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Australian homeowners, renovators, tradies and handymen are being reminded that asbestos could be lurking in any home built or renovated before 1987.
Before this time Australia was among the largest consumers of asbestos-containing materials in the world.
The hazardous material was most often used in the manufacture of a broad range of building and decorator products that can still be found in brick, weatherboard, fibro or clad homes.
Today, asbestos-containing materials remain in one in every three Australian homes, meaning it is vital that anyone looking to work in an environment where asbestos may be present do their homework.
Asbestos is a particularity dangerous hazard because it could be found just about anywhere.
This includes:
- Under floor coverings including carpets, linoleum and vinyl tiles
- Behind wall and floor tiles
- In cement floors
- Internal and external walls
- Ceilings and ceiling space (insulation)
- Eaves
- Garages
- Roofs
- Around hot water pipes
- Fences
- Extensions to homes
- Garages
- Outdoor toilets
- Backyard and farm structures
- Chook sheds
- Dog kennels
If asbestos-containing materials are disturbed during renovations or maintenance and fibres are released that can be inhaled they can cause asbestos-related diseases including malignant mesothelioma.
There is no cure for mesothelioma, a cancer that can develop between 20-50 years after inhaling asbestos fibres - the average survival time is just 10-12 months following diagnosis.
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Inhaling asbestos fibres can also cause lung cancer, asbestosis and benign pleural disease.
Because there is no known safe level of exposure to asbestos fibres, it’s extremely important for all Australians to safely manage asbestos-containing materials that might be found in and around their homes.
As so many Australian homes feature asbestos, it’s vital to have your property checked by a licensed asbestos assessor or removalist before commencing any DIY work.
If homeowners find a small amount of asbestos in their home, some may be tempted to remove and dispose of it themselves.
Although it does cost to have a licensed professional assess your home and remove any asbestos, the alternative is even more costly.
Pay a visit to asbestosawareness.com.au to learn where these types of asbestos-containing materials might be found and how to manage and dispose of asbestos safely.
The website provides easy to follow information, an online product database to help identify the types of asbestos-containing products to look for and possible locations, and information on how to manage and dispose of asbestos safely.
To protect themselves and families from exposure to dangerous asbestos fibres, people can download the Asbestos Awareness Healthy House Checklist.