Given the health risks and continued existence of asbestos in many older residential and commercial properties, questions surrounding the material are plentiful.

In today’s blog, we’re looking at four very common questions that are asked about asbestos and provide you with the basics of what you need to know. Please keep in mind that we’re providing general advice and that you should always do further research in the event you encounter asbestos yourself.

1. I’ve found asbestos in my roof and/or other parts of the home. Am I in danger?

It’s important when dealing with asbestos to know that just because there is asbestos in your home, it doesn’t necessarily pose an immediate danger. Provided the asbestos sheets are in a solid and sound condition, the risk is typically minimal - it’s only once the asbestos fibres start breaking and become airborne that there is cause for concern. That said, even if in good condition, we highly recommend you look into having the material replaced - as with anything else, asbestos will eventually deteriorate and could pose health issues down the line.

2. What health risks does asbestos pose?

If not properly contained, the inhalation of asbestos fibres can attribute to numerous health problems. How severe these are typically depend on how long you’ve been exposed to such fibres, though this shouldn’t be considered a definitive fact. Health risks could include:

• Asbestosis - scarring of lung tissue that causes long-term breathing difficulties

• Lung cancer - the chance of getting lung cancer from asbestos fibres is greatly increased if you’re a smoker

• Mesothelioma - an incurable cancer that most often occurs in the lining of the lung. The average time between exposure and developing mesothelioma is 45 years

Many symptoms of asbestos dust-related diseases usually do not manifest themselves until 20 to 30 years after the first exposure to asbestos.

3. Can I remove asbestos myself?

There are certain amounts of bonded asbestos that can be removed of your own accord (anything more than 10 square metres should not be carried out without someone with a Class B, Bonded Asbestos Removal licence), however we strongly advise you reconsider handling any asbestos removal yourself. Improper methods can put your health at risk and you could face severe fines/penalties for improper handling. Depending on the seriousness of your breach, fines can reach tens of thousands of dollars.

4. Can asbestos be buried?

No. This is an illegal act and comes with severe penalties. Whether you’re disposing of asbestos yourself or having a professional handle it, it must taken to a legal asbestos disposal facility. You can find your nearest one via the ASEA database. Alternatively, you can contact your local council and they will provide with details of the the nearest asbestos disposal facility.

If you’ve discovered asbestos in your roof, give Roo Roofing a call on 1300 734 148. We are specialists in asbestos removal, disposal, and restoration in Brisbane and its surrounds.