One in three homes contain asbestos
WITH the recent posting of packages containing asbestos to embassies and consulates throughout Australia, a reminder is being issued to home renovators about the ongoing dangers of asbestos still hidden in and around Australian homes.
At least one in every three Australian homes contains asbestos and with a rise in popularity of DIY renovations in recent years, a growing number of people are at risk of being exposed to the potentially deadly material.
Australia has one of the highest rates of asbestos-related diseases in the world, due in large to widespread use of asbestos as a building material before 1987.
Asbestos can be found in internal and external walls, under floor coverings such as carpets, linoleum and vinyl tiles, behind wall and floor tiles and in eaves, garages. It has also been detected around hot water pipes, fences, outdoor toilets, chook pens and backyard sheds.
