The Hidden Dangers of Asbestos
Asbestos was once widely used in construction materials across Australia, especially in homes and buildings from the 1950s to the 1980s. It was valued for its heat-resistant properties, making it a preferred material in roofing, insulation, and flooring. However, after 2003, asbestos was officially banned in Australia due to the severe health risks it poses.
Despite this ban, many Australians still live and work in buildings that contain asbestos. The dangers of asbestos exposure remain prevalent, particularly in homes and buildings constructed before the ban on asbestos was implemented. Asbestos removal services are still critical for any property built before 2003. Asbestos fibres can linger in the air and cause serious health issues even decades after installation.
Source: According to Safe Work Australia and the Queensland Government, exposure to asbestos fibres can cause diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. These health risks can take decades to develop, making early detection and removal critical.
Why Asbestos Is Still Dangerous Today
When asbestos-containing materials deteriorate or are disturbed—whether during renovations, wear and tear, or natural aging—they can release tiny fibres into the air. These fibres are so small that they can’t be seen by the naked eye, yet once inhaled, they can become trapped in the lungs and cause serious diseases like:
Mesothelioma
A rare and aggressive cancer linked directly to asbestos exposure.
Lung Cancer
Long-term exposure to asbestos fibres significantly increases the risk of lung cancer.
Asbestosis
A chronic lung disease caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibres, leading to scarring of lung tissue and severe breathing problems.
These diseases can take decades to develop after exposure, which is why asbestos continues to be a health risk today, even in buildings constructed many years ago.
Common Areas to Find Asbestos in Your Property
If your home or business was built before 2003, there’s a high chance it contains asbestos. Some of the most common places where asbestos may be found include:
- Roofing Materials: Asbestos was commonly used in roofing sheets and tiles.
- Ceiling Tiles: Textured or popcorn ceilings often contain asbestos.
- Flooring Materials: Vinyl tiles and carpet backing may contain asbestos.
- Insulation: Asbestos was commonly used in pipe insulation, wall insulation, and even in electrical equipment.
- Walls and Roof Cladding: Asbestos cement sheeting was used for cladding homes.
If your property was built before the 1980s, it’s highly recommended to have it inspected for asbestos, especially if you plan to renovate or make any structural changes.
Why DIY Asbestos Removal Is Not Safe
Many people may consider removing asbestos themselves, especially during renovations, but DIY asbestos removal is both dangerous and illegal in certain cases. In Queensland, removing friable asbestos (easily disturbed asbestos) requires professional certification.
Disturbing asbestos without the proper tools, knowledge, or safety measures can release harmful fibers into the air, putting everyone in the vicinity at serious risk. To ensure the asbestos is removed safely and in compliance with local regulations, it’s essential to hire a professional asbestos removal service in Townsville.
Local Trust: Asbestos removal in Townsville is regulated by local council guidelines and strict Queensland laws. Always rely on licensed professionals to handle asbestos removal.
Professional Asbestos Removal Services in Townsville
At Townsville Asbestos Removal, we specialise in safe and compliant asbestos removal services. With over 60 years of combined experience, we are licensed to handle both friable and non-friable asbestos. Our team ensures that all asbestos-containing materials are removed and disposed of safely, adhering to all safety regulations to protect your property and health.
Our asbestos removal services include:
- Asbestos Testing and Inspection: Thorough testing to detect any asbestos in your home or business.
- Safe Asbestos Removal: Our team handles the removal of both friable and non-friable asbestos safely and legally.
- Air Monitoring: We ensure the air quality is safe during and after the removal process.
Compliance with Regulations: Our team follows all Queensland and Australian safety standards for asbestos removal.
What to Do If You Suspect Asbestos in Your Property
Here’s how we can help:
- Contact Us for a free consultation.
- Inspection and Testing: Our certified team will inspect your property and conduct tests.
- Safe Removal: We’ll ensure the safe removal of any asbestos materials.
- Post-Removal Air Testing: We’ll test the air to ensure no asbestos fibres remain.
How to Get Started with Professional Asbestos Removal
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I remove asbestos myself in Queensland?
In Queensland, homeowners can remove non-friable asbestos (e.g., cement sheeting) themselves if the area is less than 10 square meters. However, friable asbestos removal (e.g., insulation) requires professional certification. DIY asbestos removal is unsafe and may result in harmful exposure.
How do I know if my house has asbestos?
You should schedule an asbestos inspection with a licensed professional. We offer thorough inspections to detect any asbestos-containing materials in your home or business.
How much does asbestos removal cost in Townsville?
Asbestos removal costs vary depending on the size of the area, the type of asbestos, and accessibility. We offer free quotes to help you understand the costs based on your specific needs.
Is asbestos removal covered by insurance in Australia?
Asbestos removal is generally not covered by standard home insurance policies. However, some policies may cover asbestos removal in specific situations. It’s recommended to check with your insurance provider for detailed coverage.
What are the health risks of asbestos exposure?
Exposure to asbestos fibres can lead to mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. These diseases often take decades to develop, making early detection and removal critical for health and safety.
How long does asbestos removal take?
The time required for asbestos removal depends on the size of the area and the type of asbestos. Our team will provide a clear time estimate based on your property’s requirements.
What should I do while asbestos removal is happening?
Stay away from the work area during asbestos removal. We ensure the area is properly sealed off, and air monitoring is conducted throughout the process to ensure your safety.