Last week was Asbestos Awareness Week, reminding owners of older homes to be aware of potential exposure during renovations or even following fire damage.
Homes built before 1990 are likely to contain asbestos materials, which become dangerous when damaged or disturbed. If you’re planning a DIY project, you can assume asbestos could be present almost anywhere - cladding, eaves, electrical switchboards, linings, pipes, roofing or floor underlays.
"It’s vital to engage a licensed assessor for inspection and testing, and if asbestos is found, ensure it’s removed by a licensed professional”, HIA Managing Director Jocelyn Martin suggests.
With Summer invariably bringing an increased fire risk across much of Australia, the Asbestos and Silica Safety and Eradication Agency (ASSEA) is likewise urging property owners to be vigilant about the dangers of asbestos in fire-damaged properties.
Bushfires can cause asbestos-containing materials to crack, break, or spall, releasing fibres into the environment. These materials often remain in debris after the fire, posing the highest risk during clean-up.
CEO Jodie Deakes highlighted the importance of awareness, saying that bushfires release fibres into the air, so it’s crucial for homeowners to include asbestos safety in their bushfire preparation and recovery plans.
“Cleaning up after a disaster event is significantly more dangerous and more expensive if asbestos is present, and you may find that your insurance doesn’t provide the cover you need”, Deakes warned.
“You can lower your risk of accidental damage and uninsured costs if you check and plan for the presence of asbestos before disaster strikes and, if possible, have it safely removed.”
Key safety precautions include:
- Do not disturb debris. Fire-damaged materials, including asbestos, can become airborne when moved, increasing exposure risks.
- Engage professionals. Licensed asbestos removalists and assessors should handle clean-up efforts to ensure safety.
- Avoid exposure. If asbestos contamination is suspected, avoid entering the property until it has been inspected and declared safe by authorities.
Check now whether your insurance policy covers asbestos-related incidents and incorporate asbestos safety into bushfire preparation and recovery plans. If concerns linger, contact state authorities or professional contractors for a thorough assessment of your property.