Published on Monday, 24 November 2014 at 12:00:00 AM
This week is Asbestos Awareness Week, a timely reminder to understand the areas within your home where you may find asbestos products and to learn how to safely manage them.
Asbestos is a naturally-occurring fibrous silicate mineral. It was considered a versatile product, because it is able to withstand heat, erosion and decay and has fire and water resistant properties. It becomes a health risk when asbestos fibres are released into the air and breathed in.
Asbestos fibres were used widely in building materials before the mid-1980s. If your house was built or renovated before the mid-1980s, it is likely to contain asbestos cement building materials.
You may be surprised at the various types of products that were made from bonded asbestos cement included fibro sheeting (flat and corrugated), water drainage and flue pipes, roofing shingles and guttering – even the backing of vinyl sheet floor coverings.
Renovating an existing home has become a popular trend and unfortunately this means a potential risk of exposure to asbestos fibres. If you are planning a renovation, or even home maintenance, make sure you become Asbestos Aware and keep yourself and your family safe.
More information about Asbestos Awareness and Lung Health can be found on the following websites;
Asbestos Awareness
Lung Foundation Australia
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