Imported Building Products Alert

The following information has been provided by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection  (DIBP) and is forwarded for your attention.

“To ensure the ongoing safety of Australian consumers and industry members, the Department of Immigration and Border Protection is actively targeting imported building products at high risk of containing asbestos. The Department urges industry members to ensure they are aware of the import restrictions and border requirements for products that may contain asbestos.

“Department of Immigration and Border Protection Notice 2015/38 has been issued to provide information on the risk of goods containing asbestos and compliance activities underway to ensure that Australia’s zero tolerance of asbestos is adhered to. The Department of Immigration and Border Protection website also contains further information regarding asbestos.”

The Notice referred to above says, in part, “Local standards in some countries may even classify goods as ‘asbestos-free’ where they meet a certain low level of asbestos content. In Australia, a product found with any level of asbestos is prohibited for import or use. Importers should be aware of the varying definitions and standards applied in the country of origin and/or supply. Many products containing asbestos can be freely ordered on the internet and will often claim to be asbestos-free. As a consequence, asbestos can be unintentionally and unknowingly imported into Australia.”