Renovating a home is an exciting prospect, especially if you own an older property with the potential for restoration. However, if your property was built before the late 1980s, you may unknowingly be putting yourself and your family at risk of asbestos exposure. Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) were widely used in Australian homes, and disturbing them during DIY renovations can release harmful fibres into the air. Knowing the dangers and how to protect yourself is crucial before you begin any project.
Why Asbestos Was Common in Older Homes
Asbestos was a popular building material in Australia due to its affordability, durability, and heat resistance. It was used extensively in:
- Roofing and Insulation: Found in corrugated roof sheets and ceiling insulation.
- Wall and Floor Materials: Used in fibro cement sheets, vinyl floor tiles, and backing for wall panels.
- Kitchens and Bathrooms: Incorporated in splashbacks and piping insulation.
- Garages and Fencing: Often included in outbuildings and boundary fences.
While these materials are typically safe if left undisturbed, DIY renovations can disrupt them, releasing asbestos fibres into the air.
The Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
When asbestos fibres are inhaled, they can become lodged in the lungs, leading to serious health conditions. These include:
- Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease causing scarring and breathing difficulties.
- Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs or abdomen.
- Lung Cancer: Increased risk in individuals exposed to asbestos over time.
The latency period for these diseases can be decades, meaning symptoms may not appear until many years after exposure. This makes asbestos an especially insidious hazard.
Common DIY Renovation Activities That Disturb Asbestos
Many common renovation tasks can inadvertently disturb ACMs, including:
- Demolishing Walls or Ceilings: Fibro sheets or plasterboard may contain asbestos.
- Removing Old Tiles or Flooring: Vinyl floor tiles or adhesives often included asbestos.
- Cutting or Drilling: Making holes in asbestos-containing materials releases fibres.
- Replacing Roofing: Asbestos cement sheets are common in older roofs.
Without proper precautions, these activities can lead to the release of dangerous asbestos fibres into the air.
The Legal and Safety Requirements for Asbestos
In Victoria, strict laws regulate the handling, removal, and disposal of asbestos. Homeowners are legally responsible for ensuring that ACMs are managed safely. Key regulations include:
- Licensed Removal: Only licensed asbestos removalists can handle friable (crumbly) asbestos and large quantities of bonded asbestos.
- Proper Disposal: Asbestos waste must be transported and disposed of at approved facilities.
- Notification Requirements: Significant asbestos removal may require notification to WorkSafe Victoria.
Ignoring these regulations can result in hefty fines and endanger your health and that of your neighbours.
Steps to Protect Yourself During Renovations
If you suspect asbestos in your home, take the following steps to protect yourself and your family:
- Conduct an Asbestos Inspection: Hire a licensed asbestos assessor to inspect your property and identify any ACMs.
- Avoid DIY Removal: Never attempt to remove asbestos materials yourself. Engage licensed professionals for safe removal and disposal.
- Minimise Disturbance: If ACMs are identified but remain in good condition, avoid disturbing them during your renovations.
- Use Protective Equipment: If you must work near potential ACMs, wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as a P2 respirator, disposable coveralls, and gloves.
- Seal Off Work Areas: Use plastic sheeting and duct tape to seal off the area where you’re working, and ensure proper ventilation to reduce fibre exposure.
How Myers Asbestos Removal Can Help
At Myers Asbestos Removal, we specialise in identifying and managing asbestos risks during home renovations. Our services include:
- Professional Inspections: Our licensed assessors can inspect your property and provide a comprehensive asbestos register.
- Safe Removal: We handle all types of ACMs, ensuring their safe removal and disposal in compliance with Victorian regulations.
- Advice for Renovators: We provide expert advice to homeowners, helping you plan renovations safely and avoid asbestos-related hazards.
- Post-Removal Clearance: After removal, we conduct air monitoring and clearance inspections to ensure your home is safe.
Don’t Take Risks with Asbestos
Renovating an older home can be rewarding, but the risks associated with asbestos exposure are too great to ignore. By engaging licensed professionals and following safety protocols, you can protect yourself, your family, and your property from harm.
If you’re planning renovations and suspect asbestos may be present, contact Myers Asbestos Removal today. We’re here to provide the expertise and support you need to complete your project safely.