Myths and Facts About Asbestos

Widespread myths about asbestos often lead to unsafe decisions and overlooked risks in homes and workplaces. Many assume asbestos is no longer relevant or easy to identify. Total Asbestos Removal Brisbane is here to separate fact from fiction, offering expert insight backed by years of experience. By uncovering the truth behind common asbestos myths, we aim to help you make informed decisions that prioritise wellbeing, compliance, and responsible property management.

Key Takeaways

• Asbestos is still present in many older homes and buildings, even today.
• Anyone, not just tradies, can be exposed during renovations or repairs.
• Different asbestos types pose varying health risks, but all are dangerous.
• Health issues from asbestos exposure can take decades to appear.
• Disturbing asbestos, not touching it, is what makes it hazardous.
• Safe removal must be handled by licensed professionals; DIY is unsafe and often illegal.

Myth 1: Asbestos Is a Problem of the Past

Fact: Asbestos remains a modern concern.

Many people believe that asbestos was completely banned decades ago and is no longer a threat. While some countries, have implemented full bans, others, still allow limited use of asbestos in certain products.

Moreover, older buildings, homes, schools, offices, and factories often still contain asbestos materials in insulation, floor tiles, roofing, and cement. Renovations, demolitions, or damage to these structures can release asbestos fibres into the air, creating a health risk for those exposed.

Myth 2: Only Construction Workers Are at Risk

Fact: Asbestos exposure can affect anyone, particularly during renovation, demolition, or when disturbing materials containing asbestos.

While it’s true that construction workers, electricians, plumbers, and other tradespeople are at higher occupational risk, asbestos exposure isn’t limited to these groups. Homeowners renovating an old property, maintenance workers, and even residents living near deteriorating asbestos-containing materials can also be exposed.

Asbestos fibres are invisible to the naked eye and can become airborne when materials containing them are disturbed. Inhalation is the primary route of exposure, and even low levels of exposure over time can be dangerous.

Myth 3: All Asbestos Is the Same

Fact: There are different types of asbestos, with varying degrees of risk.

Asbestos is a group of six naturally occurring silicate minerals, divided into two categories: serpentine and amphibole. The most common type used commercially is chrysotile (white asbestos), a serpentine mineral. Amphibole types include amosite (brown asbestos) and crocidolite (blue asbestos), which are generally considered more hazardous due to their straight, needle-like fibres that are more likely to lodge in the lungs.

Although some claim that chrysotile is “safer” or less dangerous, all forms of asbestos are carcinogenic and pose health risks when inhaled.

Myth 4: Asbestos Causes Immediate Symptoms

Fact: Asbestos-related diseases can take decades to develop.

One of the most dangerous aspects of asbestos exposure is the long latency period between exposure and the onset of disease. Symptoms of asbestos-related diseases may take 10 to 40 years or longer to develop. Exposure is associated with serious health conditions, including:

• Asbestosis: A long-term asbestos lung disease resulting from the inhalation of asbestos fibres.
• Mesothelioma: A rare, aggressive cancer that develops in the protective lining of the lungs, abdomen, or chest cavity.
• Lung cancer: Often indistinguishable from lung cancers caused by other factors.
• Pleural plaques: Thickened areas on the lining of the lungs, often an early sign of exposure.

Because of the delay in symptom development, many people are unaware they’ve been exposed until years later.

Myth 5: Asbestos Is Dangerous Only When You Touch It

Fact: Asbestos becomes hazardous when disturbed, releasing fibres that can be inhaled into the lungs.

Touching or even being near asbestos-containing materials is not inherently dangerous if those materials are intact and undisturbed. However, the danger arises when asbestos is damaged, cut, drilled, or crumbles, releasing microscopic fibres into the air.

These fibres can stay airborne for hours and are easily inhaled. This is why engaging licensed professionals service for asbestos abatement is essential when managing suspected asbestos-containing materials in older structures.

Myth 6: Asbestos Can Be Safely Removed Without Professional Help

Fact: Asbestos removal should always be handled by licensed professionals.

Due to the serious health risks involved, asbestos handling and removal must be done by trained and certified professionals who follow strict safety protocols. In many jurisdictions, it’s illegal for unlicensed individuals to remove asbestos.

Improper handling can not only expose the individual but also contaminate the environment, putting others at risk. Professional abatement teams use protective equipment, seal off work areas, and ensure proper disposal to prevent exposure.

Myth 7: If You’ve Been Exposed Once, You’ll Get Sick

Fact: While no level of asbestos exposure is completely safe, not everyone exposed will develop disease.

The risk of illness depends on several factors, including the duration and intensity of exposure, the type of asbestos, and individual susceptibility. Smoking can significantly increase the risk of lung cancer in people exposed to asbestos.

Still, even a single exposure can pose a potential health risk, especially with amphibole types. That’s why prevention and early detection remain critical.

Conclusion

The truth about asbestos isn’t always visible, but the risks are very real. Myths and misinformation can lead to poor decisions, health risks, and non-compliance. At Total Asbestos Removal Brisbane, our mission is to arm you with the facts and provide expert solutions to keep your environment safe. Need peace of mind? Whether you need an inspection, safe removal, or expert guidance, our licensed asbestos professionals are ready to assist. Reach out to us today for trusted support.

FAQs:

Is asbestos still found in modern homes?

Yes. Homes built before 1990 frequently contain asbestos. Even newer renovations may disturb existing materials.

Is asbestos harmful if it’s sealed and undisturbed?

If left untouched and in good condition, non-friable asbestos poses a low risk. However, disturbance during repairs can release harmful fibres.

Can I legally remove asbestos myself in Queensland?

In Queensland, you may remove less than 10 square metres of non-friable asbestos, but it is strongly discouraged. Licensed professionals are recommended.

What health risks are associated with asbestos exposure?

Inhaling asbestos fibres can lead to diseases like asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer, often appearing decades after exposure.

How much does asbestos removal cost?

Costs vary based on material type, quantity, and site conditions. We offer detailed, obligation-free quotes tailored to your property.

What should I do if I suspect asbestos in my home?

Do not disturb it. Contact a licensed removalist to assess and handle the material safely.