What is a Class B Asbestos Removal Licence?

A Class B Asbestos Removal Licence allows the licence holder to legally remove non-friable (bonded) asbestos in Australia, including asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) such as cement sheeting, roofing, vinyl tiles, and fencing.

Non-friable asbestos is bound in a solid matrix (like cement) and is less likely to release harmful fibres unless it is disturbed, damaged, or broken. While it's considered less dangerous than friable asbestos, it still poses serious health risks if mishandled.

In New South Wales (NSW), a Class B licence is issued by SafeWork NSW and allows businesses or individuals to remove:

• Non-friable (bonded) asbestos
• Asbestos-contaminated dust or debris (ACD) that is associated with non-friable materials

However, Class B licence holders cannot remove friable asbestos—that type of high-risk work is strictly reserved for Class A licence holders.

To obtain a Class B licence, applicants must:

• Complete an approved training course (CPCCDE3014 – Remove non-friable asbestos)
• Demonstrate the ability to safely plan and conduct asbestos removal
• Meet all workplace safety standards outlined by SafeWork NSW

A Class B licence is typically required for builders, tradies, and contractors working with older buildings where bonded asbestos products are present.

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