removed under strict control measures.

Our team will conduct a risk assessment and prepare an Asbestos Removal Control Plan (ARCP), establish containment zones and use negative air pressure systems, safely remove materials using wet methods to minimise dust, and conduct air monitoring and clearance inspections before reoccupation. All works are performed in accordance with ISO 45001 (Safety), ISO 9001 (Quality), and ISO 14001 (Environmental) standards within our Integrated Management System.

Asbestos waste is sealed, labelled, and transported in accordance with EPA SA and SafeWork SA requirements. Total Services Group ensures waste is tracked and disposed of at licensed EPA-approved facilities, maintaining environmental compliance under ISO 14001.

Yes — depending on the size and location of the work area. For residential jobs, homeowners are usually required to vacate the premises until air clearance testing confirms the area is safe to reoccupy. Commercial sites are managed through staged work and zoning to reduce disruption.

In addition to asbestos, older buildings may contain other hazardous materials such as lead-based paints, synthetic mineral fibres (SMF), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and contaminated soils and residues. Total Services Group offers comprehensive hazardous materials surveys and remediation services to ensure a safe environment for occupants and workers.

Compliance begins with proper identification, risk assessment, and recordkeeping. Total Services Group helps clients maintain Asbestos Registers, Management Plans, and training programs aligned with ISO 45001 and SafeWork SA standards — ensuring your site remains compliant, auditable, and safe.

Licensed and accredited asbestos and hazardous materials removal specialists. Fully certified Integrated Management System (ISO 45001 / 9001 / 14001). NATA-accredited testing partnerships. Safety-first culture and environmental accountability. Servicing residential, commercial, and industrial clients across South Australia.

You can request a free initial consultation via our website or by calling [your phone number]. Our licensed assessors will review your property or project, explain the process clearly, and provide a no-obligation quote that includes all safety, environmental, and disposal requirements.