Asbestos roofs put South East neighbourhoods at risk

Queenslander’s are inadvertently putting their neighbour’s lives at risk by using high pressure water blasters on asbestos roofs. The Queensland Government is warning homeowners to take caution following three reports in the last three weeks.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Steven Miles said homeowners in Burpengary, Salisbury and Toowoomba had been reported for potentially releasing hazardous asbestos fibres into neighbouring properties, posing a serious public health risk to the community.

“It is illegal to use a high pressure water blaster on asbestos cement roofs, fences, walls and other asbestos containing materials,” Mr Miles said.

“Water blasters can destroy the surface of asbestos-containing materials, which can release asbestos fibres into the air, putting yours and your neighbours’ health at risk.

“Homeowners can be fined up to $10,000 for using a water blaster on asbestos-containing materials, and are liable for all clean-up costs. Just last year, a homeowner in the South East was forced to pay a $100,000 clean-up bill.

“Asbestos is perfectly safe if it’s in good condition and left alone, but it can be very dangerous if disturbed.

“Asbestos fibres cannot be seen by the naked eye, but if inhaled, they can become lodged in the lungs, where they can develop into diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.”

Housing and Public Works Minister Mick de Brenni encouraged homeowners to arm themselves with information about the risks of inadvertently disturbing asbestos, before renovating or working on their properties.

“Looking around most Queensland neighbourhoods, you’ll see pre 1990 homes meaning there’s a pretty good chance there’s asbestos somewhere in the building,” Mr de Brenni said.

“Undisturbed it won’t affect you however we all do home maintenance from time to time meaning we’ve all got to be careful.

“Have a look up and if your roof is made from corrugated cement sheeting, there’s a chance it contains asbestos, so the rule is - play it safe and engage expert tradespeople. 

“Even though you can handle very small amounts on your own - why would you risk it? If you do there are rules to handling small amounts that you need to follow.

“Whether you’re a homeowner, DIY renovator or a tradie, my advice is find out if and where asbestos is located and the regulations around working with the dangerous materials, before starting your project.

“If you believe a homeowner, occupant or owner-builder is unsafely handling, removing or transporting asbestos material or a person has illegally dumped asbestos waste, contact your local Council and stay clear of the material.

“The management of asbestos in non-workplaces is the responsibility of local governments under public health legislation.”

Queensland Health provides information and advice to the general public on asbestos and its health risks and works in partnership with other government agencies in response to incidents involving asbestos.

For asbestos safety information, visit www.qld.gov.au/asbestos or call 13 QGOV. 

ENDS

Media contact:               Katharine Wright - 0428 957 903