Home renovators asked to be asbestos ready

Kempsey Shire Council

Neon light style house with question marks to indicate possible asbestos

This week is National Asbestos Week and a good reminder for local homeowners planning renovations, that asbestos is found in 1 in 3 homes in Australia.

If asbestos containing material is in good condition it poses little health risk. However, when products containing asbestos are disturbed by cutting, drilling, water blasting or similar activities, small fibres may be released into the air. These fibres are harmful if inhaled and may lead to asbestos related diseases.

Where can I dispose asbestos?

Asbestos is a danger to everyone and needs to be disposed of carefully, following strict guidelines. It can be accepted at the Kempsey Waste Management Centre

  • wetted down
  • clearly labelled Danger Asbestos Hazard
  • double wrapped in builders' plastic – it's advisable to fold cardboard around any sharp corners when packing to prevent tears in the plastic

An application is required and must be completed before disposing of asbestos. The new form to apply to dispose of asbestos can be found here.

Where can I get help to identify and remove asbestos?

An estimated 4000 Australians die each year from asbestos related disease due to past exposure. Reduce the risk of asbestos related disease and seek help from accredited professionals to identify and remove asbestos.

/Public Release. This material from the originating organization/author(s) might be of the point-in-time nature, and edited for clarity, style and length. Mirage.News does not take institutional positions or sides, and all views, positions, and conclusions expressed herein are solely those of the author(s).View in full here.