Deadly Easter weekend warning to homeowners

Homeowners are being warned about an invisible threat that exists in around one in three Aussie homes and poses ‘a very real risk’ to renovators and would-be DIY-ers.

Renovators and would-be DIY-ers are being warned about the potential risks of carcinogenic materials when undertaking changes to the home over the Easter long weekend..

Renovators and would-be DIY-ers are being warned about the potential risks of carcinogenic materials when undertaking changes to the home over the Easter long weekend.

A new Federal Government campaign launched this week is warning those looking to tackle renovations about the dangers of accidentally exposing themselves to asbestos.

There are a growing number of Australians being diagnosed with life-threatening asbestos-related diseases after exposure, with an estimated one in three houses built before 1990 likely to contain the deadly materival in their rooves.

Asbestos Awareness ambassador Cherie Barber with a photo of her grandfather George Barber, who died from asbestos poisoning. Picture: Tim Hunter

Experts have warned that homeowners, renovators, and renters could be exposed to the fibre through small changes like installing a picture hook on a wall.

Being aware of the presence of asbestos in a home can be difficult.

In NSW, for example, the only legal requirement to disclose its presence is in the case of loose asbestos, resulting in the contract of sale only warning a buyer if the insulation was built prior to 1985.
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Breathing in asbestos dust and fibre can be deadly.

Slater and Gordon’s head of dust and diseases Joanne Wade said there are a growing number of cases related to home constructions and DIY projects.

“While people love to take advantage of a long weekend to finish home projects, it is important to know that when disturbed, asbestos poses a very real risk,” she said.

“Loose fibres that are invisible to the naked eye can contaminate your hair, clothing and even surrounding furniture. Breathing in asbestos dust and fibre can be deadly.”

Asbestos was used in 3000 products before being banned in 2003. Picture: Asbestos Awareness

While the deadly fibre was banned from use in Australia in 2003, there are still a number of asbestos products present in homes.

These include tile glue, grout, paint, fencing, floor and wall lining – mostly located in wet areas such as bathrooms.

It can only be identified via testing a sample under an electron microscope.

“So many homeowners were unaware of the danger of breathing in asbestos dust and fibre, when their homes were built,” Ms Wade said.

“This fibro material was considered the most affordable yet durable option for Aussies on a budget.

“Before you begin any home renovation project, it is important to check that you are not ripping up deadly fibro that contains asbestos.

“If asbestos is found in your home, contact a licensed asbestos removalist immediately.

“Do not delay in seeking legal advice if you have been diagnosed with an asbestos related disease.”

Originally published as Deadly Easter weekend warning to homeowners