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Asbestos
Asbestos is present in many buildings constructed before the 1980s and was commonly used because of its durability, fire resistance and insulating properties.
Asbestos was used in materials such as:
- Cement sheeting (fibro)
- Drainage and flue pipes
- Roofing, guttering and flexible building boards
- Brakes, clutches and gaskets
- Home roof insulation
Asbestos presents a health risk if the material is broken, deteriorating, or disturbed in such a way that dust containing asbestos fibres is produced. The use of all forms of asbestos has been banned nationally since 31 December 2003.
Asbestos-containing materials can release asbestos fibres into the air whenever they are disturbed, and especially during the following activities:
- Any direct action, such as drilling, boring, cutting, filing, brushing, grinding, sanding, breaking, smashing or blowing with compressed air
- Removal of asbestos containing materials
- The renovation or demolition of buildings containing asbestos
Generally, asbestos removal should be undertaken only by a licensed removalist. Unlicensed removal of limited amounts of asbestos is permitted in certain circumstances. To find out more, visit www.worksafe.vic.gov.au
It is difficult to tell whether a building material contains asbestos. The only way to be certain is to have a sample of the material tested in an accredited laboratory. (See below for contact details.)
|
Authority
|
Role
|
Phone
|
| WorkSafe Victoria |
For a list of licensed asbestos removalists in your area, complaints regarding work carried out by an asbestos removalist, and enquiries or complaints about asbestos in the workplace |
1800 136 089 |
| Council’s Environmental Health Unit |
For enquiries or complaints about the incorrect removal or disposal of asbestos in your neighbourhood. |
9262 6197 |
| Department of Human Services Environmental Health Unit |
For enquiries about the potential health effects of exposure to asbestos |
9637 4156 |
| Environment Protection Authority |
For a list of licensed asbestos disposal sites in your areas and enquiries about the correct disposal of asbestos-containing materials |
9695 2722 |
| National Association Testing Authorities |
To obtain a NATA-accredited laboratory in your area that can identify asbestos |
9329 1633 |
Useful Guides
Download the following booklets: Your Health and Safety Guide to Asbestos and Asbestos in the Home from the Work Safe and DHS websites respectively.