Difference Between Class A and Class B Asbestos Removalists

When asbestos is identified during a renovation, demolition, or maintenance project, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right licensed asbestos removalist. Asbestos removal work is generally divided into Class A and Class B licensed removal work, with the appropriate licence depending on the type and condition of the asbestos involved.

Understanding the difference between Class A and Class B asbestos removalists can help homeowners, builders, property managers, and businesses choose an appropriately licensed contractor and plan their project correctly. It is important to note that the classification depends on the asbestos removal work being performed and not simply whether a property contains asbestos.

What Is a Class A Asbestos Removalist

A Class A asbestos removal licence allows a licensed contractor to remove both friable and non-friable asbestos. Friable asbestos is asbestos-containing material that can be crumbled, pulverised, or reduced to powder by hand when dry. Because friable asbestos can release fibres more readily, its removal requires stricter controls and procedures.

Examples may include:

• Friable asbestos insulation
• Loose asbestos-containing materials
• Certain deteriorated asbestos materials
• Asbestos-contaminated dust or debris
• Some insulation and lagging materials

Class A removal work requires appropriate controls to minimise the potential release and spread of asbestos fibres.

What Is a Class B Asbestos Removalist

A Class B asbestos removal licence allows a licensed contractor to remove non-friable asbestos, but not friable asbestos. Non-friable asbestos is generally bonded within a material, such as asbestos cement sheeting. When the material is intact and handled correctly, the asbestos fibres are more tightly bound within the product.

Common examples include:

• Asbestos cement wall sheeting
• Asbestos cement roofing
• Asbestos eaves
• Asbestos fencing
• Asbestos cement panels

However, the condition and circumstances of the material still matter. Damaged or deteriorated asbestos can present increased risks and may require additional controls.

Class A vs Class B: What’s the Difference

The main difference is the type of asbestos removal work the licence permits.

In simple terms, Class A covers both friable and non-friable asbestos, while Class B is limited to non-friable asbestos removal.

Which Licence Is Required for Common Brisbane Jobs

The appropriate licence depends on the material and the specific work being undertaken. For example, removal of intact asbestos cement roofing, wall sheeting, or fencing may generally fall within non-friable asbestos removal work and can be undertaken by an appropriately licensed Class B removalist. However, work involving friable asbestos requires a Class A licence. If there is uncertainty about the material or its condition, professional assessment should be obtained before removal work begins.

Why Choosing the Correct Removalist Matters

Asbestos removal is highly regulated because improper handling can release asbestos fibres and expose workers, occupants, and others nearby. Using an appropriately licensed contractor helps ensure that the work is planned and performed using suitable procedures.

A professional removalist can also assist with:

• Assessing the asbestos material
• Planning the removal
• Establishing appropriate controls
• Safely removing the material
• Packaging asbestos waste
• Arranging compliant transport
• Disposing of asbestos at an approved facility

The requirements can vary depending on the nature and scale of the work, so it is important to confirm the contractor’s licence and scope before engaging them.

What About Damaged Non-Friable Asbestos

A common misconception is that all asbestos cement is automatically low risk because it is classified as non-friable. The condition of the material is important. Asbestos cement that has been damaged, broken, cut, drilled, or otherwise disturbed can release fibres. Activities such as demolition, renovation, grinding, drilling, or cutting can create additional risks. Before work begins, the material should be assessed and the appropriate removal and control measures determined.

Don’t Choose a Removalist Based on Price Alone

When dealing with asbestos, the cheapest quote is not necessarily the best option.

Before engaging an asbestos removalist, consider:

• Appropriate licence
• Experience with similar asbestos materials
• Safe work procedures
• Waste packaging and disposal arrangements
• Appropriate insurance
• Clear quotation and scope of work
• Compliance with applicable requirements

For larger commercial or industrial projects, it may also be important to coordinate asbestos removal with the wider construction or demolition program.

What Happens After Asbestos Removal

Removing asbestos is only part of the process. The waste must also be handled and transported correctly. Asbestos waste should be appropriately packaged, labelled, transported, and disposed of at a facility authorised to accept asbestos waste. Keeping documentation relating to the removal and disposal can also be useful for property owners and businesses, particularly where the property may be sold, renovated, or redeveloped in the future.

Final Thoughts

The key difference between Class A and Class B asbestos removalists is the type of asbestos they are licensed to remove. Class A removalists can undertake work involving both friable and non-friable asbestos, while Class B removalists are licensed for non-friable asbestos removal. Before any asbestos is disturbed, it is important to identify the material, assess its condition, and determine what type of licensed removal work is required. Choosing an appropriately licensed asbestos removalist helps protect workers and occupants while ensuring the project is managed in accordance with the requirements.

Our team helps property owners, builders, businesses, and contractors coordinate asbestos testing, assessment, licensed asbestos removal, transport, and compliant disposal. Whether you have asbestos roofing, eaves, fencing, wall sheeting, or other suspected asbestos materials, we can help determine the appropriate next step and connect you with suitable licensed professionals. Contact us today for professional asbestos removal advice and a competitive quote in Brisbane.