
Key takeaways
- Asbestos is a hazardous material found in many older construction materials.
- Asbestos exposure can cause serious health issues, including lung cancer and mesothelioma.
- It is crucial to identify and safely remove Asbestos-containing materials.
- Licensed Asbestos removalists are trained to handle Asbestos safely.
- Personal protective equipment is essential when dealing with Asbestos.
- Always consult professionals for Asbestos removal to avoid health risks.
How to remove Asbestos
Finding Asbestos-containing materials in your home can be a frightening experience.
Asbestos, a hazardous material once used in over 3,000 building products, was banned in Australia in December 2003 due to its severe health risks.
Exposure to it can lead to Asbestos-related diseases such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other Asbestos-related diseases.
If you suspect Asbestos in your home, understanding the proper removal procedures is essential for ensuring your family’s safety. Let’s dive into the comprehensive steps and precautions to safely handle and remove Asbestos, protecting your loved ones and community from its dangers and ensuring a healthy living environment.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral widely used in construction due to its excellent fire resistance and insulating properties.
Types of Asbestos
There are six types of Asbestos:
- Chrysotile Asbestos (white Asbestos)
- Amosite Asbestos (brown Asbestos)
- Crocidolite Asbestos (blue Asbestos)
- Tremolite Asbestos
- Anthophyllite Asbestos
- Actinolite Asbestos
Uses in construction
These Asbestos fibres were mixed into various construction materials such as:
- Cement sheeting used for walls and ceilings
- Insulation materials
- Roofing sheets and shingles
- Vinyl floor tiles
- Vinyl floor sheeting
Asbestos related disease
Inhalation dangers
Asbestos exposure is a serious concern due to the severe health risks associated with inhaling Asbestos fibres. Tiny Asbestos fibres are released into the air when Asbestos-containing materials are disturbed.
These Asbestos fibres can be inhaled and lodged in the lungs, leading to serious health problems.
Carcinogenic risks
There are many carcinogenic risks associated with Asbestos. Lung cancer, mesothelioma (a rare cancer of the lining of the lungs or abdomen), and asbestosis (a chronic lung disease) are the primary diseases caused by Asbestos exposure.
High-risk groups
Workers in construction, demolition, and Asbestos removal are particularly at risk. Even brief exposure can lead to long-term health issues, making it vital to handle Asbestos containing materials with extreme caution.
Identifying Asbestos in your home
Identifying asbestos materials in your home can be challenging as asbestos is used in many construction materials.
Common locations
Asbestos is often found in older homes built before the 1980s in:
- Wall and ceiling sheeting
- Insulation materials
- Roofing sheets and shingles
- Floor coverings
Professional inspection
You can’t always tell just by looking if a material contains Asbestos fibres, so it’s best to have a professional asbestos inspection.
Safety first
If you suspect Asbestos, don’t touch it. It’s crucial to consult a professional.
All Australian states require a licenced specialist to remove Friable Asbestos and Non-Friable Asbestos in quantities greater than ten square meters.
Types of Asbestos removal
Friable Asbestos removal
Friable Asbestos removal involves Asbestos materials that can be easily crumbled to powder by hand when dry, posing a high air pollution risk. It includes items like:
- Low-density board linings (walls & ceilings)
- Vinyl floor sheeting
- Roof insulation
- Pipe lagging
The brittle nature of these materials means they can release Asbestos fibres into the air, making them highly dangerous if disturbed. This type of removal requires an A Class Asbestos removal licence and demands strict safety protocols and personal protective equipment to prevent Asbestos exposure and contamination.
Non-friable Asbestos removal
Non-friable Asbestos removal involves materials where Asbestos fibres are tightly bound. Although less risky than friable Asbestos, it still requires careful handling. Examples include:
- Fibre cement walls and ceilings
- Roof sheeting
- Fencing
- Vinyl floor tiles
Even though the fibres are more securely held, improper handling can still release harmful fibres. Non-friable Asbestos may be found in older construction materials, and its removal also requires professional expertise to ensure safety and compliance with Asbestos regulations.
Importance of professional assessment
Regardless of the type, it’s essential to have your property assessed by a licensed professional. Once you receive the test results, it is recommended to book a professional Asbestos removal service to avoid further health risks.
Proper disposal and compliance
Proper disposal of Asbestos materials is also a critical part of the process, and is best handled by experts to prevent environmental contamination. Asbestos removal protects your health and ensures your home complies with current safety standards.
Health consequences
Ignoring the presence of Asbestos or attempting to remove it without proper knowledge can lead to serious health consequences. Always rely on experienced professionals to handle Asbestos safely and effectively. Following the correct procedures ensures that Asbestos-containing materials are appropriately managed, safeguarding your home, community and family from the dangers of Asbestos exposure and asbestos related disease.
FAQs
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral used in construction for its fire-resistant properties. Asbestos was widely used in insulation, cement, and other materials until its dangers were recognised.
How can I identify Asbestos-containing materials?
Asbestos can be found in Cement sheeting used for walls and ceilings, Insulation materials, Roofing sheets and shingles, Vinyl floor tiles, and Vinyl floor sheeting. It’s best to have a professional assessment to identify it.
What are the health risks of Asbestos exposure?
Asbestos exposure can lead to serious health issues such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Even brief exposure can pose risks, so handling Asbestos with care is essential.
These diseases develop over time, often many years after exposure.
Can I remove Asbestos myself?
It’s not recommended.
Removing Asbestos requires special training and equipment to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
DIY removal can release dangerous Asbestos fibres into the air, increasing the risk of exposure.
Is Asbestos still used today?
While Asbestos is banned in many countries, including Australia, it can still be found in older buildings. Always check for Asbestos materials before renovating.
Some countries may still use Asbestos in certain products, but it’s heavily regulated. Checking local regulations and guidelines is crucial.
Quotes from GBAR staff
“We’ve seen firsthand the dangers of Asbestos exposure, and our mission is to make homes and workplaces safer for everyone. Our team is dedicated to providing safe, efficient and cost effective Asbestos removal services to ensure your peace of mind.”
Brad, QLD Operations Manager
“At The GBAR Group, we pride ourselves on our professional expertise and commitment to safety. We understand the serious risks associated with Asbestos and strive to deliver the highest standard of service in every job we undertake.”
Jason, National Manager
Benefits of professional Asbestos removal
Benefit | Description |
Health protection | Professionals ensure complete removal, reducing health risks from Asbestos exposure. |
Safety compliance | Licensed removalists comply with Asbestos regulations, ensuring your home, investment, or workplace meets safety standards. |
Expertise and equipment | Professionals have the necessary training and specialised equipment to handle Asbestos safely. |
Thoroughness | Ensures all Asbestos-containing materials are properly removed and disposed of, preventing future exposure. |
Keeping your family safe
Removing Asbestos from your home is more than just a task, it’s about ensuring the safety and health of your family.
Asbestos exposure can lead to severe health issues such as lung cancer and mesothelioma.
Always rely on licensed professionals to do the job right, providing peace of mind and a healthy living environment.
Your licensed Asbestos removal team
If you’re struggling with Asbestos in your home and need professional help, The GBAR Group is here for you. We’re a licensed hazardous materials remediation firm servicing New South Wales and Queensland.
Reach out to us
Our team of experts ensures that your Asbestos problem is managed professionally and in accordance with safety regulations during removal, handling, and disposal.
If you need Asbestos removed or need a consultation, contact us today. We’re ready to help and guide you through the Asbestos removal process, ensuring safety and peace of mind by removing asbestos risks the right way.