ENSURING YOUR IMPORTS DO NOT CONTAIN ASBESTOS
The hazards of asbestos are now well documented, as it has been banned for over two decades. Asbestos is dangerous when it is disturbed, becomes airborne, and its fibres are inhaled. It can be life-threatening
Due to ongoing threats of this insidious material, the ABF has found it necessary to release Australian Customs Notice No. 2024/32: “Assurances that imported goods do not contain asbestos.”
This is to remind you, the importer, it is your responsibility to take appropriate action to ensure you do not import goods that contain asbestos into Australia.
When making an import declaration, importers are required to declare if goods contain, or may contain, asbestos.
Importers declaring “no” to asbestos content in their goods must only do so if they are certain that their goods do not contain asbestos by design, or by the use of naturally contaminated ingredients during manufacture.
All licensed customs brokers, including us here at Colless Young, have an obligation to declare accurate information to the ABF. This includes seeking information from you, prior to making your import declaration, to be assured that goods do not contain asbestos.
What steps can you take?
Ask for clear assurances from your supplier. You need to have sufficient knowledge of your imported product, going right back to the point of manufacture.
You need to obtain sufficient information, prior to shipment, when unsure of any asbestos content, parts or components accompanying the primary item of import that are a risk (such as gaskets), or whether asbestos was present at any point in the supply chain process.
Certain approved testing certificates and laboratory reports, in conjunction with supply chain documentation, can provide assurance that asbestos is not present in imported goods.
Importers can import samples into Australia (with prior Ministerial permission) for testing, or undertake testing overseas.
For testing in Australia, the ABF will only accept certification from a laboratory that is accredited by the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) to undertake asbestos testing that confirms asbestos was not detected.
Some common places asbestos is still found:
Automotive Materials – Clutch and brake linings
Building Products – Tiny homes, Portable buildings, Cement sheets, Electrical components
Fireproofing & Insulation – Heat-resistant gloves, Insulation products, Asbestos blankets
Home Appliances – Clothes dryers, Microwaves, Crockpots
Consumer Goods – Ironing board covers, Hairdryers, Oven Mitts, Talcum powder
The right time to think about this issue is when you place your order. Don’t be afraid to quiz your overseas supplier, and check with us if you have any doubts.
For information about all your imports, including correct Customs procedures, contact Andrew at Colless Young, email enq@collessyoung.com.au Tel: +61 7 3890 0800.
As licensed Customs Brokers and International Freight Forwarders, Colless Young handles your cargo economically and professionally. Based in Brisbane, we provide a complete range of logistics services, including exports, both by sea and airfreight, at all major Australian ports and airports.
