Although asbestos is used in multiple products, it is a dangerous substance, from manufactured goods to building materials. It can disintegrate into thin fibres.
These microscopically thin fibres can remain in the air for days after disintegrating. Humans can breathe in these fibres when the latter is suspended in the air for days.
Prolonged asbestos exposure can cause mesothelioma or lung cancer. Similarly, while removing asbestos, many factors need to be considered to reduce exposure.
Asbestos removal in Brisbane carries a few rules that you must know. For instance, it is not permitted to dispose of asbestos in household waste bins.
Therefore, you must reach out to the best-licensed professionals in Brisbane for removing and disposing asbestos.
Continue reading to know more about this disease in the Australian continent.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally found soft and flexible fibrous silicate. Owing to its excellent fire resistance, it is commonly used in building materials. Asbestos also happens to be a brilliant electrical insulator.
This mineral is commonly used in fibro sheeting to line ceilings and walls. Moreover, it is also used in drainage pipes, fencing panels, gutters, and roof shingles.
Since asbestos is used so widely, especially in modern buildings in Brisbane, the risk of exposure is always high. Usually, there is nothing to panic about unless the fibres are disturbed.
If you undertake renovation or other industrial projects, arrange for the proper removal of asbestos. Taking the help of licensed professionals will ensure there is no exposure.
Health Risks from Asbestos Removal
The first step of renovating your house should be safely removing and disposing of asbestos in any form. If the asbestos fibres get suspended in the air, it makes you susceptible to breathing in it. Missing this step could expose you to the risks of asbestos exposure.
Exposure risks can increase multi-fold at construction sites. Irresponsible handling increases the risk for workers and puts the visiting general public at risk.
Asbestos fibres may get permanently embedded in people’s bodies if inhaled. Prolonged exposure to asbestos fibres can cause potential genetic damage over time.
Asbestos in Australia
Right from the 19th century, asbestos was widely used in construction materials in Brisbane. From walls, roof shingles, plasterboard roofs, and more, it was the most commonly used material for these. Asbestos was found a use for insulation, vinyl flooring, chimneys, switchboard, and even fencing.
However, in 2003, Australia banned the use of asbestos for building and construction purposes. Thus, if your house construction dates back to before 2003, you must consider getting it inspected for asbestos. A timely inspection can save you from asbestos exposure.
Furthermore, as per the Brisbane City Council, asbestos cannot be disposed of at their resource recovery centers or in household waste bins.
Asbestos Removal Process
You should take the assistance of licensed professionals to remove asbestos. These professionals safely remove asbestos without disturbing it. Disturbance could cause significant risks as the fibres may become airborne.
The professionals dispose of the asbestos, following which they decontaminate the property. Decontaminating can significantly reduce potential health risks.
However, if you take assistance from unlicensed removers, it becomes your duty to follow strict safety measures. Besides, implement the safety protocol before and after the process.
The asbestos removers you hire must follow the Model Code of Practice and other laws surrounding the process.
Wrapping Up
Identifying materials in the house or building that contain asbestos must be done accurately. Companies offering Asbestos removal in Brisbane have the right skill and training besides years of experience.
Their specialisation in identification and removal can save you from major health risks. Also bound by regulatory laws set by the Brisbane City Council, you can be assured those professionals will provide you with the service you deserve.
