At Coastal Asbestos, we’re committed to raising awareness about safe asbestos handling. Today, we delve into the often misunderstood ’10 Square Metre Rule’ in asbestos removal and the significant risks involved in amateur asbestos removal.

Understanding the 10 Square Metre Rule

In many Australian states and territories, legislation permits the removal of up to 10 square metres of asbestos without a licence. However, it’s crucial to understand the full scope of this rule. The law stipulates that such removal must occur under controlled conditions. This part of the legislation is often overlooked, leading to dangerous practices.

The Dangers of DIY Asbestos Removal

Amateur attempts at asbestos removal can lead to severe consequences. We’ve encountered instances where unlicensed handymen and contractors have inadvertently caused extensive contamination, resulting in losses amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars. These mistakes often stem from a lack of understanding about the safe handling of asbestos and inadequate insurance coverage.

Professional Equipment is Essential

Asbestos removal requires specific equipment, like a HEPA vacuum cleaner and a properly fitted asbestos-approved mask. The cost and maintenance of such equipment are beyond the scope of a regular tradesman. A HEPA vacuum cleaner, essential for safe asbestos removal, can cost upwards of $2,000, with annual testing and maintenance requirements. Additionally, face masks must be correctly fitted, a detail often overlooked by those not specialised in asbestos removal.

The Risks of Non-Professional Removal

Allowing a non-professional to remove, drill, or even break a piece of asbestos is highly risky. Without the proper equipment and knowledge, they are not only endangering themselves but also you and your family. Asbestos removal should only be done by trained, equipped, licensed, and insured professionals.

Conclusion

The ’10 Square Metre Rule’ might seem like a loophole for easy asbestos removal, but it’s a dangerous misconception. The risks associated with improper handling of asbestos are too significant to ignore. Just as electricians are the only ones qualified to handle electricity, asbestos removal should be left to the experts.

Don’t risk your safety by attempting DIY asbestos removal. Contact Coastal Asbestos for professional, safe, and licensed asbestos removal services. Our team is passionate about keeping you safe and has the necessary expertise and equipment to handle asbestos correctly. Visit our website or call us for a consultation. Choose safety and professionalism with Coastal Asbestos.

At Coastal Asbestos, we’ve seen firsthand the severe consequences of mishandling asbestos during home renovations. A past incident we encountered highlights the dangers of DIY asbestos removal and serves as a crucial learning opportunity for homeowners. Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways from this unfortunate event.

The Disaster Unfolds

The incident began with a family excitedly preparing their home for the arrival of their newborn baby. In the midst of renovations, the father unknowingly began working with asbestos sheeting, which he unfortunately disturbed while running wires into the room. The seriousness of the situation became quickly apparent as the family started experiencing health symptoms – the mother with a sore throat and the newborn with a cough. Then, the fear of asbestos contamination became a reality, prompting an urgent call to our team at Coastal Asbestos.

Upon our arrival, the scene was alarming. The emotional distress of the family was evident, especially the mother, who was visibly upset and concerned for her baby’s health. A visual inspection of the house raised immediate concerns, confirming our suspicions about asbestos. We advised the family to vacate the house immediately for their safety, emphasising the seriousness of asbestos exposure. This marked the beginning of a challenging and costly journey for the family as they faced the reality of asbestos contamination in their home.

Key Takeaways from the Incident

1. Asbestos is Not Always Obvious

Asbestos contamination isn’t always immediately noticeable. In this case, the family didn’t realise the danger until health symptoms appeared, highlighting the importance of prior knowledge and inspection.

2. The High Cost of Mistakes

The financial burden of asbestos contamination can be immense. This family faced the heartbreaking task of discarding personal belongings, including beds, carpets, and clothes, and bore the entire cost of decontamination and restoration.

3. Long-Term Health Monitoring

The family now requires lifelong health monitoring, a stark reminder of the lasting impact of asbestos exposure. This ongoing process underscores the seriousness of asbestos-related health risks.

4. Professional Assessment is Crucial

The initial assessment by our team and subsequent testing by an occupational hygienist were critical in identifying and addressing the contamination. This emphasises the importance of involving professionals from the outset.

5. Awareness and Education Matter

Understanding where asbestos might be in your home and the risks associated with it is essential. Awareness and education can prevent such disasters.

Conclusion

This story is a sobering example of the dangers associated with DIY asbestos removal. At Coastal Asbestos, we urge homeowners to prioritise safety over cost-saving DIY methods. Before starting any renovation, especially in older homes, get a professional assessment.

If you’re planning a renovation or suspect asbestos in your home, don’t take the risk – contact Coastal Asbestos for a professional assessment and removal. Our expertise ensures the safety of your home and family. Visit our website or YouTube channel for more information and guidance on asbestos safety. Remember, it’s not just about renovations; it’s about protecting what matters most.

Although the dangers of asbestos have become commonly known throughout Australia, unfortunately, many are unaware of what you should and shouldn’t do when dealing with asbestos. For this reason, in this blog, we’re focusing on the critical ‘no-nos’ when handling asbestos. These guidelines are essential for maintaining safety and preventing the dangerous spread of asbestos fibres in your home.

Never Cut Asbestos with an Angle Grinder

The danger of using an angle grinder on asbestos was highlighted in a past incident that resulted in complete house decontamination. This situation exemplifies the severe risk as the fine fibres can spread throughout the entire house, contaminating every room and necessitating the disposal of non-decontaminable items. Avoid cutting asbestos with any power tools, especially angle grinders, to prevent such hazardous situations.

Avoid Water Blasting Asbestos Products

High-pressure water blasting can erode the surface of asbestos-containing materials, releasing fibres and shards that can contaminate vast areas both inside your home and in your garden. This action can lead to extensive and costly cleanup processes, including removing contaminated soil and possibly replacing entire roofs. To ensure safety, it’s imperative never to water blast anything that contains asbestos.

Do Not Saw Asbestos

Sawing asbestos is a significant risk, even with specialised saws. The act of sawing can release asbestos fibres into the air, posing serious health hazards. No matter the equipment you possess, the rule is clear: no sawing of asbestos under any circumstances.

Refrain from Drilling into Asbestos

Drilling into asbestos, even with DIY methods like using shaving cream and coffee cups, is ineffective and unsafe. Such actions release dust and fibres that are harmful, which is why professional services equipped for such tasks are necessary. These services ensure proper containment and disposal, mitigating the risks associated with asbestos.

No Hole Saws on Asbestos

Even hole saws, commonly used for fitting downlights, can release asbestos fibres into the environment. An incident where an electrician unknowingly drilled into asbestos eaves, causing contamination, is a stark reminder of the risks involved. The only safe options are to either hire a professional with the right equipment and training or opt for asbestos removal. DIY approaches in these scenarios are highly discouraged.

Conclusion

At Coastal Asbestos, the importance of avoiding these dangerous practices cannot be overstated. Asbestos, when disturbed, becomes friable and significantly more hazardous. The safety of your home and your health is not worth the risk of a DIY approach.

Need assistance with asbestos in your home? Contact Coastal Asbestos for expert, safe, and professional asbestos handling and removal services. Our team is equipped with specialised tools and extensive training to manage any asbestos-related issue you might face. Protect your family and your home – call us or visit our website for a quoye. Avoid the risks; choose safety with Coastal Asbestos.

As a homeowner, it’s crucial to be aware of the materials used in your home, especially when it involves something as significant as asbestos sheeting. In this blog, we provide valuable insights into what asbestos sheeting is, the risks associated with it, and the importance of getting it tested.

What is Asbestos Sheeting?

Asbestos sheeting, commonly found in walls, ceilings, and fences, is not pure asbestos but an asbestos-containing material (ACM). Its basic composition includes sand, cement, water, and about 15% asbestos fibres. Contrary to common belief, asbestos sheeting in homes is not 100% asbestos. For example, vinyl flooring can contain up to 90% asbestos, but the focus here is on the sheeting, which is generally considered non-friable ACM.

The Properties and Use of Asbestos

Asbestos, a naturally mined mineral, has remarkable properties. It is chemically inert, waterproof, heatproof, and fireproof, making it an ideal addition to building materials for its reinforcing and flexible qualities. Its widespread use in over 3,000 products was driven by these attributes and its affordability, especially in the post-World War II era in Australia.

Risks Associated with Asbestos Sheeting

The primary concern with asbestos sheeting arises when it is disturbed – through actions like drilling, cutting, or water blasting. In good condition, a wall with asbestos sheeting poses no risk. However, during renovations or even simple tasks like hanging a picture, there’s a chance of releasing asbestos fibres, which can be harmful.

The Importance of Testing

The only way to be certain about the presence of asbestos in your home is through professional testing. If you suspect your home has asbestos-containing materials, especially in cement-based sheeting, getting it tested is non-negotiable. This is crucial before any home renovation or modification to ensure safety.

Conclusion

Understanding the composition, use, and risks of asbestos sheeting in your home is essential. While asbestos sheeting, in its undisturbed state, is generally safe, the potential risks when disturbed cannot be ignored. Coastal Asbestos emphasises the importance of testing any suspected asbestos-containing materials in your home. This proactive approach ensures not only your safety but also that of your family and any professionals working on your home.

Don’t take chances with your family’s health. Contact Coastal Asbestos today for professional asbestos testing and removal services. Ensure peace of mind and a safer living environment. Call us or visit our website to schedule your consultation now.

Asbestos exposure poses serious health risks, and understanding how to act when you accidentally disturb or discover this hazardous material is crucial. Coastal Asbestos, the premier asbestos removal company based on the Gold Coast, shares expert advice on the steps to take to ensure safety and minimise risks.

Immediate Action is Key If you ever suspect you’ve accidentally damaged asbestos or come across any material that may contain it:

1. Stop: The first and most important step is to halt whatever you’re doing immediately.
2. Step Back and Stay Calm: Remember, the primary danger with asbestos is the release of its tiny fibres into the air. If a sheet containing asbestos is damaged, the fibres can be released and become airborne.
3. Isolate the Area: If you’re indoors, such as renovating a bathroom and you find suspicious material (or labels that mention asbestos or brands known to contain it like Hardiflex or Tilux), try to contain the exposure. Close doors, avoid removing anything from the affected space, and limit the movement of people in and out.
4. Protect Yourself: If you’ve been in direct contact with the disturbed material, head outside immediately. Remove contaminated clothing, leaving it on the ground. It’s essential to avoid washing these clothes; they should be safely disposed of. To minimise fibre spread, you can also dampen your clothing with a hose before removal.
5. Call Experts: It’s vital to reach out to asbestos professionals like Coastal Asbestos. With the help of hygienists, we can assess the spread of fibres and devise a plan for decontamination or disposal.

Understanding the Risks

While some may think asbestos exposure might not affect them due to age, the latency period for asbestos-related diseases can span decades. It’s not just about individual safety; it’s about the well-being of family members, especially young ones. Even minor renovations can lead to contamination of household items, from carpets to furniture, posing risks to everyone in the home. So, therefore, it’s essential for all people to take asbestos exposure and its associated risks very seriously.

In A Workplace Setting

Workplaces constructed before the 1990s (or even 2005 in some areas) typically maintain an asbestos register. If you encounter broken materials, this register can help verify if asbestos is present, making it easier to manage the situation.

Conclusion

Remember, asbestos exposure is a grave concern, but with prompt and appropriate action, risks can be mitigated. If you ever face such a situation, remember the golden rules: stop, remove yourself, isolate the affected area, and call professionals immediately. With this being said, the best thing you can do is call us before you start your renovation, demolition or other work to test the materials to avoid these scenarios.

Your safety and the safety of your loved ones is paramount. If you suspect asbestos disturbance, don’t hesitate. Contact Coastal Asbestos, the trusted experts in the South-East Queensland and North-East NSW regions. With our experience and state-of-the-art methods, we’ll ensure your environment is safe once again. Reach out to us today for a comprehensive asbestos assessment and solution.

Asbestos has a long and complex history in the construction and building industry. In this blog, we delve into vital information about asbestos-containing flooring products. If your property was built before 1990, you must know the potential risks lurking beneath your feet. Here is everything you need to know when it comes to asbestos in flooring products:

Linoleum Asbestos (Linos)

One of the most frequently found asbestos-containing flooring is Linos. For those new to the term, Linos are a combination of linoleum and asbestos fibres. Asbestos was included in this product to enhance the flooring’s durability and fire resistance. Some linos can also have a distinctive green backing paper that can be 100% chrysotile, a type of white asbestos. Removing such material demands the expertise of someone with an A-class licence, given that this kind of asbestos is deemed friable.

Vinyl Asbestos Tiles (VATs)

Another prevalent flooring material is vinyl asbestos tiles or VATs. While these are usually classified as non-friable, removal can sometimes require the involvement of an A-class professional. This is particularly true when tiles are directly glued to substrates, such as concrete or timber. The adhesive often employed, known colloquially as ‘blackjack’, may contain asbestos. And even when there’s no asbestos in the glue, the mere action of separating the tile can lead to hazardous residue.

Compressed Sheeting

In earlier days, when tin floors were standard, areas prone to moisture would often be lined with compressed asbestos sheeting or be bedded with a concrete base. This heavy-duty sheeting was employed to ensure consistent floor heights. Despite weighing approximately 60 kg per square metre, this material was widely used as an underlay for tiles or linos.

Hessian Backing for Carpets

An unexpected place where asbestos might be found is in the hessian backing of some older carpets. Interestingly, it isn’t the hessian itself that contains asbestos. Instead, asbestos was once transported in hessian sacks, which were later recycled as carpet underlay. As a result, the hessian became contaminated with asbestos fibres. Even though hessian doesn’t inherently contain asbestos, this contaminated backing needs to be treated and removed as an asbestos product.

In conclusion, if your property dates back to before 1990, you should be cautious of potential asbestos hazards in flooring materials like lino, VATs, compressed flooring, and hessian underlay for carpets. If you’re concerned about asbestos in your home or workplace, we’re here to assist you. With our expertise and professional team, we ensure safe and efficient removal of any asbestos-containing materials. Don’t take risks; contact us today for a safer tomorrow..