Asbestos: Frequently Asked Questions

Asbestos is a naturally occurring material that was widely used in building materials up to 1987. It is commonly found in materials such as:

• Roofing, shingles and siding
• Fencing
• Exterior wall cladding
• Backing material on floor tiles and vinyl flooring
• Textured paints
• Water or flue pipes

When such materials are left undisturbed they are relatively harmless. However, if the material is damaged or disturbed it may release fibres into the air which can eventually be fatal.

If unsure contact one of our asbestos specialist we can come out and take a test sample of the material and have analysed by a NATA accredited laboratory that can confirm the presence of asbestos in a product.

If in doubt treat the suspect material as though it does contain asbestos.

A person cannot determine whether a material contains asbestos simply by looking at it. Careful examination using a specific instrument is the only way to verify the presence of asbestos which is why a NATA accredited laboratory is required.

Many houses built or renovated before the mid-1980s were made from asbestos products. Have the house assessed by one of our asbestos specialist at Azytek Asbestos Services.

Never walk on an asbestos cement roof as they are weak. If asbestos cement products are in sound condition and never disturbed, they do not pose a significant health risk. Weathered roofing requires replacement, as structurally poor roofing fails to be waterproof. A licensed asbestos removalist is required to remove and transport asbestos-containing materials.

Treat all products containing any amount of asbestos as potentially dangerous if disturbed. A licensed asbestos removalist should remove all asbestos containing material.

No. It is unlawful due to the health risks should the material become disturbed in the future. It must be taken to a regulated facility that can receive and treat asbestos waste. Details are discussed further in the questions below.

Azytek provide the services to come out and wrap the asbestos up and dispose of it.

Contact your local council for waste facilities in your area.

The Environment Protection Authority in your state can provide information on transporting and disposing of asbestos waste.

Asbestos products were often used in wet areas of older homes built or renovated before the mid-1980s such as bathrooms, kitchens and laundries. If in doubt, please contact one of our asbestos specialist at Azytek Asbestos Services.