The obligation
PCBUs must not use, or direct or allow a worker to use, high pressure water spray or compressed air on asbestos or asbestos-containing materials (WHS Regulation clause 446).
Asbestos can release airborne fibres whenever it is disturbed, and inhaling these fibres is a significant health risk. Asbestos has been used in products including certain textured coatings and paints, roofing materials, vinyl or thermoplastic floor tiles, imitation brick cladding and plaster patching compounds.
- What
- PCBUs must not use, or direct or allow a worker to use, high pressure water spray or compressed air on asbestos or asbestos-containing materials (WHS Regulation clause 446).
- Source
- safework.nsw.gov.au
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Frequently asked questions
Which WHS law does this come from?
Ban on blasting asbestos materials is a WHS requirement set out in Abrasive blasting (NSW). It is made under Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (NSW). The relevant provision is Abrasive blasting > Asbestos.
What does this WHS obligation require?
Ban on blasting asbestos materials is a WHS obligation under Abrasive blasting (NSW). In short, PCBUs must not use, or direct or allow a worker to use, high pressure water spray or compressed air on asbestos or asbestos-containing materials (WHS Regulation clause 446).
What changed recently?
Ban on blasting asbestos materials was last updated on 11 October 2026.
