Managing Australia’s legacy asbestos in water mains

Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency Peter Tighe said: “Around one quarter of Australia’s water main pipes as well as 5000 kilometres of sewer mains contain deteriorating asbestos.”

“While there is no evidence that asbestos in cement pipes is a danger to drinking water, planning for the long-term management of asbestos is important for community safety.

Mr Tighe said the cost of rehabilitation of asbestos water pipes is about $400 million nationally.

“This cost is expected to rise significantly as the infrastructure ages, and this has implications for water consumers.” Currently there are no nationally consistent regulations around asbestos pipeline programs.

“Water authorities and governments around the country are encouraged to follow the findings of this report to ensure that planning is in place, and that best practice in removal of legacy asbestos from water mains is followed,” Mr Tighe said.

The agency recommends governments, water authorities and the industry all work toward the development of a clear set of nationally consistent regulations around practices to remove asbestos from water mains.