Asbestos Sydney

Asbestos in Sydney Homes

Asbestos, being a known carcinogen is commonly caused for concern with Sydney homeowners, particularly given the media attention that it receives. While many houses in Sydney contain asbestos, if it is in good condition and not likely to be disturbed the risk is negligible. In Sydney asbestos is commonly identified in:

Asbestos cement fibro sheeting to eaves, gables, wall and ceiling lining (especially in garages, bathrooms, laundries
Corrugated roofs (especially old garages)
Electrical fuse boxes
Under sinks (sounds dampeners pads and spray coatings)
Window putty
Vinyl sheet.

These asbestos products were used in Sydney houses until about 1990. Asbestos was used in friction materials in Sydney until 2003 which includes brakes and gaskets).

Many Sydney councils require asbestos surveys to determine the location and extent of asbestos prior to renovation or demolition. A pre-purchase asbestos survey before buying a house in Sydney can assist to determine the likelihood of asbestos if there are plans for renovations.

Health Risks from Sydney Asbestos Houses

The health effects due to asbestos in Sydney houses are negligible unless the asbestos is disturbed such that respirable asbestos fibres may liberate into the air. We recommend completing an asbestos removal course or engaging a licensed asbestos contractor to remove asbestos identified by a accredited asbestos surveyor. Please contact us for a list of Sydney asbestos removalists that we work with closely.

Asbestos in Commercial Buildings and Workplaces in Sydney

Legislation requires that all commercial buildings that are a place of work must identify, assess and control risks associated with asbestos. This requires an asbestos register which identifies the location and extent of asbestos with the premises. All Sydney workplaces are required to provide information relating to asbestos health risks that may arise from your work.