Suspect that the home you own, or are about to purchase, has asbestos? It’s not always easy to tell, but it is extremely important to know. Any renovations or abrasions to asbestos-containing materials (ACM) can release minute particles into the air, putting you and your family at risk of exposure. Asbestos particles have been shown to cause deadly lung conditions asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. Importantly, you can’t tell by looking at the material whether it contains asbestos. In its natural state, asbestos can range in colour from green, brown, white, or blue. However, it was often painted, or mixed into other materials - which can change its appearance. The only way to tell, is by getting a qualified inspector to provide asbestos testing and or sampling before you renovate your home.
Asbestos is a natural fibre which was mined for its strong, flexible, and insulating properties. Up until 1984, Australia had one of the highest rates of asbestos use in the world. It was used widely in homes from the 1930’s right up until 1990, when it was banned in building products. However, a total ban didn't come into effect until 2003. So, if the home in question was built before 2003 it may contain asbestos. This includes older homes that pre-date its introduction. Asbestos-containing materials could potentially (and often) have been used in additions or renovations after initial construction. Asbestos was not only used in the wall sheeting of many Australian homes. It was used in floor sheeting, roofing, fences, pipes, thermal insulation, and fireproofing.
| Asbestos visual Inspection (Domesic) | From - $350.00 |
| Asbestos Lab analysis | From - $66.00/sample |
| Asbestos visual Inspection and condition report (Commerial) | Price on Application |
| Asbestos management Plan (Commerial) | Price on Application |
Benchmark Building Reports take the utmost care during asbestos testing to ensure the safety of the occupants during the process. There are stringent requirements around asbestos sampling, and we follow those to the letter. After I visually inspect the property, I will identify any asbestos or ACM, and make a report. If a sample or samples are required, I make a separate time to take this. Only a small sample of possible ACM is required. When send the sample to a laboratory, where it is usually tested the same or next day.
Whether the testing is for pre-purchase or for renovation, knowing exactly what the home contains helps you understand the risks. It is not impossible to renovate a home with asbestos but knowing allows you to get a clear understanding of exactly which materials on the property put you at risk. This allows you to factor in asbestos removal to your renovation budget. If we are testing a commercial building, it is the first stage of your asbestos management plan.
Do you need a licensed asbestos tester to help you form an asbestos management plan at your commercial property? Since 2014, commercial buildings constructed before 31 December 2003 require an asbestos inspection. Any asbestos or ACM that is present in the building requires labelling and mandatory recording in the asbestos register. An asbestos management plan is compulsory for ACM in commercial buildings. This helps you manage and control the building and relevant structures and help prevent exposure to airborne fibres. Benchmark Building Reports can guide the process of inspection, reporting, registration and implementing an asbestos management plan, so that you can comply with these codes.
This information on asbestos regulations is a guide only and is not comprehensive. For a full and complete list of regulations, please refer to the QBCC guidelines on asbestos safety.
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