Each week 13 Australians die of asbestos-related diseases, 12 from malignant mesothelioma. Another 13 are diagnosed with this hideous disease. Tragically, this number is predicted to rise in coming years due to homeowners, renovators and tradies disturbing asbestos and releasing fibres that can be inhaled by adults and kids during home renovations.
Although there’s no known safe level of exposure to asbestos fibres, what we do know is that the greater the exposure, the greater the risk of developing asbestos-related diseases. Understanding the dangers of asbestos and knowing how to manage it safely can help save lives.
- Every home built or renovated before 1987, most likely contains asbestos.
- 1 in 3 homes in Australia contain asbestos including brick, weatherboard, fibro and clad homes.
- If asbestos is undisturbed, sealed and well maintained it’s unlikely to pose a health risk.
- Many Australians may unknowingly be putting their health and the health of their children and neighbours at risk because they don’t know the dangers of asbestos or know where it might be found in and around homes.
- During renovations or the demolition of homes containing asbestos, asbestos fibres can be released into the air and if inhaled can lead to asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma.
- Not only homes constructed of fibro contain asbestos. Asbestos may be found in every room in the home. It may be behind wall and floor tiles, in walls, ceilings, under floor coverings including lino and carpet and around hot water systems.