Cleaning up after the floods? Exposed to asbestos?
The volunteer support of thousands of Australians who are
helping friends, neighbours and strangers clean houses and
businesses after the floods has been a wonderful show of strength
and community pride. However, anyone who is cleaning up is reminded
that there are occupational health and safety risks, and in some
situations, people may be exposed to asbestos.
What is asbestos?
Asbestos is a strong and heat resistant material that was
commonly used in Australian buildings built from
the 1950s through to 1985. It was used in more
than 3000 products.
Flood victims and volunteers may be exposed to asbestos fibres
and asbestos dust when demolishing and removing asbestos products
including cement sheeting for walls and roofing; acoustic ceilings;
lagging on pipes for insulation; fireproofing; vinyl flooring and
tiles; lining behind stoves, heaters and radiators; and spackle in
plaster and paints.
How can I protect myself from asbestos
exposure?
Wear an approved respirator mask and
protective clothing while you are cleaning up after the
floods, even if you don't think there are any asbestos products.
Note that if you handle asbestos products your clothes may be
contaminated with asbestos dust, so you should wear your mask when
handling them prior to being washed.
Asbestos products should be disposed of professionally. Your
local council should be able to advise you if there is an asbestos
material collection after the floods, or the name of a professional
asbestos removalist. Don't throw asbestos products out with regular
household hard waste because this will potentially put other people
at risk of asbestos exposure and will contaminate all of the
waste.
How do I know if I am handling asbestos
products?
It's not always easy to tell if the products you are handling
contain asbestos. The best rule of thumb is to ask or check if you
are unsure prior to handling an item. If you are still unsure,
notify your local council and then move on and work in another area
with products you know are safe. Note that there is no safe
level of exposure to asbestos fibres, so
it is better to be on the safe side.
What should I do if I've been exposed?
Don't panic. Most people who have been exposed to the dangerous
fibres don't go on to contract a related disease. Asbestos-related
diseases often take between 10 and 30 years to develop. If you are
concerned, you should see your doctor.
People involved in the flood clean up can also register their
asbestos exposure for free on the
National Asbestos Register. This quick and easy online register
lists the details of your exposure. Even though you are currently
healthy, your details are secure on the register in case you later
go on to be diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease. If this
happens, the register will help us to assist you in a future claim
for compensation. Registration is at no cost and is obligation
free.
Where do I go for more information?
For more information, join the
National Asbestos Register. If you would like a copy of our
asbestos brochure, or you have another asbestos query, please email
us at asbestos@mauriceblackburn.com.au
or call us on freecall 1800 810 856.
Print the asbestos exposure fact
sheet.