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How to avoid asbestos when renovating
Many homes undergoing refurbishment in Victoria will require asbestos removal. Asbesos was widely used on building materials from 1940 to as recently as the early 1980s. It comes in two forms:- Firmly bound material, such as cement sheeting, roof shingles, and imitation cladding
- Loosely bound material used in older types of insulation for hot water pipes, domestic heaters and stoves, and ceiling insulation
Asbestos is only a health risk when broken, cracked or disturbed in activities, such as renovating, that produce dust or fibres. However, when it is inhaled it can potentially cause fatal lung diseases.
The importing of asbestor and asbestos containing materials is now banned in Australia.
The following tips will allow you to take precautions to reduce asbestos exposure:The importing of asbestor and asbestos containing materials is now banned in Australia.
- If your home is built between 1940 to 1980 and you intend to renovate, check to see if you have asbestoc before commencing renovating.
- Know that asbestos in your home is not necessarily a health risk. It is only hazardous when broken, cracked or disturbed in activities, such as sawing or drilling that produces dust or fibres.
- Be assured that asbesos-cement products in homes can be maintained, removed and disposed of safely and legally.
- It is recommended that a licensed asbestos removalist remove loosely bound asbestos.
- Even for firmly bound asbestos, it may be difficult to follow the prescribed safety precautions yourself, so use an expert.
- Have a Registered Building Practitioner oversee the work who will always work in accordance with asbestos safety practices or will have a licensed asbestos removalist do the work, when required.
- If you suspect that you have asbestos or require information, contact your Environmental Health Officer at your local council.
- To obtain a copy of the brochure 'Asbestos in the Home' phone the Department of Human Services on: 9637 4156.
- Information on waste disposal sites that accept asbestos is also available at the Environmental Protection Autjority of Victoria, phone: 9695 2722.
- To find a licensed asbestos removalist, visit www.workcover.vic.gov.au
For more information, visit
www.buildingcommission.com.au
Reviewed: 10 August 2009
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