Asbestos Awareness month was created to educate Australians about the dangers of asbestos in and around homes and to raise much needed funds for the Asbestos Disease Research Institute and Support Groups via www.bluelamington.com

But it’s not just home owners, flippers and renovators that need to be aware of the dangers of asbestos.

Tradies and handymen who work on domestic properties are likely to come across asbestos every day of their working life. And with one in every three Australian homes containing asbestos, it is essential that the full risks are understood and managed safely.

Take the warnings seriously and read on to learn where asbestos might be located on the job and how to minimize risks to your health and the health of colleagues, families and bystanders.

What are the health risks associated with asbestos?

If asbestos containing materials are left alone, then generally they don’t pose a health risk.

However once disturbed and broken, fibres are released into the air and can be inhaled.

Inhaling asbestos fibres can lead to asbestos related diseases such as mesothelioma, asbestsosis and even lung cancer. Mesothelioma can develop between 20 and 50 years after inhaling asbestsos fibres.

Why do tradies need to know about asbestos?

Tradies need to know the key steps in managing asbestos safely should they come across it in the workplace and specifically in homes and buildings including garages, carports, outside toilets and properties if constructed or refurbished before 1987.

A great safety check for tradies is the following 20 point safety check put together by asbestosaweareness.com.au.

How common is asbestos in Australian homes?

One third of Australian homes contain asbestos and asbestos can literally be found anywhere!

Under carpets, behind wall and floor tiles, in cement floors, internal and external walls, ceilings, even dog kennels! Not knowing what asbestos looks like or where to specifically find it means that tradies and handymen need to work slowly and carefully, avoiding unnecessary risk.

Which tradies are most likely to come into contact with asbestos on the job?

Asbestos Awareness has put together a Trade Specific Checklist for tradies such as bricklayers, tilers, builders, electricians and fencers who may come in contact with asbestos containing materials as part of their trade.

If you’ve ever come across asbestos in a work situation then it can’t help to have a read!

And if you’re looking for a professional opinion from the experts themselves, don’t hesitate to call the team at Jim’s Asbestos Removal on 131 546.