Asbestos Risks & Removal
Health Risks
If left undisturbed asbestos generally does not pose a health risk however with home renovations, particularly DYI, the home renovator needs to be aware of the dangers of asbestos, where it may be found in the home and how best to manage it.
When disturbed during renovations and home maintenance, fibres can be released into the air. If inhaled asbestos poses significant health risks. It can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
Mr Fluffy loose fill asbestos
There is some anecdotal evidence to suggest that a very small number of homes in the Parramatta area may have had loose fill asbestos installed in their homes during the 1960s and 1970s by a contractor called Mr Fluffy. Visit SafeWork NSW for more information.
Who can remove asbestos material?
Friable Asbestos
The removal of any friable asbestos must only be undertaken by a licensed asbestos removalist.
Bonded Asbestos
A person may remove less than 10 square metres (10 sq. m) of bonded asbestos however the removal and disposal of the asbestos must be carried out in accordance with SafeWork NSW.
The removal of more than 10 square metres of bonded asbestos material must only be undertaken by a licensed asbestos removalist.
To help assess the risks you can do a 20-point safety check.
Asbestos in Floods and Emergencies
Cleaning up after storms, bushfires, flood, buildings fires and other incidents can involve asbestos. Be aware and stay safe around asbestos after emergencies and disasters.
For more information on cleaning up, identifying asbestos risk, asbestos removal, and finding a licenced asbestos removalist visit Asbestos in NSW
Disposing of Asbestos
Asbestos can NEVER be disposed of in your household bins, skip bins, Council Household Clean-up or by roadsides.
NSW waste facilities that accept household asbestos from the public are listed on the NSW Environment Protection Authority website.
Always phone the landfill you plan to visit in advance to ensure they accept household asbestos waste.