National Asbestos Awareness Month Campaign
National Asbestos Awareness Month is the initiative of the Asbestos Education Committee working in partnership with the Asbestos Diseases Research Institute and is supported by the Asbestos Diseases Research Foundation of Australia, the Federal Asbestos Safety &Education Agency and various levels of government, nationally. The campaign was developed and is managed by Insight Communications.
If left undisturbed asbestos generally does not pose a health risk. However, when disturbed during renovations and home maintenance, asbestos fibres can be released into the air and when inhaled, can cause life-threatening diseases including lung cancer, pleural diseases asbestosis and mesothelioma. With every home built or renovated before 1987 likely to contain asbestos, the campaign’s primary objective is to educate Australian’s about the danger of asbestos in and around homes and how to manage it safely.
Asbestos Awareness Month 2015 educated more Australians than ever before, extending the focus from home owner’s and renovators to incorporate handymen and tradespeople educating the about where asbestos might be found in homes and how to manage it safely. In 2016 the campaign is continuing to engage stakeholders and communities increasing awareness Australia-wide.
1 in every 3 Australian homes will contain asbestos in some form or another including brick, weatherboard, fibro, clad and timber homes - even apartments. Before commencing any work around the home visit
www.asbestosawareness.com.au for examples of products that might contain asbestos and learn where they might be located in your home and how to manage asbestos safely.
Asbestos could be anywhere! In walls, floor and wall tiles, bathrooms, kitchens, garages, carports, home extensions and even the dog kennel! Don't play renovation roulette! It's not worth the risk!
Here are some fantastic resources:
