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Asbestos

Asbestos was commonly used in building materials from the 1940s until the mid-1990s.

Exposure to asbestos has since been linked to increased risk of developing some cancers, so a national ban on the manufacture, importation and installation of products containing asbestos was introduced from 1 January 2004.

The inhalation of asbestos fibres may result in serious diseases such as asbestosis, mesothelioma or lung cancer. As the level of exposure that may cause health problems is unknown, any exposure to asbestos should be avoided.

It is estimated that at least one in every three buildings constructed between the 1940’s and 1990’s contain asbestos products. Asbestos may be found either firmly or loosely bound in a number of products once used in the Australian building industry, including:

  • roofing and shingles
  • under eaves
  • exterior wall cladding
  • interior walls and wet areas
  • fencing
  • thermal boards around fireplaces and in switch boards
  • backing material on floor tiles and vinyl flooring
  • gaskets and seals in wood stoves
  • textured paint
  • garages and workshops
  • the brakes, clutches and gaskets of cars
  • insulation used on hot water pipes, hot water cylinders, domestic heaters and stoves

It is very difficult to identify asbestos by looking at it. If you are uncertain about what a substance is, you should treat it as though it contains asbestos. The only way to be certain is to have a sample analysed by a laboratory. A licensed asbestos removalist could also help identify materials containing asbestos. Click here for some examples of asbestos containing material.

If you are concerned about any asbestos in your home you should contact a licensed asbestos removalist who can assist you. A list of licensed asbestos removalists can be found on the Workplace Standards Tasmania website or by contacting the Workplace Standards Helpline on 1300 366 322.

It is recommended that you contact a licensed asbestos removalist if you are considering having asbestos removed from your home. Asbestos is dangerous and while it is not illegal for you to remove asbestos from a property that you own, you are strongly advised not to do so unless you have undertaken training and are competent in safe asbestos removal practices.

You must consider your health and safety if you are considering asbestos removal. You must also consider the health and safety of other people in the area, including children, and people on neighbouring properties. These people may be exposed to asbestos fibres released during removal works.

Asbestos is classified as a hazardous material, so there are rules about how it can be transported and where it can be disposed of.  Asbestos cannot be disposed at Council’s Transfer Stations, or via the wheelie bin collection. Please see below for information on Landfill disposal.

Asbestos waste should be prepared for disposal in accordance with the Safe Work Australia Code of Practice for the Safe Removal of Asbestos.

The Port Latta Landfill accepts asbestos waste subject to application for entry to the site and the following conditions: 

The Port Latta Landfill site is operated by Circular Head Council. Visit their website for information relating to contacts, fees and opening hours.

 

Removalists: http://www.justice.tas.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0011/82568/licensed_removal.pdf

Asbestos information including photos http://www.worksafe.tas.gov.au/safety/safety_subjects/subject/asbestos

The Commonwealth Government has issued a new guide on Asbestos for home owners, which can be found at the following link: Asbestos: A guide for householders and the general public