Asbestos is a naturally-occurring mineral once used as a highly effective and cheap fire-retardant and acoustic and thermal insulator for home construction in the 1900s. However, the substance is dangerous for human health, and many countries have since banned using asbestos. Prolonged exposure to asbestos fibres can result in lung disease and asbestosis.
If you have recently bought an old property, you should consider getting an asbestos building inspection. This is to reduce the risk of exposure to possibly damaged material.
If you tick any of these tell-tale signs, you should get an asbestos clearance inspection as soon as possible:
Your Building is Old
Many properties built up until 1985 contain high levels of asbestos. The mineral was once used when constructing various buildings like schools and houses. Asbestos was commonly used as insulation and paint for many building components, such as:
- Ducts
- Fireplaces
- Boilers
- Sheets
- Pipes
- Ceiling and floor tiles
- Siding
- Roof shingles
- Pipe cement
If any of these parts are broken, you risk exposure to asbestos fibres, so you should have your property inspected if it was built before the 1980s.
Check for Damages
Tears, abrasions, and water damage might contain asbestos. If you think your home or commercial property has asbestos, limit access to the area and do not disturb it as much as possible. Asbestos that has been sawed, sanded into a powder, scraped, or crumbles easily when handled can become a health hazard.
Materials in good condition may not be considered dangerous, but the slightest damage could release asbestos fibres. Immediately contact a professional when planning to renovate or if you see slightly damaged asbestos material.
Your Roof is Corrugated
Corrugated roofing from the 1920s to the 1970s contained asbestos. Chrysotile, also known as white asbestos, might be found in cement roof shingles
Chrysotile is also referred to as white asbestos, characterized by its grey-white, fibrous, and silky appearance. This is the most widely used asbestos for commercial purposes globally, and while it is considered less harmful, chrysolite is still a dangerous carcinogen.
Testing for Asbestos in Australia
It wasn’t until 2003 that Australia banned using asbestos for construction purposes. This means the risk of moving into a building with asbestos is high. Many old homes are often chock-full of asbestos. Before moving into your new property, do not forget to have a professional inspect it. Contact Global Asbestos Audits for asbestos testing and removal.