Broken asbestos cement sheets are a serious health hazard and must be handled, packaged, and disposed of correctly under NZ law. While some limited DIY handling is permitted for homeowners in certain situations, the rules are strict — and getting it wrong can put you, your family, and your neighbours at risk. Here's what you need to know before you touch anything.
Why Broken Asbestos Cement Is Especially Dangerous
Asbestos cement (sometimes called fibrous cement or by the trade name Fibrolite) was widely used in NZ homes built before the mid-1980s for roofing, cladding, eaves, and soffits. When intact, the risk is relatively low. However, broken or damaged sheets release fine asbestos fibres into the air, which — when inhaled — can cause serious diseases including mesothelioma and asbestosis, often decades later. WorkSafe NZ sets out the legal duties for managing asbestos exposure in New Zealand.
Is This DIY Work or Restricted Work?
Under the Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016, asbestos removal is divided into two classes:
- Class A removal — friable (crumbly) asbestos or asbestos-contaminated dust. This must be carried out by a licensed asbestos removalist.
- Class B removal — non-friable asbestos cement in good condition, in areas of 10 m² or less. Homeowners working on their own home may do this themselves, but must follow strict safety requirements.
Broken sheets complicate this. Once asbestos cement is broken, it becomes partially friable and may release fibres more readily, potentially pushing the work into Class A territory. If you are unsure whether your material is friable, stop work and consult a licensed asbestos assessor or removalist before proceeding. You can find qualified local specialists on tradedirectory.co.nz.
Step-by-Step: Safe Handling for Homeowners (Small Quantities Only)
If you have confirmed the work falls within the Class B DIY threshold and the sheets are only lightly broken (not crumbling to dust), follow these steps carefully:
1. Get the Right PPE
At minimum you need:
- A P2-rated disposable respirator (not a standard dust mask)
- Disposable coveralls (Tyvek-style)
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
Never use a vacuum cleaner — it spreads fibres. Never dry-sweep.
2. Wet the Material Down
Before handling, gently dampen broken sheets with a garden sprayer or hose. Keeping the material wet suppresses airborne fibres. Do not use high pressure, as this can spread contaminated water and break the material further.
3. Handle Carefully — Minimise Breakage
Carry sheets flat and supported. Do not drop, snap, or drag them. Work on a calm, still day to reduce fibre dispersal. Keep bystanders, children, and pets well away from the work area.
4. Double-Bag or Wrap Securely
Place broken sheets into heavy-duty polythene bags (at least 0.2 mm thick) or wrap tightly in two layers of polythene sheeting, sealing all edges with tape. Each package should be clearly labelled:
| Label requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Warning text | "CAUTION — ASBESTOS" |
| Do not crush or compact | Printed or handwritten clearly |
| Weight limit per bag | Check with your local council/disposal site |
5. Decontaminate Yourself and the Area
Once finished, carefully remove and bag your disposable coveralls and gloves — turn them inside out as you remove them. Wipe down your respirator exterior with a damp cloth before removing it. Shower and change clothes before entering your home.
Disposing of Asbestos Waste in NZ
Asbestos waste cannot go in your kerbside rubbish bin, skip bin, or general landfill. It must go to a council-approved or licensed asbestos disposal facility. Requirements vary by region, so contact your local council before transporting any material. Most councils require:
- Pre-notification or a booking
- Properly sealed and labelled packaging
- A small disposal fee (costs vary — check with your council directly)
Some regional councils publish specific guidance on their websites. MBIE Building Performance and WorkSafe NZ also provide national guidance on asbestos management.
Do You Need a Building Consent?
Removing asbestos cement cladding or roofing may or may not require a building consent depending on the scope of work. Some repairs fall under Schedule 1 exemptions of the Building Act 2004, but this is not guaranteed — always check with your local council before starting. MBIE Building Performance has useful guidance on consent exemptions.
Protecting Your Health Long-Term
Asbestos-related diseases have a long latency period — symptoms may not appear for 20–40 years. This is why even small exposures matter. BRANZ has research and guidance on identifying and managing asbestos-containing materials in NZ homes, which is worth reading if your home was built before 1990.
When to Call a Professional
You should always engage a licensed asbestos removalist if:
- The sheets are crumbling, powdery, or heavily broken
- The area involved is larger than 10 m²
- The asbestos is in a confined space (ceiling, subfloor)
- You are unsure of the material type or condition
- You have any respiratory health conditions
A licensed professional will have the correct equipment, training, and legal authority to handle Class A removal safely. They can also arrange compliant disposal on your behalf. Find a qualified asbestos removal specialist near you on tradedirectory.co.nz.
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