Asbestos Facts and Fiction
Misconceptions about asbestos can lead to unsafe handling and misinformed decisions about asbestos management. This guidance note addresses common myths and provides facts to correct them.
Asbestos was used in construction, manufacturing, and mining throughout the 20th century because of its durability, heat resistance, and insulating properties. The use, import, and sale of asbestos were banned in Australia in 2003 after evidence established clear links to respiratory diseases and cancers.
Myth 1: Asbestos is no longer a problem since it was banned in 2003
Fact: Asbestos remains present in buildings constructed before the ban.
The 2003 ban stopped new installations of asbestos containing materials. It did not remove existing asbestos from buildings and infrastructure. Asbestos containing materials are present in many homes, buildings, and infrastructure constructed before the ban. Asbestos becomes a health risk when materials are disturbed or damaged, releasing fibres into the air.
Myth 2: You can identify asbestos by looking at it
Fact: Asbestos cannot be identified by sight alone.
Asbestos fibres are microscopic and cannot be seen with the naked eye. Asbestos containing materials can look identical to non-asbestos materials. Laboratory testing by an accredited facility is necessary to determine whether a material contains asbestos.
Myth 3: Asbestos is only dangerous if disturbed
Fact: Undisturbed asbestos can deteriorate and release fibres.
Asbestos is most dangerous when disturbed because this releases fibres into the air. However, undisturbed asbestos containing materials can deteriorate over time due to weathering, aging, or water damage, potentially releasing fibres.
Myth 4: Asbestos was only used in commercial or industrial buildings
Fact: Asbestos was widely used in residential buildings.
Asbestos was used in Australian homes, particularly in those built between the 1940s and late 1980s. It was commonly found in fibre cement sheeting, roofing, flooring, eaves, and pipes. Older properties should be inspected by licensed asbestos assessors before renovation work begins.
Myth 5: Short term exposure to asbestos is not harmful
Fact: Brief exposure to asbestos can cause disease.
Asbestos related diseases are caused by inhaling asbestos fibres, which become lodged in the lungs and cause damage. The risk of disease increases with exposure level and duration, but brief exposure to asbestos can result in health consequences. There is no safe level of asbestos exposure.
Myth 6: If you find asbestos, remove it immediately
Fact: Asbestos removal must be handled by licensed professionals.
Improperly removing or disturbing asbestos increases the risk of exposure. In some cases it is safer to leave asbestos containing materials in place if they are in good condition and unlikely to be disturbed. If removal is necessary, it must be done by licensed asbestos removalists with proper equipment and training.
Do you need asbestos assessment or management advice?
Safety Systems provides asbestos identification, assessment, and management services in Victoria and beyond. We have been operating since 2001 and hold NATA laboratory accreditation for asbestos analysis.