Asbestos was commonly used as a building material in Australian homes built before the mid 1980s. If your Sydney home was constructed prior to 1988, there is a chance it contains some form of asbestos material. However, asbestos only poses a health risk when fibres become airborne and are inhaled. As long as asbestos materials remain undisturbed and in good condition, they do not present a danger.
In this article, we will discuss:
- The history of asbestos use in Australian buildings
- Where asbestos was commonly used in older homes
- Potential health risks associated with asbestos exposure
- Safety precautions for managing asbestos materials
- When asbestos removal may be recommended
- Using building inspections to identify asbestos before purchase
The History of Asbestos Use in Australia
Asbestos was widely utilized in the Australian construction industry between the 1940s and late 1980s. Its heat resistant properties made asbestos containing products ideal for insulation, roofing, walls, and flooring. At its peak, Australia was one of the highest consumers of asbestos materials per capita.
By the early 1970s, the serious health impacts of asbestos exposure were becoming apparent. Mesothelioma and other asbestos related diseases were on the rise. In the mid 1980s, Australia began phasing out asbestos products. An official ban on all new asbestos imports and use came into effect in 2003.
Where Asbestos May be Found in Older Homes
In pre-1988 homes, asbestos was often used in:
- Roof cavities – as loose packing insulation
- Eave linings – fibro panels under roof overhangs
- External and internal wall cladding – mainly in wet areas like bathrooms & laundries
- Vinyl floor tiles, sheet vinyl floor coverings
- Pipe insulation – on hot water pipes, furnace exhausts
- Older style hot water heaters
- Backing of electrical switchboards
- Underlay for carpets
- Garages and sheds – asbestos cement roof and wall materials
Essentially, any building product made using a cement-like material could contain asbestos. This includes flat or corrugated cement sheeting used in roofing, walls, fences, and garages.
Potential Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
Most asbestos fibers are only dangerous when released into the air and inhaled. This can happen when asbestos containing materials are disturbed without safety precautions. Activities like drilling, cutting, sanding, or breaking up asbestos materials can release the hazardous fibers.
When asbestos is inhaled, the sharp fibers become lodged in lung tissues. These particles can lead to inflammation, scarring, and cell damage. Exposure has been linked to serious diseases like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Symptoms may not appear until decades after the initial inhalation.
That is why asbestos only poses a risk when fibers become airborne. Undamaged materials generally do not release hazardous particles into the environment. This means in situ asbestos can often be left alone if properly contained. Regular inspections by an asbestos assessor can confirm it remains in good condition.
Safely Managing Asbestos Materials in the Home
If your older home does contain asbestos, you can take steps to minimize exposure risks:
- Avoid disturbing materials through renovations or repairs
- Check for damage regularly – repair minor damage immediately
- Use containment measures if renovating near asbestos materials
- Follow safe work procedures if removal is necessary
- Keep household members away during any asbestos work
- Use licensed asbestos removal experts for major jobs
- Dispose of all asbestos waste at designated disposal sites
Following safety precautions will help guard against releasing asbestos fibers into the home. This keeps the materials contained and your household safe.
When Asbestos Removal is Recommended
In some instances, it may be best to have asbestos materials removed from your home. This includes situations where:
- Materials are damaged from weathering and cannot be repaired
- Renovation or demolition work will disturb the asbestos
- Materials need to be accessed frequently for maintenance
- Asbestos is in poor condition and may release fibers
- There are young children or at risk occupants in the home
Ideally, have a certified asbestos assessor inspect the materials first. They can best advise if removal is the safest option. An occupational hygienist can also perform air monitoring tests after removal to ensure the area is fiber free.
Using Pre Purchase Building Inspections to Identify Asbestos
When purchasing an older Sydney home, asbestos is a potential concern. Pre purchase building inspections by qualified professionals can help identify if and where asbestos is present.
Inspectors visually check the home for materials known to contain asbestos. Suspected areas may require samples for analysis. Labs can then confirm if asbestos is present. Asbestos materials cannot be confirmed onsite.
The inspection report provides homeowners with “peace of mind” about asbestos prior to purchase. It also alerts buyers to proper management of any materials found. This is crucial for safety during future renovations.
In summary, asbestos containing materials generally pose little risk if left undisturbed and in good repair. Regular inspections, prompt repairs, and safe handling practices can prevent hazardous exposure. Building inspections before buying older homes provides an added layer of protection. They can pinpoint asbestos locations so buyers make informed decisions about maintenance and removal.