Customs officials are investigating building materials imported by Chinese company Yuanda for possible asbestos contamination, amid growing concerns over the use of illegal products.

Australia imposed a ban on the import, manufacture and use of asbestos in 2003, but critics say enforcement is lax in light of evidence that illegal materials are still in use.

The new Perth Children’s Hospital is the latest building embroiled in the scare, after it emerged roof panels supplied by Yuanda contain the toxic material.

“It is the responsibility of importers to ensure their goods do not contain asbestos,” the Australian Border Force (ABF) says.

“[Yuanda] has… been notified that all goods imported by the company and its affiliates will be held at the border until it is confirmed the goods have been tested… and no asbestos contamination is present.

“As part of this activity, ABF investigators seized digital and physical evidence.”

The WA Government is conducting an independent investigation into the use of Yuanda’s building materials, with the Perth hospital a starting point.

“While no specific time limit can be set, the audit of the Perth Children’s Hospital is being carried out as a matter of extreme priority,” WA Building Commissioner Peter Gow told insuranceNEWS.com.au. “Builders are responsible for sourcing and supplying products that meet the specifications and the applicable building standards, but rely on labelling and information from suppliers.

“Unfortunately, in this instance, a product containing asbestos has been able to enter the country and be installed in a building. The Building Commission and relevant regulators are working to identify how this was able to happen.”

Yuanda’s Sydney office did not return calls from insuranceNEWS.com.au.

The Building Products Innovation Council recently called for tougher regulations to stop the use of illegal construction materials.