Workplace Health and Safety Queensland has contacted multiple businesses following the detection of asbestos-containing fire rated board in products imported from China and distributed through Queensland.

The contaminated fire rated board was imported into Australia from China by a Victorian company and subsequently sold to Queensland manufacturer Firemex Pty Ltd.

The detection followed information provided by Australian Border Force, prompting the regulator to trace the distribution network of the affected fire doors.

Firemex has been working collaboratively with WHSQ to provide information about the distribution of the affected fire doors, though there have been delays due to access restrictions while decontamination activities were completed at the manufacturer’s warehouse.

WHSQ has contacted affected businesses directly, providing advice about the nature of the risk, their legislative duties, and recommended actions to ensure worker and public safety.

According to the regulator, fire doors containing the asbestos fire rated board pose an extremely low risk if they remain in good condition and are left undisturbed, as the asbestos material is encapsulated within steel and wood framing.

The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of monitoring imported building materials and the importance of supply chain oversight for products containing potentially hazardous materials.

Businesses concerned about whether they may have purchased affected fire doors have been advised to contact WHSQ directly for guidance on identification and appropriate management procedures.

The regulator continues to work with Firemex and other stakeholders to ensure all affected products are properly identified and managed according to established asbestos safety protocols.