Asbestos in domestic buildings
Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used in various building products until the mid-1980s. The most common of these products was asbestos cement, which was typically used as a sheet-backing for ceramic tiles, external cladding (fibro), corrugated roofing and the like.
We now know that asbestos is a serious health risk because airborne fibres from the material cause various lung diseases, among them mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis.
Removing asbestos
The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2007 set out the requirements for removing and disposing of asbestos.
Asbestos removal must be done by a licensed removalist and WorkSafe must be notified of any work taking place.
More information
Below are some resources that contain information about asbestos in domestic environments: