Content on this page is for information purposes only. See bottom of page for disclaimer and useful government links related to asbestos.
What is asbestos and why is it dangerous?
Asbestos is a mineral that was once widely used for its fire-resistant and insulating properties. However, it has been proven that asbestos is dangerous to human health and can cause cancer. Asbestos fibers can be released into the air when materials that contain asbestos are disturbed, such as during remodeling or demolition. Once inhaled, these fibers can become lodged in the lungs and cause serious health problems. Asbestos waste is usually shipped to a landfill, but it can also be burned or recycled. A common misconception about asbestos waste is that it can be disposed of in the regular trash. However, there are strict laws and regulations that govern the disposal of hazardous waste such as asbestos. This includes all products containing asbestos, including building materials, construction debris and equipment with asbestos on board.
Methods of asbestos exposure
The most common methods of asbestos exposure are inhalation and ingestion. Asbestos can be inhaled when it becomes airborne, such as when it is disturbed during renovations or demolition. It can also be ingested if it is present in food or drink. Asbestos fibers can also attach to clothing and skin, which can then lead to exposure. A person can become exposed to asbestos when they breathe in airborne asbestos fibers, or if it is swallowed. Inhalation of asbestos fibers can occur when the fibers are disturbed during renovations or demolition, such as by a forklift that picks up loose asbestos shingles.
Does it contain asbestos?
A potential asbestos hazard in the home can be a cause for concern for homeowners. In order to determine if asbestos is present in your home, you will need to know what to look for and how to test for it. There are a few steps that you can take in order to help protect yourself and your family from any potential health risks associated with asbestos.
Step One: Know what could contain asbestos. Asbestos is found in a variety of products, including insulation materials, ceiling tiles and flooring, brake pads, exhaust system components and other items.
Step Two Contact a licensed asbestos contractor. If it is found that asbestos exists in your home, it will be necessary to have the material tested in order to determine its type and level of exposure.
Step Three Get rid of any materials identified as containing asbestos.
How to protect yourself from asbestos
Asbestos is a mineral that was once commonly used in the construction of homes, schools, and other buildings. However, it has been shown to cause serious health problems, including cancer, when it is inhaled. If you are concerned that your home may contain asbestos, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from exposure. First, have your home tested for asbestos. If it does contain asbestos, have it removed by a professional. In the meantime, take precautions to avoid breathing in the dust created by asbestos removal. Wear a respirator and keep children and pets away from the work area.
Asbestos disposal
Asbestos disposal is a process that must be done with caution. There are specific steps that need to be followed in order to ensure the safety of both the person doing the disposal and the environment. In addition, there are specific laws and regulations governing asbestos disposal that must be followed. The first step in any asbestos disposal is to determine where the product was used. Chances are that if it was a building material, it was installed in a location that should be considered as a potential asbestos hotspot.
Disclaimer
Content found on this website (wizzbinz.com.au) is purely for information purposes only.
Absolutely no claim is made to its accuracy or authenticity. We do not accept any liability to any person who for the information/advice found on this page. As a visitor to this website, it is your responsibility to assess the relevance and accuracy of its content.
We take no responsibility for any information/services found on any linked websites or resources.
Useful links related to asbestos:
https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/asbestos
https://www.der.wa.gov.au/your-environment/contaminated-sites/59-asbestos
https://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/worksafe/asbestos-frequently-asked-questions
