Displaying items by tag: asbestos

The peak body representing councils in Western Sydney, the Western Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (WSROC) is urging do-it-yourself home renovators and building trades to ‘think ahead’ before working on homes built before 1990 because of the threat of deadly asbestos.

“Over 4,000 people still die every year of asbestos-related disease in Australia, more than four times the national road toll,” said WSROC President, Councillor Barry Calvert.

“If your home was built before 1990, it could contain asbestos.

"Older style ‘fibro’ homes are of particular concern.

“However, in all older homes, asbestos can be found throughout the home — in walls, bathrooms, ceilings, floors, laundries, kitchens, roofs, fences and garages.

“Asbestos is dangerous when damaged, disturbed or deteriorating so you shouldn't remove it yourself. It’s deadly.

“If you're looking to renovate, planning ahead will help avoid delays and cost blowouts,” said Councillor Calvert.

Councillor Calvert urges do-it-yourself home renovators and building trades to ‘Be Asbestos Ready’.

“Before you begin a renovation, please follow these three simple steps,” he said.

• “Think ahead: Remember that asbestos was used in over 3,000 building products and can be found throughout the home.
• “Plan ahead: Exposure to asbestos fibres can cause cancer. Fibres from disturbed, damaged or deteriorating asbestos are easily inhaled and can be a health risk. There’s no fast or easy way to remove it, so plan ahead to avoid delays and cost blowouts.
• “Get a professional: Please don’t risk your health, or anyone else’s health. If you’re renovating, start by contacting a licensed asbestos professional if you aren’t trained to locate, manage or remove asbestos.”

It is important to remember that asbestos waste cannot be disposed of in regular waste bins or through council bulky waste clean-ups.

 For more information on asbestos safety and safe asbestos disposal, visit asbestos.nsw.gov.au