November is National Asbestos Awareness Month and Gunnedah Shire Council is urging homeowners, renovators and tradies to take asbestos warnings seriously when renovating or maintaining homes and learn how to manage it safely.

“Australia was among the largest consumers of asbestos-containing materials in the world, with asbestos used in the manufacture of a broad range of building and decorator products that can still be found in one in three brick, weatherboard, fibro and clad Australian homes,” Gunnedah Shire Council’s Waste Management Superintendent Sheridan Cameron said.

“It can be in any home built or renovated before 1987; lurking under floor coverings, including carpets, linoleum and vinyl tiles, behind wall and floor tiles, in cement floors, internal and external walls, ceilings and ceiling space (insulation), eaves, garages, roofs, around hot water pipes, fences, home extensions, garages, outdoor toilets, backyard and farm structures, chook sheds and even dog kennels.

“Asbestos was used everywhere. So, if you’re a homeowner, renovator or tradie, and you don’t know the risks, the products to look for or how to manage asbestos safely, you could be risking your life and the lives of others if you disturb asbestos-containing materials and release fibres into that air that can be inhaled.”

Well-maintained and undisturbed asbestos is unlikely to pose a health risk, however, if disturbed they can cause disease.

“When it comes to asbestos, don’t cut it, don’t drill it, don’t drop it, dismantle it or demolish it, and definitely don’t dump it.”

To find out how to safely dispose of asbestos locally, contact Gunnedah Waste Management Facility on (02) 6742 3943.

To learn more about managing asbestos handling and removal safely please visit www.asbestosawareness.com.au 

ENDS

Media Contact: Ashley Gardner 6740 2100.