How to Safely Handle Asbestos Cement Sheets When Stacking for Removal

Asbestos cement (AC) sheets — found in millions of New Zealand homes built before the mid-1980s — can be handled by homeowners in very limited circumstances, but only with the right precautions and a clear understanding of the law. In most cases, the safest and legally soundest decision is to hire a licensed asbestos removal specialist. If you are in any doubt, stop work and seek professional advice before proceeding.

Understanding the Risks First

Asbestos cement sheets (sometimes called fibrolite or Super Six roofing) contain bonded asbestos fibres. When the sheets are intact and undisturbed, the risk is relatively low. However, any breaking, cutting, drilling, sanding, or rough handling can release fine asbestos fibres into the air. Inhaling these fibres can cause serious diseases — including mesothelioma and asbestosis — that may not appear for decades. WorkSafe NZ sets out the legal framework for managing asbestos in New Zealand under the Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016.

Know the Legal Limits for DIY Removal

Under NZ law, non-licensed (Class B) asbestos removal allows homeowners or general workers to remove non-friable (bonded) asbestos material up to a total area of 10 m² without a licensed removalist — provided the work is done safely and in accordance with the regulations. Any area greater than 10 m², or any work involving friable (crumbly, damaged) asbestos, must be carried out by a licensed Class A asbestos removalist. Always confirm your specific situation with WorkSafe NZ or a licensed professional before starting.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) You Must Wear

Before touching a single sheet, assemble the correct PPE:

• P2 or P3 disposable respirator (not a dust mask — it must be rated for asbestos fibres)
• Disposable coveralls (Tyvek-style, hooded, with elasticated wrists and ankles)
• Disposable gloves (nitrile or similar)
• Safety goggles (sealed, not open-vent)
• Disposable boot covers or dedicated work boots that stay on site

All disposable PPE must be treated as asbestos-contaminated waste and disposed of correctly — never taken home or washed.

Step-by-Step: Safe Stacking of Asbestos Cement Sheets

1. Wet the Sheets Before You Touch Them

Using a garden sprayer or hose, lightly dampen the surface of each sheet before handling. This suppresses any loose fibres. Do not soak them to the point of run-off, as contaminated water must also be managed carefully.

2. Handle Sheets Gently — Never Break or Drop Them

Carry sheets flat and horizontally, supported along their full length. Use two people for large sheets. Never slide sheets against each other, stand them on edge unsupported, or drop them — any impact risks cracking and fibre release.

3. Stack Flat on a Stable, Padded Surface

Lay sheets flat on a clean, stable surface — a pallet or timber bearers work well. Place a sheet of heavy-duty polythene underneath before stacking. Stack sheets at a manageable height to avoid instability and cracking under weight.

4. Wrap Each Layer or the Whole Stack

Once stacked, wrap the entire bundle tightly in two layers of heavy-duty polythene sheeting (minimum 200 micron). Seal all edges with duct tape or similar. Label the package clearly with an asbestos warning label — these are available from safety suppliers.

5. Keep the Work Area Contained

Work in a well-ventilated outdoor area where possible. Lay polythene sheeting on the ground beneath your work zone to catch any debris. Restrict access — keep children, pets, and bystanders well away.

6. Clean Up Correctly

Do not use a standard vacuum cleaner. Use wet rags or damp paper towels to wipe down the work area, then bag and seal all cleaning materials as asbestos waste. A H-class (HEPA) vacuum is appropriate if you have access to one.

Disposing of Asbestos Waste in New Zealand

Asbestos waste cannot go in your general rubbish or skip bin. You must:

1. Contact your local council to find an approved asbestos disposal facility in your region.
2. Transport the sealed, labelled bundles directly to that facility.
3. Keep a record of disposal — some councils require a waste transfer note.

Requirements vary by region, so always check with your council first.

When to Call a Professional

You should always engage a licensed asbestos removal specialist if:

• The total area of AC sheeting exceeds 10 m²
• The sheets are cracked, crumbling, weathered, or friable
• The sheets are in a confined space (ceiling, subfloor, wall cavity)
• You are unsure whether the material actually contains asbestos — arrange testing by an accredited laboratory first
• You are a landlord — seek professional advice on any obligations that may apply to your situation
• The removal requires a building consent — check with your local council, as some asbestos-related work may trigger consent requirements under the NZ Building Code

A licensed specialist will have the correct training, equipment, and insurance, and can provide a clearance certificate on completion. You can find qualified asbestos removal specialists in your area on tradedirectory.co.nz.

Sources & Further Reading

• WorkSafe NZ — Asbestos
• MBIE Building Performance — NZ Building Code
• BRANZ — Building Research
• Tenancy Services — Healthy Homes
• Standards NZ