Asbestos is a hazardous material that has been used extensively in Australian homes and buildings for much of the 20th century. Known for its fire-resistant properties and insulating qualities, it was a popular choice in construction and building materials until its dangers became widely recognised. Despite being banned in Australia in 2003, many properties still contain asbestos, particularly those built before the early 2000s. If you’re living in or considering purchasing a house with asbestos, you may be wondering: is it safe to stay in a home with asbestos present?
In this blog, we’ll explore whether it’s safe to live in a house with asbestos in Australia, the risks involved, when removal is necessary, and how to manage asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) safely. We’ll also look at the role of professional asbestos removal companies, such as Asbestaway, in ensuring your home is free from asbestos hazards.
What Is Asbestos and Why Is It Dangerous?
Asbestos refers to a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals that were once used in a variety of construction materials due to their durability and resistance to heat, fire, and electrical damage. Commonly found in materials such as insulation, roofing, cement products, and floor tiles, asbestos was widely used in Australian homes and commercial buildings from the 1940s until the early 2000s.
The danger of asbestos comes when its fibres are disturbed and become airborne. When inhaled, these fibres can become trapped in the lungs, leading to serious health issues, including:
- Asbestosis: A lung disease that causes scarring and shortness of breath.
- Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer primarily affecting the lining of the lungs, heart, and abdomen.
- Lung Cancer: A significant risk for those exposed to asbestos over long periods.
- Pleural Thickening: Thickening and scarring of the lung linings that can lead to breathing difficulties.
The health risks associated with asbestos exposure are severe, which is why the material has been banned in Australia. However, many homes and buildings still contain asbestos, and the key question for homeowners and tenants is: can you live in a house with asbestos?
Can You Live in a House with Asbestos?
In short, yes, it is possible to live in a house with asbestos, but the key is whether or not the asbestos is disturbed or in a condition that could release dangerous fibres into the air. Asbestos itself is not inherently dangerous if it remains intact and undisturbed. For example, asbestos in roofing materials or cement sheet walls that are in good condition poses minimal risk as long as no renovation, demolition, or maintenance work is done that could release fibres.
However, if asbestos is deteriorating or being disturbed, it can become hazardous. The risk arises when the asbestos-containing material (ACM) is damaged, broken, or disturbed, allowing fibres to be released into the air and inhaled. In situations like these, asbestos removal or encapsulation may be necessary to protect the health of residents.
When Should You Be Concerned About Asbestos in Your Home?
Living in a home with asbestos is generally safe as long as the material is in good condition and hasn’t been disturbed. However, you should be cautious and vigilant, particularly in the following scenarios:
1. Renovations and DIY Projects
If you’re planning any home renovations or DIY projects in a house built before 2003, it’s crucial to check whether there is any asbestos present. Disturbing asbestos materials during renovations – for example, when drilling, cutting, or sanding – can release dangerous fibres into the air. Even minor work, like installing a new light fixture or removing old floor tiles, can disturb asbestos.
2. Signs of Asbestos Deterioration
Over time, asbestos materials can deteriorate, especially if they’ve been exposed to moisture or environmental elements. Signs of deterioration may include visible damage to the material (cracking, crumbling, or fraying), or the presence of dust in areas where asbestos-containing materials are located. If the asbestos is deteriorating, it is critical to consult a professional for removal or encapsulation.
3. Water or Fire Damage
Water or fire damage can weaken asbestos materials, making them more likely to release fibres. For example, if an asbestos cement sheet has been damaged by a leak, it may start to crumble, increasing the risk of fibre release. In the case of fire, asbestos materials can be damaged or even dislodged, releasing harmful particles into the air.
4. Asbestos in High-Traffic Areas
If asbestos is present in areas of your home that experience frequent foot traffic or disturbance, such as flooring or ceiling panels, there is a higher risk of fibres being released. Asbestos tiles, for example, may become loose or damaged over time as people walk on them or as furniture is moved around.
5. The Presence of Cracked or Broken Asbestos Products
Any asbestos-containing product that is cracked or broken must be treated with caution. For example, if roofing or wall sheeting is cracked, there is a greater risk of fibres becoming airborne. In this case, the material may need to be professionally removed or encapsulated to prevent exposure.
Also Read: Who Can Remove Asbestos in NSW?
How to Safely Manage Asbestos in Your Home
If you suspect or know that your home contains asbestos, it’s essential to manage it carefully. Here are a few guidelines to follow:
1. Leave Undisturbed Materials Alone
If the asbestos materials in your home are in good condition and not located in high-traffic areas, the best course of action is often to leave them alone. Asbestos poses no risk if it’s not disturbed. If you’re unsure about the condition of the materials, it’s a good idea to have a professional asbestos assessor inspect your property.
2. Encapsulation
In some cases, encapsulation – the process of sealing the asbestos-containing material with a protective coating – may be an option. Encapsulation prevents the asbestos from becoming airborne by keeping the fibres locked inside. This method is often used when removal is not feasible or when the material is too difficult to access.
3. Asbestos Testing and Inspection
If you’re concerned about the presence of asbestos in your home, it’s highly recommended to have an asbestos inspector or assessor visit the property. They can take samples of materials and have them tested in a laboratory to determine whether they contain asbestos. Testing is essential before starting any renovation or maintenance work.
4. Professional Asbestos Removal
If asbestos-containing materials are deteriorating or need to be disturbed, professional asbestos removal is the safest option. Trained experts will safely remove and dispose of the hazardous materials, minimising the risk of exposure to you and your family.
When Should You Remove Asbestos from Your Home?
In general, asbestos should only be removed if:
- The asbestos-containing material is damaged, deteriorating, or posing a risk of fibre release.
- Renovations or construction are planned in areas containing asbestos, especially if the materials are likely to be disturbed.
- You’re selling the property, and potential buyers require a clear indication that the property is free of asbestos hazards.
Removing asbestos is a complex and hazardous process that must be carried out by licensed professionals to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
Asbestaway: Experts in Safe Asbestos Removal
Asbestaway is a leading provider of asbestos removal services in Australia, specialising in both residential and commercial properties. With a commitment to safety and environmental responsibility, Asbestaway offers expert services to safely manage and remove asbestos from your home or business.
Why Choose Asbestaway?
- Licensed and Experienced Professionals: Asbestaway employs fully licensed and certified asbestos removal experts who have the skills and experience to handle all types of asbestos-containing materials.
- Comprehensive Asbestos Services: From inspection and testing to removal and disposal, Asbestaway offers a full range of asbestos-related services to ensure your property is free from hazards.
- Safe and Environmentally Responsible: Asbestaway follows strict safety protocols and environmental guidelines, ensuring that asbestos is removed and disposed of in the safest and most environmentally responsible manner.
- Clearance Certificates: After the removal of asbestos, Asbestaway provides clearance certificates to confirm that the area is free from asbestos fibres and safe for reoccupation.
If you’re living in a home with asbestos and need professional guidance or removal services, Asbestaway is a trusted name that you can rely on for a safe and stress-free solution.
Conclusion
In Australia, it is possible to live in a house with asbestos, provided the material is in good condition and hasn’t been disturbed. However, it’s essential to manage and monitor asbestos-containing materials carefully to minimise the risk of exposure. If you’re planning renovations, or if the asbestos is deteriorating or damaged, it’s crucial to consult a professional asbestos removal service. Companies like Asbestaway are well-equipped to assess, remove, and safely dispose of asbestos, ensuring your home is both safe and compliant with Australian regulations. Remember, when it comes to asbestos, safety should always come first.