Background

Some battery-operated bee smokers have been imported from China by three separate beekeeping equipment retail businesses based in Queensland. Tests have confirmed asbestos was present in the insulating board between the battery compartment in the handle of the device and the metal smoker.

Workplace health and safety laws prohibit a range of activities including the importation, supply, sale and use of asbestos. They also set out duties to identify all asbestos present in a workplace.

SafeWork NSW are currently investigating whether battery-operated bee smokers have been imported into NSW.

Product description

The battery-operated bee smokers are designed to emit smoke used for beekeeping (apiculture). Two models with different coloured handles have been found to have asbestos in the insulating board.

Risk from using asbestos-contaminated bee smokers

These battery-operated bee smokers should not pose an immediate hazard or measurable health risk through normal use, as the asbestos is firmly bonded to the matrix of the insulating board. However, the insulating board could be damaged and release asbestos dust and debris.

Actions required

Stop using your battery-operated bee smokers and find out if they contain asbestos

Anyone with one of these bee smokers should immediately stop using it, wrap it in sturdy plastic or put it in a sturdy plastic bag, seal it with tape and store it away until you can confirm with your supplier that there is no asbestos-containing material in them (even though they may be labelled as 'asbestos-free').

If you can't confirm with your supplier whether the battery-operated bee smoker contains asbestos, you should have it tested at a NATA-accredited laboratory.

Dispose of battery operated bee smokers that contain asbestos

Battery operated bee smokers confirmed to contain asbestos must be disposed of as asbestos waste. If you are in any doubt about whether the bee smokers contain asbestos, dispose of them as if they do contain asbestos.  Your local council will be able to provide you with information on the location of hazardous waste facilities.

Check when you buy new battery-operated bee smokers

If you are buying or importing battery operated bee smokers, ask your supplier for documentation confirming there is no asbestos in the products (even though they may be labelled as 'asbestos-free').  Local standards in some supplier countries may classify goods ‘asbestos-free’ where they meet a certain low level of asbestos content. In Australia, a product found with any level of asbestos is prohibited for import or use.

Further information

To reduce the risk of importing or supplying products containing asbestos or for general asbestos information visit the Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency website, or contact SafeWork NSW on 13 10 50.