Sarah Oliver
With Melton and Moorabool continuing its renovation boom, specialists are reminding renovators of the dangers of asbestos when doing DIY projects or finding a contractor.
Gordon Legal Partner, Victoria Keays, who is an accredited specialist in personal injury law with a particular interest in asbestos litigation, said it’s critical that people take steps to understand whether there is asbestos in their home.
“Inhaling even a small amount of asbestos dust can cause mesothelioma, which is an aggressive terminal cancer. I have seen cases of mesothelioma that have been caused from people being around loved ones performing modest home renovations, that might only take a day or two,” she said.
“Although rare, even these kinds of exposures can be fatal in years to come. There is no safe level of exposure to asbestos dust.”
It is likely asbestos is present in houses built before the 1990s, with asbestos commonly used as cement sheeting in eaves or internal wall and floor lining in wet areas, for roofing, in gas flues, and as a form of insulation.
“I would strongly recommend that anyone who is considering a renovation in an older home engage a licenced asbestos assessor and removalist to inspect the property for the presence of asbestos, and follow the advice of professionals about removal if required,” Ms Keays said.
“Asbestos removal is highly regulated, and the rules depend on how much and what type of asbestos is being removed. I recommend engaging a licensed asbestos removalist to ensure it is done properly. It’s also important to let neighbours know if and when you are planning to remove asbestos, so they can stay away from any potential areas of concern.
“People sometimes cut corners when it comes to asbestos removal for a range of factors, including cost and ignorance of the dangers. I would simply say, “don’t.” The consequences of developing an asbestos-related disease later in life for the sake of a renovation are just not worth it. I have seen the devastation that a diagnosis of asbestos-related disease causes families.
“It’s heart-breaking and it is entirely avoidable.”
