Cleaning up after floods and storms

Information for home renovators, businesses and volunteers who are involved with a clean up and recovery of buildings damaged by floods, storms and other natural disasters.

Employers and workers involved in the flood and storm recovery efforts must still remember their obligations under Queensland's health and safety laws.

These laws are in place to protect Queenslanders. By being vigilant and maintaining safety during this difficult time, you can help reduce the risk of death, injury and illness to yourself, your workers and others involved in the clean up and repair effort.

Further information

Safe work procedures explaining how to clean up storm - damaged asbestos containing materials from around the home.

Class exemption—notification of licensed asbestos removal work due to flooding or severe weather conditions

The regulator has granted a class exemption to remove the requirement for licensed asbestos removalists to notify the regulator before carrying out licensed asbestos removal work if the work is necessary due to flooding or severe weather conditions (section 466, WHS Regulation).

This class exemption took effect on 16 March 2023 and is in effect until 15 March 2028 unless amended or cancelled sooner.

Read more information on demolition and asbestos, including training, personal protective equipment, decontamination and disposal of asbestos waste.

View the film Asbestos - safe work procedure - storm and wind damage cleanup.