International Asbestos Conference emphasis individual vigilance

Homeowners thinking about pre-Christmas home renovations are being warned to arm themselves with information about the risks of inadvertently disturbing asbestos as part of a push to raise community awareness this November.

Treasurer and Minister for Industrial Relations Curtis Pitt this morning opened the International Conference on Asbestos Awareness & Management, saying before starting any new project renovators and tradies needed to ensure they know where asbestos might be discovered and what should be done if it’s found.

“This conference brings together renowned local and international experts in asbestos management, health, advocacy and governance to look at what is best practice in managing the dangers of asbestos around the world,” he said.

“I have written to hardware stores and local councils in Queensland to ask them to display information and hold demonstrations showing how to safely work with and dispose of asbestos properly.

“November is Asbestos Awareness Month and right across Australia events are being held to make people aware of the need to treat asbestos with care, as well as raising vital funds for medical research and support services for suffers of asbestos-related diseases.

“We are also sending out our asbestos safety advocates, Don and Julie Sager, to any business who requests to hear their safety presentation.”

Don and Julie lost their son Adam to an asbestos disease and they have a very powerful story to tell about the dangers of exposure to airborne asbestos fibres.

Mr Pitt said whether you’re a homeowner, DIY renovator or a tradie, you need to know if and where asbestos is located in your home before you start any work.

“The potential health risks to you and your family if you disturb it without taking adequate precautions are just not worth it,” Mr Pitt said.

“We know more can always be done but we think we are on the right track here in Queensland - a clear direction and a coordinated approach from the authorities and raising awareness and getting practical advice to the community.”

An ecumenical memorial service to remember those who have lost their lives to an asbestos-related disease will be held at the Cathedral of St Stephen, Elizabeth Street, Brisbane at 11am on Friday 27 November.

For more information visit: www.qld.gov.au/asbestos

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