Home Renovator Hazards
Asbestos
Asbestos can pose a serious health risk. People most at risk are home renovators and their families, as most people do not fully understand the health implications involved.
1 in 3 Australian homes contains building materials containing asbestos. If your home was built or renovated before 1985 it is likely that your home will contain asbestos. The risk to families is when the building materials containing asbestos are disturbed or damaged and this can release dangerous dust fibres that can be inhaled.
Serious Health Risks
Asbestos when disturbed releases dangerous fine particles of dust containing asbestos fibres. Breathing in the dust containing asbestos fibres can cause asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma (cancer in the lining of the lung). It is essential that all safety precautions are taken and observed to reduce the health risks when disturbing asbestos in the home.
Where can you find asbestos in the home?
Asbestos can be found in a range of products, including:
- Fibro sheeting (flat and corrugated), which was used in internal and external walls and ceilings, fencing, carports, garages, infill panels for windows and doors, sheeting under floor tiles, bathroom walls, backing to floor tiles and sheet vinyl, and carpet underlay
- Water drainage and flue pipes
- Roofing shingles and guttering
Safely disposing of asbestos waste
Asbestos fibres are hazardous when inhaled. They can be released into the air when asbestos products are incorrectly handled, stored or transported for disposal.
Ensure asbestos waste has been wetted and sealed in heavy duty plastic prior to transportation to a lawful waste facility such as a licensed landfill.
Avoiding the dangers of accepting fill on your land - Important information for landholders
Beware: you can devalue your property and risk the health of yourself and your family.
Don't risk hefty fines and clean-up costs.
This brochure contains important information for landholders about accepting fill on their property. Some fill may be contaminated, which can harm your family's health, permanently devalue your property and leave you with substantial cleanup costs.
You may also face on-the-spot fines or prosecution for illegally using waste as landfill.
If you're unsure, ask your local council or call DECCW's Environment Line on 131 555.
Don't risk a $5,000 fine or penalties of up to $1 million.
By following the simple steps below you will minimise the risks and avoid the dangers of accepting fill on your property.
Asbestos Awareness Month
November is National Asbestos Awareness Month, which aims to alert Australian's to the dangers of working with asbestos during home renovations and maintenance by educating them where asbestos might be found in and around homes.
http://www.asbestosawareness.com.au
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