Asbestos continues to be one of the most serious hazards in the construction and demolition industries. Its presence in coatings such as primers and paints can remain hidden until redevelopment projects uncover it. In Darwin’s CBD, a major property redevelopment revealed a dangerous layer of friable asbestos primer beneath the building’s façade coating.
This case study shows how Perfect Contracting, supported by RapidBlast™ dustless blasting technology, removed 6,500 m² of asbestos-contaminated primer safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with stringent safety and environmental standards.
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The Challenge: Friable Asbestos in a High-Risk Urban Environment
The project required the removal of asbestos primer across extensive concrete block walls before demolition could begin.
Key Challenges:
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Urban location: Darwin’s CBD, with constant pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
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High health risk: Airborne asbestos fibres demanded advanced dust control.
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Tight timeframe: A seven-month deadline to prepare the building for safe demolition.
Conventional dry blasting or manual removal methods were unsuitable, as they carried significant risks of fibre release and delays. A proven, engineered approach was critical.
The Solution: RapidBlast™ Dustless Blasting Equipment
Perfect Contracting deployed the RapidBlast™ SD Series, manufactured by Quantum Blast Technologies. This Australian-made dustless blaster combines water, air, and abrasive media in a controlled slurry, ensuring safe and efficient coating removal.
Advantages Delivered by RapidBlast™:
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Superior dust suppression – virtually eliminated airborne fibres.
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Precise removal – maintained the integrity of the blockwork.
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High production rates – enabled the project to stay on schedule.
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Environmental compliance – controlled slurry collection reduced water waste and emissions.
The method aligns with validation from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, who recommend wet abrasive blasting for hazardous coating removal due to its effectiveness in minimising dust.
Safety and Hazard Control Measures
Beyond the equipment itself, strict safety protocols were applied on-site to protect workers and the public:
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Airborne fibre control: Negative pressure containment and constant air monitoring.
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Worker welfare: Hydration stations, air-conditioned rest breaks, and safe work cycles to combat Darwin’s heat and humidity.
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Slip and fall prevention: Non-slip platforms and scaffold inspections.
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Cross-contamination prevention: Three-stage decontamination units and strict PPE protocols.
This combination of technology and safety culture created a controlled environment where asbestos could be removed without risk.
The Outcome: Clearance & Zero Safety Incidents
After seven months, all 6,500 m² of asbestos primer were safely removed. Independent hygienists certified the site asbestos-free, allowing demolition to proceed without delay.
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Zero safety incidents recorded.
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On-time delivery, ensuring project continuity.
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Sustainable approach with reduced energy and water use compared to traditional blasting.
Mateusz Jedruszek, Managing Director of Perfect Contracting, summed up the outcome:
“RapidBlast gave us the confidence to complete asbestos primer removal in a high-risk urban site without compromising safety or schedule. It is now our go-to solution for hazardous coating removal.”
Lessons Learned for the Industry
This project reinforced important lessons for demolition and hazardous material contractors:
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Hazards are not always visible—primers, paints, and adhesives can conceal asbestos.
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Containment must be engineered, not improvised, especially in sensitive environments.
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Specialist technology and expertise are critical in high-risk, urban sites.
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Worker welfare must remain the top priority—safety and efficiency go hand in hand.
Read the complete details here: Asbestos Coating Removal Case Study (PDF).
Final Thoughts
The Darwin CBD asbestos removal project highlights how modern equipment like the RapidBlast™ Australian-made dustless blaster is transforming hazardous coating removal. By combining wet abrasive blasting with rigorous safety protocols, contractors can deliver safe, compliant, and sustainable outcomes.
RapidBlast™ isn’t just a blasting system—it’s a proven solution for handling complex demolition challenges where safety and efficiency are paramount.