26 November 2024
This National Asbestos Australia Week, Master Builders Australia joins industry calls for caution around ageing asbestos, particularly as the summer season approaches and more Australians undertake home renovation projects to save costs.
It’s estimated that one in three Aussie homes may still contain asbestos and tragically, around 4,000 Australians die each year from asbestos-related diseases.
With the rise in renovations and simple additions like home security installations, homeowners could unwittingly put themselves at risk by drilling into asbestos eaves to install security cameras, CCTV systems, and sensor lights.
These actions can release asbestos fibres which, when not properly controlled, can lead to serious health issues, including mesothelioma and lung cancer.
Master Builders Chief Executive Denita Wawn has urged all Australians to take care when it comes to home renovations or repairs.
“If your home was built before 1990, there’s a good chance it contains asbestos,” said Ms Wawn. “Asbestos was used in over 3,000 building products, and it can show up inside and outside, in floors, walls, ceilings, eaves, pipes and roofs.
“Most of those products are 30 to 100 years old, and the older they become, the more likely they are to release harmful asbestos fibres into the air if disturbed.
“While it’s tempting to do DIY projects to save money, the consequences can be deadly.
“You can’t tell if a material contains asbestos just by looking at it; if you think a material might contain asbestos, you should err on the side of caution and call a professional to find out for sure.
“Before you start any DIY projects, contact your local Master Builders Association to find a builder or accredited asbestos removalist.
“The Australian Government’s Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency has a whole suite of great resources available on their website,” Ms Wawn said.
For more information, please visit www.asbestossafety.gov.au
Media contact: Dee Zegarac, National Director, Media & Public Affairs
0400 493 071 | dee.zegarac@masterbuilders.com.au
