Greetings from Coastal Asbestos, the leading asbestos removal experts on the Gold Coast. Today, we’re taking a closer look at some of the most unusual and unexpected places where asbestos has been found. This list highlights the critical need for awareness and vigilance when dealing with older materials and products.
1. Pool Shells
In the past, asbestos fibres were mixed into the material used to construct pool shells. Many such pools still exist across Australia, potentially testing positive for asbestos.
2. Filters
Asbestos was used in various types of filters during World War II, including those for gas masks, and disturbingly, for filtering products like milk, beer, wine, and even cigarette filters.
3. Linoleum Flooring
Asbestos-backed linoleum is classified as friable, meaning it easily crumbles and releases asbestos fibers, posing significant health risks. This type of flooring was popular in homes and public buildings up through the mid-20th century, often found in kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways due to its durability and ease of cleaning.
4. HVAC Ducts
In many older commercial buildings, asbestos was used to insulate HVAC ducts, especially around heating elements, making it a high-risk asbestos-containing material. These asbestos-lined ducts can be found in schools, office buildings, and factories, where they were installed to manage air temperature efficiently over long distances.
5. Ceramic Fuses
Old ceramic electrical fuses often contained asbestos as a flashguard, which could be easily overlooked in routine electrical maintenance or upgrades. These fuses are commonly found in older residential and commercial buildings, particularly in fuse boxes that have not been updated to modern electrical standards.
6. Bakelite in Electrical Components
Bakelite, an early form of plastic used in switches and other electrical components, sometimes contained asbestos. Despite its asbestos content, Bakelite items are still found and sold today.
7. Jewellery
Asbestos can be found in some types of jewellery, particularly items made from the mineral tiger’s eye, which contains asbestos fibres that give it its characteristic appearance.
8. Rope Seals in Antique Ovens
Antique ovens and stoves often have rope seals made from asbestos, posing a risk when they degrade or are disturbed during restoration.
9. Fire Blankets
Old fire blankets, designed to smother fires, were made using woven asbestos fibres. Handling these can release dangerous fibres into the air.
10. Children’s Crayons
Recently, some imported crayons have been found to contain asbestos, a stark reminder of the ongoing vigilance needed regarding imported goods.
11. Asbestos in Lifts and Generators
In older buildings, asbestos was commonly used in components like lift brake pads and generators, areas not typically considered during asbestos assessments.
Why Awareness Is Crucial
These examples illustrate that asbestos can lurk in many unexpected places, not just in the obvious wall sheeting or insulation commonly associated with older buildings. Recognising these potential hazards is crucial in preventing health risks associated with asbestos exposure.
Call to Action
If you suspect that your property or any items within it may contain asbestos, it’s essential to act promptly. At Coastal Asbestos, we provide thorough inspections and safe removal services to ensure that your environment is asbestos-free. Don’t take the risk—contact us today for expert advice and professional asbestos removal services. Visit our website or call us to learn more about how we can help you identify and manage asbestos risks in your home or business. Safety is our priority, and with Coastal Asbestos, you’re in good hands.