If any of you are at risk of coming into contact with asbestos while renovating, painting, or doing any other similar work, there are steps you should take.
Below is a short guide to minimize any potential risk and increase your safety and the safety of others.
Before starting any work, please make sure there is little or no risk. For example, before any DIY work, be sure to consult a professional about dealing with asbestos.
According to the government group Asbestos Safety, about one-third of all Australian homes are contaminated with asbestos.
Do not remove it if it is in good condition. However, if it must be removed, use a qualified professional with an asbestos removal license.
Where is asbestos found?
Many places in the house are contaminated with asbestos. You can see it by cleaning your gutters, roof sheets, waves, siding, and imitation brick siding.
You can also find it inside your home, including on ceilings and floors. They are also found in vinyl sheet flooring, wall sheets, carpet and tile underlayment, and flexible building panels.
Some of the insulation in your wood-burning furnace is also contaminated with asbestos. It is also found under wood stove fireplaces, in-floor tiles, in kitchen backsplashes, and in the ceiling.
Fences in your yard, sheds, and carports are often made with asbestos.
You can’t determine the presence of asbestos by just looking at it. If you have any doubts about your building, ask the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) to examine your building.
How much exposure is too much?
According to the Australian government, even a small exposure to these fibers can be dangerous. Therefore, if you know your home is made from this product, it is best to take it to a professional and have them remove it.
