Most Australians believe that asbestos-related diseases are a thing of the past. However, they could not be more wrong with home renovations expected to account for the next wave of asbestos-related diseases.
Australia was reportedly the highest per capita user of asbestos during the 1960s and 70s, with asbestos being present in a broad range of building products, it could be anywhere! In linoleum and vinyl tiles, under floor coverings, behind wall tiles, in cement products, internal and external walls, ceilings and ceiling spaces, eaves, garages, roofs, associated with hot water pipes, fences, garages, outdoor toilets, electrical units, backyard and farm structures.
Today, asbestos poses just as much a risk to the health of Australians as ever before especially during home renovations. Asbestos related diseases are predicted to rise in coming years because people either ignore the warnings or are unaware of the risks or how to manage asbestos safely. The National Asbestos Awareness Campaign states “homeowners, renovators, and tradies are playing a risky game of ‘Renovation Roulette’ and putting their lives and the lives of others, including their kids, at risk”.
It is possible that any home constructed prior to the national asbestos ban coming into place on 31 December 2003 may contain asbestos materials. As such Australian homes and workplaces have an asbestos legacy issue that needs to be managed safely.
How can we help?
Many home buyer guides take you through the mechanics of how to select and purchase a home or investment property, but rarely do they explain or even mention the potential risks of purchasing a property with unknown or unquantified asbestos, lead or mould issues. For small investments, BB Risk Solutions can work with you during the initial stages of property selection, to ensure you are fully informed of possible risks associated with hazards such as asbestos, lead or mould.
BB Risk Solutions Consultants are trained and competent in the inspection and safe management of asbestos and other hazardous materials. Our team can assist home buyers, renovators, landlords and body corporates with identification, quantification and tailor-made safe management solutions based on individuals budget and timeline constraints, and potential home renovations.
We will work with you to ensure you are fully informed of the potential risks associated with disturbance of materials within your property and provide appropriate on-going management options.
For more information or to arrange an inspection by one of our trained and competent surveyors, please call 03 852 814 05 or visit our website www.bbrisksolutions.com.au