Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Asbestos is a material that is used for construction. It is an umbrella term for six silicate minerals that are composed of fibres made of microscopic fibrils which are released by processes such as abrasion. It is highly heat-resistant and is a very good electrical insulator.
Inhalation of asbestos fibres can cause different illnesses, such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. The risk of developing these diseases, particularly lung cancer, greatly increases when a person smokes.
When asbestos is in any way disturbed or broken, minute quantities of fibres get suspended in the air and everyone in the vicinity will breathe them in. People who are exposed to asbestos while doing activities of daily living do not notice any signs or symptoms until about two or three decades after their first exposure.
The majority of products used for construction now, do not have asbestos in them. In fact, if a product contains asbestos, it should be indicated and labeled clearly as such.
If you think there is asbestos in your property, do not panic. Contact the professionals as soon as possible. Do not do anything to the surface, especially if you’re planning to do a DIY project. Do not attempt to clean it up if you have already damaged the material and wait for professional help.
Asbestos fibers are very small, so they cannot be seen by the naked eye. You can always check raw materials if they are marked as asbestos. However, if the material has no label, it is best to hire an asbestos specialist who will likely collect and send samples to a NATA accredited laboratory for testing.
There are many known asbestos materials and products. They are usually manufactured into two different kinds: friable and non-friable.
Also known as non-friable asbestos, bonded asbestos are bonded by vinyl, resin, cement or any other similar material. Unless it is damaged or weathered excessively, this form of material is considerably safe.
Friable asbestos, on the other hand, is any loose or raw asbestos, including materials that can be crushed by hand pressure. It is usually found in ceilings, pipeworks, or boilers. Friable asbestos may also come from bonded asbestos that has been damaged or broken by mechanical force.
Disposing of asbestos in general waste skips, rubbish bins, or other sites is illegal. You can only dispose of asbestos waste at facilities that are licensed by the Department of Environment and Science (DES). You should never dump asbestos illegally because it creates a significant health risk.
Asbestos inspection is conducted to thoroughly inspect a property for asbestos-containing material. It is essential to do this before the removal process in order to find the best plan of action that will not cause harm to you and your family.
Until the late 1980s, the use of asbestos for construction purposes was popular in Australia. In 2004, it was totally banned. Asbestos is commonly found in buildings, homes, and other properties that were built during this period.
Removing asbestos without the advice and supervision of a licensed professional is highly discouraged due to its potential health risks. Homeowners do not have the skills and equipment needed to prevent exposure to asbestos. This may put their health at risk.