The dumb act has not only put people's health at risk, but it has also cost Scamander Waste Transfer workers a week's work while the site is closed for decontamination until Wednesday.

Not to mention the inconvenience over the Easter long weekend and hefty cost to ratepayers.

Break O'Day mayor Mick Tucker summed up the situation aptly.

"The financial cost worn by the community because of this very irresponsible behaviour is going to be gobsmacking," he said.

"It's illegal and totally irresponsible. It's absolutely disgusting to think someone would be okay with putting lives at risk."

It is hard to believe that the culprit didn't know what they were doing when chucking the dangerous material into the Ansons Bay bulk general waste bin.

The effects of inhaling fibres of asbestos have been well publicised for years and the stupidity of those disposing it in a wrongful way is rightfully frowned upon.

While the levels of dangers vary depending on the amount of exposure, the Cancer Council of Australia says:

"Asbestos is extremely fibrous and the tiny fibres are easily breathed in where they can become trapped in the lungs. Being exposed to asbestos increases the risk of developing cancers of the lung, ovary and larynx as well as mesothelioma (cancer of the lining of the lung). These cancers often develop decades after exposure to asbestos".

Let's hope the offender is caught, and as Cr Tucker said, they are held accountable.

Whether that be by the judicial system or being made to pay decontamination costs back to Break O'day ratepayers.

There are no excuses in the 21st century for not following correct removal procedures.

Call a licensed removalist, even if it costs more money.

It's best to be safe, than sorry.

To find out, visit worksafe.tas.gov.au.