Investigations

Contamination Investigations for Asbestos and Asbestos Containing Materials

West Soil & Water assists Western Australian businesses, developers and property owners in identifying asbestos contamination before it becomes and safety and compliance issue.

We combine desktop research, field inspections and laboratory analysis to determine the presence, concentration and impact of asbestos containing materials (ACMs), providing all findings in an easily digested report. That data can then inform appropriate remediation strategies.

For more information about our services and how they can minimise disruption and ensure compliance on site, get in touch.

Our Asbestos Investigation Process

We recognise that no project is the same and our investigations are designed to adapt to a site’s history, proposed use and environmental context. Typically, they will include:

1. Desktop Review and Site History

We begin by studying all available documentation to identify whether, in the past, asbestos was likely used or disposed of on the land. Our team look at land titles, aerial imagery, government records and DWER databases to reach a conclusion.

2. Site Inspection and Field Assessment

WSW consultants complete an onsite inspection to verify the findings of the desktop study, looking for visible signs of ACMs like cement sheeting or insulation. To prevent fibre disturbance and protect your compliance, these inspections are conducted in line with strict safety protocols.

3. Sampling and Testing

Soil, dust and potential ACM samples are collected and taken for analysis at NATA accredited laboratories. All testing follows AS 5370:2024, providing you with accurate and respected results.

4. Risk Assessment and Reporting

WSW will collate all findings into a report that is clear and understandable for you and meticulous and comprehensive for regulators. Our reports will detail:

The type, extent and location of contamination
Assessment of potential exposure pathways (such soil disturbance or airborne fibres)
Recommendations for safe and effective management or remediation

This last point is an important one to our team. A well conducted investigation should not just detect asbestos, but also assess whether it poses an environmental or human health hazard and develop an appropriate remediation plan. Planning for management actions from the start is the surest way to avoid costly delays and maintain compliance in the future.

5. Liaison with Regulators

Should contamination exceed reporting thresholds, our team will provide ongoing assistance in submitting compliance notifications to DWER.

When Do You Need an Asbestos Investigation?

An investigation will be necessary where:

You are redeveloping or purchasing land previously used for industrial or construction purposes
Asbestos containing materials are suspected or visible on site
There is a history of demolition, waste disposal or fill material
You need to confirm the site’s suitability for future use

If you can identify asbestos contamination early, you avoid potential delays securing commercial abatement services and regulatory approvals. That allows redevelopment to proceed safely and compliantly.

How Investigations Inform Asbestos Management

Investigations are the foundation of any effective remediation strategy. They provide the objective data that guides the nature and extent of your efforts.

At WSW, we use that data to create a remediation approach tailored to each individual site. For example:

Where contamination is confined to smaller areas, we may undertake targeted removal or excavation
Where contamination is widespread or embedded in material, we may advised a staged strategy to minimise disturbance and cost. This may include contracting of one of our Licenced Asbestos Removal contractors

We also target potential exposure pathways, addressing the risks posed by dust generation or fibre migration. By combining hard data with a strong understanding of regulatory expectations, WSW provides a seamless transition from investigation to remediation, reducing delays and ensuring compliance.

Why WA Businesses Choose WSW

Our consultants have over 15 years of experience conducting asbestos investigations, abatement and removal for commercial and industrial clients. They pride themselves on their:

Comprehensive Approach: Practical solutions that address regulatory concerns
Local Knowledge: Over a decade of experience working with in WA’s environmental and regulatory landscape
Accredited Testing: Sampling and analysis conducted at NATA accredited facilities
Transparent Advice: All advice is evidence based and communicated clearly and honestly

Additionally, our asbestos assessments can form part of a wider Preliminary Site Investigation (PSI) or Detailed Site Investigation (DSI), meaning your site will be assessed for other contaminants under the NEPM.

WSW will provide clear answers, thorough reporting and genuine confidence that asbestos risks on your site are properly understood and managed.

Get in Touch and Work With Perth's Leading Asbestos Remediation Company

If you suspect asbestos contamination on your site or would like confirmation prior to development or purchase, the West Soil & Water team is ready and willing to help. We will identify asbestos risks early and suggest appropriate remediation risks, protecting compliance and project timelines.

For more information about our investigations or to arrange a site specific quote, contact our asbestos abatement and removal team.