What is Asbestos? Understanding the Risks and Safety Concerns

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral once widely used in construction and manufacturing due to its durability, fire resistance, and insulation properties. However, over the years, it has become a significant health risk, with exposure to asbestos fibers linked to serious diseases, including lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. In this page, we explain what asbestos is, the risks it poses, and why managing asbestos in buildings is critical for safety.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos refers to a group of six silicate minerals known for their long, thin fibers. These fibers are durable, resistant to heat, and non-reactive, making them ideal for use in building materials. Asbestos was once used in a wide range of products, including insulation, roofing materials, flooring, cement, and even textiles.

Types of Asbestos

There are six primary types of asbestos minerals:

1.     Chrysotile (White Asbestos) - The most commonly used type, found in insulation, pipes, and roofing materials.

2.     Amosite (Brown Asbestos) - Commonly used in cement sheets, pipes, and thermal insulation.

3.     Crocidolite (Blue Asbestos) - Found in high-temperature insulation materials.

4.     Anthophyllite - Used in limited applications, such as insulation and cement products.

5.     Tremolite - Sometimes found as a contaminant in other asbestos types.

6.     Actinolite - Found in certain insulation materials and other building products.

Why is Asbestos Dangerous?

When materials containing asbestos are disturbed or damaged, microscopic asbestos fibers can be released into the air. These fibers, when inhaled, can cause serious health issues. Prolonged exposure can lead to respiratory diseases, including:

·       Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease caused by scarring of lung tissue due to asbestos fibers.

·       Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen.

·       Lung Cancer: Exposure to asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer, particularly in people who smoke.

·       Pleural Disease: A condition involving scarring of the lungs’ lining, which can lead to difficulty breathing.

It’s important to note that these diseases may take decades to develop, which is why asbestos exposure is often underestimated.

Is Asbestos Still Used?

While the use of asbestos has been banned or heavily regulated in many countries, including Australia, some older buildings still contain asbestos materials. This is especially true in properties constructed before the 1990s. If you're working in or living in a building built before the 1990s, it's crucial to have an asbestos survey and inspection performed by a licensed asbestos assessor.

How to Identify Asbestos

Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are not always easy to identify with the naked eye. Common building materials that may contain asbestos include:

·       Insulation (on pipes, boilers, and ducts)

·       Flooring (vinyl tiles and backing)

·       Roofing (cement roofing sheets)

·       Ceiling tiles and plaster

·       Textured paints and coatings

If you suspect that a material contains asbestos, avoid disturbing it and contact a confluence environmental to test the suspected asbestos. Testing for asbestos by a NATA accredited laboratory is the only way to definitively know if it contains asbestos.

Managing Asbestos Safely

If you discover or suspect asbestos in a building, it is critical to manage it safely. Asbestos should only be handled by licensed professionals trained in proper removal and disposal techniques. At Confluence Environmental, we specialise in providing comprehensive asbestos management solutions, including:

·       Asbestos Surveys and Inspections: To identify and assess the presence of asbestos in your building.

·       Asbestos Registers: Detailed documentation for property owners and managers to keep track of asbestos-containing materials.

·       Asbestos Removal and Disposal: Safe removal and compliant disposal of asbestos materials.

·       Ongoing Management Plans: Long-term strategies to monitor and manage asbestos risks on your property.

Why Choose Confluence Environmental?

At Confluence Environmental, we understand the serious health risks associated with asbestos. Our expert team provides reliable, safe, and compliant asbestos management solutions to ensure your building meets all legal and safety requirements. Protect your property and the health of its occupants by partnering with us for your asbestos management needs.