About Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous silicate or rock which was used extensively in the manufacture of building materials. These materials became commonplace throughout Australia from the 1940s to the 1990s due to its strength and durability. Some of the most common products are “fibro”, “super six” corrugated roofing sheets and Asbestos containing vinyl flooring. Asbestos was banned in Queensland in 1990.

Asbestos is an extremely dangerous material. The inhalation of asbestos fibres can lead to a number of respiratory diseases and illnesses, including cancer. Asbestos can generally be defined in two categories:

Bonded asbestos – bonded asbestos, as the name suggests, means that the material is bound together with other building materials like concrete, making it unlikely to break and release deadly fibres without heavy impact. Normal erosion and weathering will cause this material to eventually break down and gradually release fibres, or an accidental breakage (for example, knocking a hole through an asbestos fence) in the material will also release these fibres.

Friable asbestos – friable asbestos is highly dangerous and requires extreme caution. Friable refers to material that is likely to crumble very easily, thereby increasing the risk of fibre inhalation. Friable asbestos is not bonded together with other safe materials. Any exposure to friable asbestos should be reported immediately.