Threat still in asbestos

A GOVERNMENT agency has launched an urgent new campaign about asbestos, with the dangerous mineral still being found in one third of Australian homes.

Australia had one of the highest rates of asbestos in the world until the mid-1980s when it was commonly used in the construction of homes and buildings, but now it is known that it can cause cancer.

The naturally occurring mineral fibre can be found on the inside or outside of homes built before 1990 and is dangerous when it is damaged, disturbed or deteriorating.

It has prompted the Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency to launch a new campaign to inform the public of their responsibilities and rights when it comes to asbestos.

The agency’s chief executive, Justine Ross, said it was important that Australians were aware of the risks it could pose.

“The campaign will encourage sellers to disclose the presence of asbestos in their properties to minimise the health risks for buyers. In some states and territories, they may be legally obligated to do this” she said.

“Similarly, we want landlords to identify, disclose and manage the presence of asbestos in their properties to minimise the health risks for renters.

Landlords may also be eligible for tax deductions for asbestos testing and removal.

“The outcome we are hoping to achieve is to educate buyers and renters about how to stay safe around asbestos by understanding where it might be in a home and how to manage it appropriately.”

Being exposed to asbestos increases the risk of developing lung, ovary and larynx cancer as well as mesothelioma.

Transport workers, miners, manufacturers, builders and electricians are among the people who have the highest risk of being exposed, with the cancers often developing decades afterwards.

A pre-purchase building inspection is not required to include whether asbestos is present in a property, though it is recommended that an asbestos professional is used for any homes built before 1990.

These professionals can help determine whether or where asbestos is present and provide guidance on how to manage its risks.

A residential property disclosure tool is also available online and provides information about when asbestos is dangerous.

Asbestos or asbestos-containing materials can be found in various locations in a home, including the walls, roof, gutters, fences and carpet.

Asbestos was banned in Australia at the end of 2003.