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Safety Checks and Solutions: A Homeowner's Guide to Asbestos

by Edwin Johnston

It's common knowledge now that asbestos is damaging to health.  However, it is not always clear what kind of damage asbestos can do, exactly how much of a risk factor it is, and how to determine whether asbestos is present in your home.  Especially if you're buying a new property and feel that asbestos may be a concern, it's vital to understand how to proceed with asbestos removal and its importance.

What are the risks?

Most notably, asbestos has been identified as a carcinogen and is commonly associated with lung cancer specifically.  This is due to the fact that asbestos can become airborne and may be inhaled by those living or working close to it.  However, according to the Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency, it has also been associated with pleural disease, asbestosis and mesothelioma.  These risks are the same for both friable and non-friable asbestos, and for white, brown/grey and blue asbestos.

Is it legal?

It is no longer legal to use or manufacture any materials containing asbestos in Australia.  However, asbestos is still found in approximately one third of homes across Australia, with homes built between 1980 and 1990 the most likely offenders.  This is due to the fact that asbestos used to be considered a very versatile and useful building material; its versatility and durability made it a popular choice.  Homes containing asbsestos are not condemned or illegal, but it is well worth having it removed by a professional company if you discover any in your home.

How do I know if my home contains asbestos?

The actual fibers of asbestos are miscroscopic, so it is impossible to detect it by sight.  If your home is one of those built between 1980 and 1990 and you suspect it may contain asbestos, you should have it checked by an expert.

What should I do if any is found?

In the short-term, do not touch the affected materials.  Wipe up dust with a damp cloth, and try to keep the home well ventilated to ensure it is not breathed in.  However, if it's not exposed, it is not necessarily an immediate danger to you or your family.  An expert will be able to advise you on this.  However, if the affected materials are damaged in any way, they may be releasing asbestos fibers into the air, and this is dangerous.  Have it removed and replaced by a certified company immediately.  Class I companies deal with TSI and surfacing forms of asbestos; class 2 companies may only deal with non-thermal or non-surfacing forms of asbestos.

If your home was built after 1990, chances are that you don't need to be concerned.  However, for your own peace of mind, it may well be worth contacting an expert if you even suspect there may be asbestos in your home.  They can tell you for certain either way.  Then you can either relax, or begin to formulate a plan to deal with the affected materials.  Either way, knowing is better than not knowing.

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