Awareness of Asbestos Risks in Australia: What You Need to Know

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was widely used in Australia across industries, particularly in construction, until its health risks became well-known. The harmful effects of asbestos exposure, such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, make it essential to be aware of the potential risks when handling or encountering materials containing asbestos. If you live or work in Australia, understanding where asbestos may be present and how to safely manage it can protect your health and the health of others around you.

1. What is Asbestos?

Asbestos was commonly used in Australia from the 1940s until its ban in 2003 due to its strength, fire resistance, and insulation properties. Unfortunately, asbestos fibres, when disturbed, can become airborne and pose severe respiratory health risks. These microscopic fibres can be inhaled, becoming lodged in lung tissues and causing long-term health complications.

2. Where Asbestos Can Be Found

Many older buildings, homes, and commercial facilities built before the 1990s contain asbestos. Common places include:

• Roofing, walls, and insulation materials
• Vinyl floor tiles and adhesives
• Cement sheets in walls and ceilings
• Pipes and ducts for water, sewage, or air conditioning

It’s crucial to be cautious when renovating or demolishing older structures, as disturbing these materials can release asbestos fibres into the air.

3. Identifying Asbestos: When to Seek Professional Help

Because asbestos fibres are not visible to the naked eye, it is often impossible to identify asbestos by sight alone. If you suspect a material may contain asbestos, do not attempt to handle it yourself. Engaging a licensed asbestos professional is the best approach to safely identify and manage any potential asbestos-containing materials.

WorkSafe ACT and Safe Work Australia stress the importance of using qualified experts, as they have the training and equipment to detect and manage asbestos safely. DIY attempts at removal can put you and others at risk, even if safety equipment is used.

4. Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure

Exposure to asbestos fibres, even in small amounts, can lead to serious health issues. These include:

• Asbestosis: Scarring of lung tissue that impairs breathing
• Mesothelioma: A rare but aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs
• Lung Cancer: Prolonged asbestos exposure is a significant risk factor

The health impacts of asbestos exposure can take years, even decades, to appear, making early prevention and safe handling essential.

5. Asbestos Safety Precautions for Homeowners and Workers

Whether you’re a homeowner, renovator, or tradesperson, take these precautions seriously to avoid potential exposure:

• Assume asbestos is present in pre-1990 buildings: Unless proven otherwise, take precautionary measures in older structures.
• Avoid disturbing materials that may contain asbestos: Drilling, sanding, or cutting such materials can release fibres into the air.
• Wear appropriate protective gear: Only trained professionals should attempt asbestos handling, but if you must be near an area with possible asbestos, use personal protective equipment (PPE) as a minimum safety measure.
• Use professional asbestos removal services: In Australia, only licensed removalists can legally and safely handle asbestos, ensuring proper containment, removal, and disposal.

The EPA NSW emphasises that tradespeople and renovators are at particular risk due to their frequent interactions with materials that might contain asbestos. The EPA NSW’s fact sheet highlights protective steps that should be taken by anyone working on a site with potential asbestos exposure.

6. Legal Requirements and Safe Disposal

Australia’s strict regulations govern asbestos handling, removal, and disposal. Failing to comply with these can result in significant fines and health liabilities. Safe Work Queensland points out that asbestos must be carefully disposed of in designated waste facilities and must never be left as general rubbish.

7. Steps to Take if You Suspect Asbestos

• Contact a licensed asbestos professional for inspection.
• Limit access to the area until professionals assess and address the situation.
• Follow safe work practices if authorised professionals need to handle, remove, or repair asbestos-containing materials.

For detailed guidelines, Safe Work Australia provides a comprehensive guide on controlling asbestos hazards in buildings, outlining safe practices for identifying, managing, and removing asbestos.

Conclusion

Being informed about asbestos risks is essential for homeowners, tradespeople, and anyone involved in construction or renovation. Awareness and adherence to safety protocols protect against exposure to harmful fibres and ensure a safer environment for everyone. Always follow the regulatory guidance provided by WorkSafe ACT, Safe Work Australia, and the EPA to ensure that you’re not unknowingly endangering yourself or others when dealing with potential asbestos risks in Australian buildings.

References:

Asbestos
Guide to the Control of Asbestos Hazards in Buildings and Structures – Australian Government Publishing Service
Asbestos – WorkSafe Queensland Goverment