Asbestos and Hazmat Services │ The Safety Lab NZ

Accurate Surveys, Sampling, and Compliance Solutions for New Zealand Businesses

Managing asbestos and hazardous materials is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of employees, contractors, and the public. At The Safety Lab NZ, we offer comprehensive asbestos and hazardous materials sampling, assessment and survey and project and remediation management services to help businesses meet compliance standards and mitigate risks effectively.

Some of the world's biggest household names have utilised our expertise to ensure their workplace remains safe and compliant and their occupational health and hygiene risks are well controlled. Our technical experience bridges the void between health and safety consultancies and asbestos specialists, allowing us to bring both of these specialist areas into a single strategic workstream that delivers for our customers.

Why Managing Asbestos and Hazardous Materials Matters

Asbestos, lead paint, ozone-depleting substances (ODS), Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs), and Synthetic Mineral Fibres (SMFs) are hazardous materials that were commonly used in residential and commercial buildings and industrial plant.
These materials were valued for their durability, fire resistance, and insulating properties but are now recognised as significant health and environmental risks. Therefore, identifying and managing asbestos in the workplace is not only a legal obligation but also a critical step in protecting the well-being of everyone involved.

Asbestos

A naturally occurring mineral known as the wonder product, was widely used in residential and commercial buildings and industrial plant for insulation, roofing, fireproofing, acoustic products, and various construction materials such as cement products, adhesives and flooring. Asbestos is composed of microscopic fibres that, when disturbed and inhaled, can cause severe respiratory diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. In New Zealand, the use of asbestos was phased out by the late 1980s, but commercial buildings and plants constructed before the 1990s, particularly those built between 1940 and 1980, are likely to contain asbestos. However, just because the use of asbestos stopped does not mean the problem went away. This is because asbestos was used in construction for many years until 2000. Therefore, any building built or renovated before 2000 could contain asbestos.

Lead Paint

Commonly applied in commercial buildings and industrial plants due to its durability, moisture resistance, and ability to prevent rust on metal structures. However, lead is a toxic metal that can cause a range of health problems, particularly in children and pregnant women, including developmental delays, learning difficulties, and behavioural issues. The use of lead-based paint was phased out in New Zealand by the late 1970s, but commercial and industrial buildings constructed before this time, especially those built before 1950, are at a higher risk of containing lead-based paint.

Ozone-depleting substances (ODS)

ODS's, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons, were widely used in refrigeration, air conditioning systems, and foam-blowing agents in commercial buildings and industrial plant, solvent and aerosol propellants. These substances contribute to the depletion of the ozone layer, which protects the Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation. The use of most ODS was phased out in New Zealand by the early 1990s, but older buildings and equipment from before this period may still contain these substances.

Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)

Primarily in electrical equipment such as (florescent lighting) capacitors, transformers, and other industrial machinery due to their excellent insulating properties and chemical stability. PCBs are toxic and can cause a variety of adverse health effects, including cancer and immune system suppression. The use of PCBs in new equipment was banned in New Zealand in the late 1980s. However, older commercial and industrial buildings, particularly those constructed before 1980, may still contain equipment with PCBs.

Synthetic Mineral Fibres (SMFs)

Fiberglass and mineral wool were extensively used for insulation, fireproofing, and soundproofing in commercial buildings and industrial plant. While not as hazardous as asbestos, inhaling SMFs can still cause respiratory irritation and other health issues. The use of these materials has been regulated since the 1990s. However, they are still present in many older buildings and facilities.

Comprehensive Asbestos and Hazmat Services

At The Safety Lab NZ, we specialise in providing a range of services to identify and manage asbestos and other hazardous materials. Our services include:

Asbestos Surveys

Our qualified professionals conduct thorough management surveys, refurbishment surveys and demolition surveys to support your property risk profile through its whole lifecycle, identifying the presence, likely presence and location of asbestos.

Hazardous Material Surveys

Our qualified professionals conduct thorough surveys to identify the presence and location of hazardous materials. This includes detailed inspections of buildings and sites to ensure all potential hazards are accounted for.

Sampling and Analysis

We collect samples of suspected asbestos-containing materials and other hazardous substances using IANZ-accredited laboratories for precise analysis. This ensures accurate identification and assessment of any material that may pose a risk.

Asbestos Registers and Risk Assessments

We compile comprehensive asbestos registers that document the location and condition of asbestos materials. Alongside this, we perform materials and priority risk assessments to determine the level of risk posed and recommend appropriate control measures.

Asbestos Management Plans

Based on our findings, we develop tailored asbestos management plans that outline strategies for managing identified asbestos materials. These plans are essential for maintaining legal compliance and ensuring the ongoing safe management of these risks.

Clearance Inspections and Air Monitoring

After any asbestos removal work, we conduct clearance inspections to ensure the area is safe for reoccupation. Additionally, our air monitoring services check for airborne asbestos fibres, providing peace of mind that the environment is safe.

Benefits of Partnering with The Safety Lab NZ

Our Licenced Asbestos Assessors are accredited by WorkSafe, ensuring you receive professional and reliable services. Our team's extensive experience in asbestos and hazardous materials management guarantees the highest safety and compliance standards.

We will help you navigate the complex landscape of asbestos and hazardous materials regulations, ensuring your business meets all legal requirements. This reduces the risk of non-compliance penalties and enhances your reputation as a responsible employer.

By identifying and managing these risks early, you can avoid costly incidents and potential legal liabilities. Effective asbestos and hazardous materials management can also lower related health risks associated with long-term workplace exposure.

Our Process

Initial Consultation

We begin with a detailed consultation to understand your specific needs and concerns. This allows us to tailor our services to your unique requirements.

Survey and Sampling

Our team conducts comprehensive surveys and collects samples from suspected areas. These samples are then analysed in accredited laboratories to confirm the presence of asbestos or other hazardous materials.

Risk Assessment and Reporting

Based on the survey and sampling results, we perform risk assessments to evaluate the potential hazards. We provide you with detailed reports outlining our findings and recommendations for managing the risks.

Management Plan Development

We develop customised asbestos management plans that include practical steps for managing and mitigating identified risks. These plans are designed to ensure ongoing compliance and safety.

Implementation and Monitoring

We assist in implementing management plans and offer ongoing monitoring services to ensure the continued safety of your workplace. Our team is available for regular reviews and updates to the management plans as needed.

Asbestos and Hazmat Services You Can Rely On