Asbestos

Asbestos

Summary

Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals that were widely used in building and industrial products because of their strength, durability and resistance to heat.

Asbestos-containing materials remain common in older Australian buildings, infrastructure and soils affected by historical demolition or fill. The main health risk occurs when asbestos fibres become airborne and are inhaled.

Definition

Asbestos-containing material (ACM) may be classified as friable or non-friable.

Non-friable asbestos is bonded within another material, such as asbestos cement sheeting. Friable asbestos can be crumbled or reduced to powder by hand pressure when dry and has a greater potential to release airborne fibres.

Why Asbestos Matters

Inhalation of asbestos fibres is associated with serious diseases including:

• mesothelioma;

• lung cancer; and

• asbestosis.

Risk depends on the type, condition and disturbance of the material.

Where Asbestos May Be Found

Asbestos may occur in:

• wall and ceiling linings;

• roofing and cladding;

• flooring;

• pipes and insulation;

• fire-resistant materials;

• sheds and outbuildings; and

• soil or fill containing historical building waste.

When Asbestos Is Assessed

Asbestos assessment may be required before demolition or refurbishment, where suspect materials are identified, where asbestos may occur in soil, or where workplace asbestos registers, air monitoring or clearance inspections are required.

Related Terms

• Asbestos-Containing Material

• Friable Asbestos

• Non-Friable Asbestos

• Asbestos Register

• Asbestos Management Plan

• Asbestos in Soil

• Asbestos Air Monitoring

• Asbestos Clearance Inspection