If you’re hiring someone to remove asbestos in New Zealand, you might hear terms like “Class A” or “Class B” certification. But what do these actually mean? And why should you care?
This guide breaks down what Asbestos Class A Certification is, when it’s required, and why it’s important to use licensed professionals when dealing with this hazardous material.
What is Asbestos Class A Certification?
Class A Certification is the highest level of asbestos removal licensing in New Zealand. It allows certified professionals to safely remove all types of asbestos, including friable asbestos, which poses the greatest health risk.
Issued by WorkSafe NZ, this certification means a company or individual has undergone specialist training, passed competency assessments, and follows strict health and safety standards.
What is Friable Asbestos?
Friable asbestos is any asbestos-containing material that can be crumbled, pulverised, or reduced to powder by hand pressure when dry. It’s highly dangerous, as it releases fibres easily into the air when disturbed.
Common examples include:
- Pipe lagging
- Sprayed-on insulation
- Ceiling insulation or dust
- Loose-fill asbestos
Only Class A certified removalists can legally remove friable asbestos in New Zealand.
What Can a Class A License Holder Do?
A Class A license holder can:
- Remove friable asbestos
- Remove non-friable (bonded) asbestos
- Handle asbestos-contaminated dust and debris (ACD)
- Conduct complex, high-risk removal projects
They must also:
- Use specialised equipment (e.g. negative pressure units, HEPA filters)
- Follow strict containment, PPE, and decontamination procedures
- Provide notification to WorkSafe NZ before certain jobs
- Issue clearance documentation after safe removal
What About Class B Certification?
Class B Certification only allows for the removal of non-friable asbestos — such as:
- Asbestos cement sheeting (e.g. cladding, eaves, soffits)
- Vinyl flooring
- Bitumen-based adhesives
- Class B holders cannot remove friable asbestos or ACD.
Why It Matters to Homeowners and Businesses
Hiring a Class A certified removalist means:
- You’re getting trained professionals who understand the risks
- The job will follow WorkSafe-compliant safety protocols
- You’ll receive a clearance certificate for peace of mind
- You protect yourself legally — and protect others from exposure
In most cases, if your property has friable asbestos or contamination, using a Class A removalist isn’t just recommended — it’s the law.
How Do You Know if a Company is Certified?
You can ask for:
- Their WorkSafe license number
- Proof of Class A certification
- References or reviews from previous asbestos work
- A clear explanation of their removal process and safety protocols
Or, check with WorkSafe NZ’s register of licensed asbestos removalists.
Trust the Experts
- Don’t disturb suspicious materials in older homes
- Get professional asbestos sampling or a survey before renovations
- Never sand, cut, or drill asbestos-containing products
- Always use WorkSafe NZ licensed professionals for removal www.asbestosservices.co.nz
- Wear PPE and follow safety procedures if you’re in a high-risk job