Asbestos has always been an important building material because of its low pricing and durability. In Australia, buildings constructed in the 1980s were built with asbestos (ACM),
According to a 1976 report, only 2% of homes in Victoria were still ACM-free, and on December 31, 2003, the government banned the use of asbestos in building materials. There are still buildings that are contaminated with asbestos. If you want to look into your building, don’t ignore these 5 signs as they are indicators of asbestos contamination.
1. Your home was built in the 1980s or earlier
If your building was built during or before the 1980s, it is more likely to be contaminated with asbestos. At that time, floor tiles, walls, ceilings, and all other building materials contained asbestos.
2. Asbestos roofing sheets and tiles
Flat corrugated sheets and asphalt tiles are more likely to be contaminated with asbestos. However, they used white asbestos, the least dangerous of the three types, but it can still pose health risks.
3. Asbestos Flooring Tiles
Vinyl tiles, vinyl sheets with paper or millboard, and 9”x9” flooring tiles were famous to have asbestos. The chance of asbestos is higher if the building was built in the 80s.
4. Asbestos insulation
Asbestos was famous for its insulation and fireproofing properties. However, gray or white asbestos was widely used as pipe insulation. They also use White asbestos tapes on pipes as insulation.
5. Asbestos ceiling tiles and contaminated fixtures
Older ceilings may contain asbestos cement sheets. Check roof hatches, light bases, and vent covers for asbestos contamination.
If you suspect that your home is contaminated with asbestos and is in good condition, leave the material alone. On the other hand, if it is in poor condition, do not disassemble or scrub it. Otherwise, the fibers can become airborne and enter your body through breathing. To deal with the situation, call in a professional asbestos remover. Calling in a professional is the only real solution to dealing with this health hazard. So, if you suspect your home contains asbestos, notify your local authorities and arrange for a survey or asbestos removal by a licensed contractor
