And the Facts You Need to Know
Asbestos is one of those topics that tends to attract a lot of confusion. Some people still think it’s only an issue in industrial buildings. Others believe you can spot it easily or that it’s safe if painted over. Unfortunately, many of these myths lead to unsafe decisions.
At Myers Asbestos Removal, we’ve worked with property owners, landlords and tradies across Greater Bendigo, Ballarat and Central Victoria—and we’ve heard it all. So today, we’re clearing the air and separating myth from fact when it comes to asbestos.
Myth 1: “You can tell if it’s asbestos just by looking at it.”
Fact: You can’t identify asbestos just by sight.
Asbestos fibres are microscopic, and the materials they’re used in often look identical to non-asbestos alternatives. Cement sheeting, insulation, tiles and vinyl flooring may all contain asbestos—but they don’t look suspicious. The only way to know for sure is through professional testing in a certified lab.
If your home or building was constructed before 1990, you should assume asbestos may be present unless proven otherwise.
Myth 2: “Asbestos is banned, so it’s not in homes anymore.”
Fact: Asbestos was banned in Australia in 2003—but it’s still in millions of buildings.
While the ban stopped new asbestos products from being imported, sold or used, it did nothing to remove the existing asbestos in homes, schools, sheds and workplaces across the country.
In regional Victoria, older homes, farm buildings and commercial properties commonly still contain asbestos in roofing, walls, eaves, fences and flooring. Unless it’s been removed, it’s likely still there.
Myth 3: “Asbestos is only dangerous when you breathe it in large amounts.”
Fact: There’s no safe level of asbestos exposure.
Health authorities, including Safe Work Australia and the World Health Organization, are clear on this point: inhaling even small amounts of asbestos fibres can be harmful.
Diseases like mesothelioma and asbestosis can result from low-level or short-term exposure—especially if it happens repeatedly over time. The risk increases dramatically when asbestos is disturbed without protection, such as during DIY renovations.
Myth 4: “It’s safe to remove asbestos yourself if you wear a mask.”
Fact: A mask alone won’t protect you.
While P2 respirators provide some level of protection, asbestos removal is about more than just a mask. Proper removal requires:
- Full PPE including coveralls, gloves, and eye protection
- HEPA-filtered vacuums and negative air pressure units
- Water suppression techniques to reduce fibre release
- Controlled containment and EPA-compliant disposal
In Victoria, you are legally prohibited from removing more than 10m² of bonded asbestos unless you hold a licence. Friable (crumbly) asbestos can only be removed by a Class A licensed removalist.
Myth 5: “If it’s painted, it’s safe.”
Fact: Paint can delay exposure, but it’s not a solution.
Painting over asbestos-containing materials may help keep fibres sealed in place—for a while. But over time, paint deteriorates, especially in outdoor areas or under moisture and UV exposure. Once cracked or peeled, it no longer provides a barrier.
Worse still, painting asbestos (especially with sanding or scraping prep) can disturb the material and release fibres. If you’re unsure, don’t paint—test and manage first.
Myth 6: “Asbestos only affects old commercial buildings and industrial sites.”
Fact: Asbestos is widespread in residential homes, especially in regional Victoria.
Yes, commercial and industrial buildings often contain asbestos—but so do:
- Weatherboard homes
- Brick veneer houses
- Farmhouses, sheds and garages
- Post-war public housing
- Schools, shops and council buildings
If your property—or the property you’re working on—was built before 1990, it may contain asbestos in hidden places like under floor coverings, behind tiles, or in insulation.
Myth 7: “If asbestos is in good condition, I don’t need to worry.”
Fact: While undisturbed asbestos is lower risk, it still needs management.
It’s true that bonded asbestos in good condition poses less danger if left untouched. However, it must still be clearly labelled, recorded in an asbestos register (for workplaces), and monitored regularly for signs of deterioration.
If you’re planning renovations, repairs, or even routine maintenance, knowing where asbestos is—and how to manage it—is vital. Otherwise, you risk accidental exposure and legal breaches.
Know the Facts. Stay Safe.
Misinformation about asbestos puts people at risk. Whether you’re a homeowner, a tradie, a landlord or a property manager, understanding the facts helps you take the right steps to keep everyone safe.
If you’re unsure about a material in your home, don’t take chances. Get it tested. Get it removed. Get it done properly.
How Myers Asbestos Removal Can Help
We’re a local, licensed asbestos removal team servicing Greater Bendigo, Ballarat, Castlemaine, Kyneton and surrounding towns. We provide:
- Asbestos inspections and sample testing
- Safe removal of friable and non-friable materials
- EPA-approved transport and disposal
- Clear advice to homeowners, landlords, and builders
- Workplace compliance support and clearance inspections
We’re here to bust the myths and make asbestos management straightforward, safe and fully compliant with Victorian regulations.
Have Questions? Talk to the Experts.
Still unsure whether a material in your home or job site is asbestos? Worried about managing it before a renovation or sale?
Contact Myers Asbestos Removal today for peace of mind, professional advice and reliable service across regional Victoria.