How is asbestos affecting you? 61% of renovators exposed
Asbestos strikes fear into the heart of many property owners, renovators and tenants, and rightly so - it's dangerous stuff. This month in Queensland it's National Asbestos Awareness Month, where they're making the focus DIY renovators.
Health Minister Lawrence Springborg said that it's crucial the health issues around asbestos are brought up earlier on in the process.
“Many Queenslanders, particularly young couples, who do their own renovations may be putting their health and the health of their families at risk,” said Springborg.
Drilling, sawing, sanding and cutting asbestos products can put the fibres into the air, causing exposure. Those unaware - this can lead to mesothelioma, a rare type of cancer.
Terrifyingly, a new report into DIY work in homes in New South Wales, published by Deborah Yates and in the Medical Journal of Australia, found that 61% of renovators had been exposed to asbestos. This was as 12% reported they used respiratory protection regularly.
It's taking the Twitter-sphere by storm, with a number of people tweeting out their support of the month as well as their concerns.
Asbestos Inspections can save lives. Are you playing renovation roulette? Please share this post to help promote Asbestos Awareness month.
— Jim's Inspections (@JimsInspections) November 19, 2013Are tenants on the firing then? https://t.co/Rfj3LR4ltg https://t.co/QdouTHRk0Y @propertyobs @JennieDuke
— Just Think Property (@justthink1) November 24, 2013If you are unsure about asbestos, and whether it is present where you are currently residing or intending to renovate, check out these factsheets from the government online.
Stay safe!
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