Archicentre

The vast number of demolitions and renovations being carried out in suburbs across Australia as older homes are knocked down or renovated, has prompted an asbestos warning by Archicentre, the building advisory service of the Australian Institute of Architects.

This building on a property is clad in asbestos cement sheeting and should be removed by a specialist licensed contractor.

Archicentre State Manager South Australia, Edward Lukac said, "The real risk of exposure to asbestos fibres occurs with the demolition of walls or roofs, during the renovation of a property, and the breaking, drilling or cutting of products containing asbestos." "Our real concern is that with the increase in demolitions, DIY renovations and the Renovation Reality TV programs, people may not recognise the extreme health risks involved for home owners and their families of the diseases which can be caused by asbestos fibres."

"These diseases can occur many years after the exposure to asbestos has ceased, but the likelihood of a person contracting an asbestos-related disease increases as the intensity and duration of the exposure increases," Mr. Lukac said.

"Large numbers of homes throughout Australia have been constructed using asbestos-cement products as internal wall and ceiling linings, external wall claddings, floor-coverings and roofing."

"Asbestos was used in flat sheet fibre cement building products until 1982 and in corrugated fibro-cement roofing material until 1986."

Each year Archicentre conducts over 20,000 pre-purchase home inspections and renovation design concepts and is aware of the wide spread presence of asbestos in residential properties.

Archicentre's property inspections have revealed the presence of asbestos cement sheeting in the eaves of many homes and behind wall and ceiling tiles, as well as wall linings and roofing. Older garden sheds were often clad entirely with asbestos cement sheeting.
Mr. Lukac said that provided asbestos-cement products used in the construction of homes are not disturbed the health of the occupants of the home is not at risk. If the asbestos sheeting is in good condition, it can be painted so as to limit the breakdown of the surface and the release of fibres. Care should be taken and sanding during preparation should be avoided.

Mr. Lukac also warned home owners not to walk on corrugated asbestos cement roofs. These are extremely brittle with age and are likely to shatter under foot, releasing asbestos fibres and possibly resulting in the home owner falling right through the roof.