Asbestos was commonly used in building materials prior to 1987. Asbestos fibres can be present in a number of products including:
- Roofing, shingles and siding
- Exterior wall cladding
- Fencing
- Thermal boards around fireplaces
- Gaskets in wood stoves
- Textured paints
- Backing material in flooring/tiles
- Water or flue pipes
- Insulation of pipes/heaters
Asbestos is always present in the air we breathe, so we are all exposed to a low background level everyday, however this is highly unlikely to lead to asbestos-related disease. Generally, undisturbed asbestos cement products do not pose a health risk, as the fibres are bound together in a solid cement matrix, such as in asbestos fences. However, if the material is damaged or disturbed, fibres may be released into the air. Asbestos can pose a serious health risk if not removed safely.
For further information about disease risk refer to the Department of Health website.
It is impossible to confirm asbestos with the naked eye, as the fibres present are microscopic. There are several fencing products that look like asbestos, but there are a few factors to consider which will help determine the likelihood the product is asbestos.
If a fence is cement-like and the age is pre-1990 then it is likely to be asbestos. The typical characteristic features of corrugated asbestos fences are:
- Brand name of “Super Six” (non-asbestos is commonly named “Hardifence” and looks more like compacted sheets of cardboard)
- Usually seven ridges per one metre wide panel (non-asbestos usually have five ridges)
- Use of diamond shaped metal fasteners (non-asbestos normally have none)
- Having a hessian (crosshatch-like) surface pattern (non-asbestos vertical linear dimple pattern)
- Having asbestos cement capping (non-asbestos have metal capping, however asbestos capping often may be missing or replaced by metal capping).
For further information on identification refer to the Department of Health website and guidance notes below:
Curtin University researchers have recently launched the "ACM Check" (Asbestos-Containing Material Check) app which guides you through an inspection of your house and generates a summary report of the inspection to identify asbestos material in your home.
This project also allows homeowners to anonymously participate in research to give researchers an idea of how much asbestos is left in homes in WA. Sharing of your data with Curtin University is at your discretion, and you will still have complete access to the app if you choose not to participate, although it is encouraged.
You can download the app from both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store for free.
For more information download the brochure below or visit the Curtin University website.
All asbestos cement products can be removed safely without causing a risk to the public or workers, provided safe work procedures are followed.
Persons removing asbestos cement products must comply with the Health (Asbestos) Regulations 1992, the Occupational Safety and Health Regulations 1996 and Environmental Protection (Controlled Waste) Regulations 2004. Persons removing more than 10m2 of bonded asbestos are required to hold an asbestos license, issued by WorkSafe WA.
Special precautions must be taken when removing asbestos cement products. You may seek the services of an asbestos removal contractor or choose to remove the material yourself.
If you choose to remove the material yourself, you are required to comply with the Health (Asbestos) Regulations 1992. Refer to the Department of Health website for precautions and safe removal information. As a courtesy, let your neighbours know you will be undertaking removal so they too can take precautions.
The national enHealth Council has also produced an extensive resource for householders titled Asbestos - A guide for householders and the general public.
E-learning for the DIY renovator on basic asbestos knowledge is provided by the Cancer Council at kNOw asbestos in your home.
Within the metropolitan area, asbestos cement waste must be disposed of in accordance with the requirements of the Environmental Protection (Controlled Waste) Regulations 2004. Material containing asbestos must be:
- Separated from all other waste
- Wrapped in heavy duty plastic to prevent asbestos fibres entering the atmosphere during transportation by road
- Clearly labelled and marked 'CAUTION ASBESTOS'.
All asbestos material must be disposed of at a landfill or waste disposal site licensed by the Department of Environment Regulation. The nearest facilities to accept asbestos waste area:
The Town has two hazardous waste disposal days every year (April and November) in which residents can dispose of asbestos. Refer to the Household Hazardous Waste page for further information and dates.
Please refer to the Department of Commerce website to find a removalist.