According to a recent survey conducted by the Federal Government, 1 in 3 Australian buildings contain asbestos. When it comes to handling this hazardous material, here are 10 facts you should know:

1. Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous material commonly used in the construction of buildings in the 1960s and 70s. It was made popular among manufacturers because of its sound absorption, tensile strength and heat resistance.
2. There are two types of asbestos material. Bonded asbestos fibres are mixed into another material and cannot be crumbled, pulverised or reduced to a powder by hand pressure. Friable asbestos material on the other hand is any material that contains asbestos and is in the form of a powder or dust.
3. It has long been understood that the prolonged inhalation of asbestos fibres can cause serious illnesses including malignant lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
4. Due to the health risks involved, the use of asbestos material in construction was banned in Australia in 1989 but continues to be present in some buildings to this day.
5. Surveys should be conducted on buildings constructed prior to 2003 in order to determine whether asbestos containing material is present. Such surveys are designed to identify the location, condition and maintenance required on any material containing asbestos.
6. If asbestos is in good condition and remains undisturbed, it can be manageable. However, when disturbed, asbestos releases microscopic fibres into the air that can be inhaled and may cause serious damage.
7. Owners and operators of industrial and commercial buildings are legally obliged to survey their premises for the presence of asbestos. If you do not have an up to date, qualifying asbestos survey you could be liable for prosecution.
8. Any asbestos containing materials that deteriorate or becomes damaged should be repaired, removed or isolated until proper action can be taken.
9. Removal of  asbestos containing material must be carried out by a licenced and qualified professional.
10. If not managed properly, asbestos can put employees and other people’s lives at risk.

If you are planning renovations, demolition or simply suspect the presence of asbestos containing material in your home or work place, you should contact Abyss Demolition for an obligation free consultation today.