With renovation season kicking off, tradies are being warned to be wary of the dangers of ageing and deteriorating asbestos.
Despite a complete asbestos ban more than 20 years ago, an estimated one in three homes across Australia still contain asbestos. Around 4,000 Australians die each year from asbestos-related diseases.
The Asbestos and Silica Safety and Eradication Agency (ASSEA) is urging people to be aware of the dangers of asbestos.
The National Asbestos Awareness Week will be held from the 25 November to the 1 December 2024
“If your home was built before 1990, there’s a high likelihood it contains asbestos,” ASSEA Chief Executive Officer Jodie Deakes said.
“Asbestos was used in over 3,000 building products, and it can show up inside and outside, in floors, walls, ceilings, eaves, pipes and roofs.”
These asbestos-containing materials are now between 30 to 100 years old and are deteriorating, including the matrix to which the asbestos was bonded. The older they become, the more likely they are to release harmful asbestos fibres.
“Asbestos cement roofs are particularly concerning, as they are in the poorest condition, having been directly exposed to years of sun, wind, rain and hail. Heavy rains can wash fibres into guttering, contaminating surrounding areas,” Deakes said.
“In contrast, asbestos eaves may be in better condition as they’re more protected, but they are not risk-free, especially when damaged or disturbed.”
Remain cautious when renovating
With the rise in renovations, and simple additions like home security installations, homeowners could unwittingly put themselves at risk by drilling into asbestos eaves to install security cameras, CCTV systems, and sensor lights. These actions can release asbestos fibres which, when inhaled, can lead to serious health issues, including mesothelioma and lung cancer.
“If you are thinking about doing any home renovations, before you start any work ensure that you get professionals in. There isn’t a hole big enough in Australia to bury all of the asbestos in it,” Asbestos Diseases Foundation of Australia Inc, Barry Robson said.
“Our message this National Asbestos Awareness Week is for homeowners to engage asbestos professionals to test for asbestos before starting any renovation or DIY project. By knowing where asbestos is in your home, you will be able to take the right steps to protect yourself and your family from exposure and plan to safely remove it,” ASSEA said.
This National Asbestos Awareness Week, ASSEA urges all Australians to respect the risks, know the facts and seek expert guidance before tackling a project in a home that may contain asbestos.
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