AS 2601-2001 — The Demolition of Structures
The Australian Standard for safe demolition planning and execution — including hazardous-material identification before works begin.
AS 2601-2001 is the Australian Standard for the demolition of structures. It sets out planning, sequencing, control, and safety requirements for demolition contractors and the principals who engage them.
Critically for asbestos compliance, AS 2601 requires hazardous materials — including asbestos — to be identified before demolition begins, and removed by an appropriately licensed contractor before structural demolition proceeds. This is the technical anchor for pre-demolition asbestos surveys.
It also covers structural assessment, exclusion zones, public safety controls, dust suppression, and waste handling. Contractors are expected to demonstrate compliance through documented plans, risk assessments, and competent supervision.
What this means for you: if you're planning demolition or major strip-out, AS 2601 is the reason a pre-demolition asbestos survey isn't optional. AX4's pre-demolition reports are structured to satisfy both AS 2601 and Chapter 8 of the WHS Regulations.
Disclaimer: this is a plain-English summary, not legal advice. Always refer to the current published Standard.
Disclaimer: this is a plain-English summary, not legal advice. Always refer to the official source and consult a qualified adviser for your specific situation.
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