By Dakin Jill
We all know that asbestos is a harmful material and it is quite alarming to know that there are still many structures that contain asbestos. Basically, every building in Australia that was constructed pre-1980 could contain asbestos, which can come in many forms; building materials that come in sheets, for example, probably contain bonded asbestos and when this is disturbed, harmful slivers of the material can become airborne and if inhaled, could lodge in the lungs and stay there indefinitely, without you showing any symptoms.
Legal Requirements
According to Australian law, the owner of a premises must:
- Conduct an investigation to determine the presence of asbestos.
- Create and maintain an asbestos management plan.
- List the materials that may contain asbestos, including the condition, locations and control measures.
- Develop measures to eliminate asbestos from the workplace.
Due to the risks involved with asbestos, it is federal law that you use an approved asbestos removal company, who employs trained professionals to test for the presence of the material, while other teams are approved to remove asbestos and dispose of it safely. You can find asbestos roof removal in Perth with an online search and they can handle everything on your behalf.
Airborne Risks
When bonded asbestos is broken up, it is usually in powdered form and when this happens, the substance is airborne and it actually invisible to the naked eye. So, if a team of workers rips apart an old roof, there is a huge risk that one or more person will inhale slivers of asbestos. The worst of all is that on one will know; asbestos is known as a silent killer and it could be 5-10 years before any symptoms emerge.
The Importance of Testing
As a business owner, it is important that you arrange asbestos testing for your commercial premises and with an online search, you can easily locate a Perth-based company that specialises in asbestos testing and safe removal. Testing will tell you if there is asbestos present and most importantly, the precise locations and forms; in the event no asbestos is present, you will be issued with a certificate and there are protocols in place to follow that ensure no asbestos is ever brought into the place of work.
Leave it to the Professionals
When it comes to asbestos testing and removal, you are advised to contact a government approved company, as they are geared up for this type of work. Start with an online search and you will find quite a few asbestos removal companies and by making an enquiry, you can have your business premises tested and if asbestos is found, safe removal is assured.
