Why DIY Asbestos Removal is Not Recommended in Australia

Asbestos is a hazardous material that was widely used in Australian construction until the late 1980s. It was valued for its fire-resistant properties, strength, and affordability, which made it a popular choice in everything from roofing to flooring and even insulation. However, in the late 20th century, the dangerous health risks associated with asbestos exposure became undeniable, leading to its eventual ban. Despite this, many older homes and buildings still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). As a result, homeowners may wonder if DIY asbestos removal is a viable option to save money. While the idea may seem appealing, there are many important reasons why DIY asbestos removal is not recommended in Australia.

1. Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure

The primary concern surrounding asbestos is its serious health risks. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, microscopic asbestos fibers are released into the air. These fibers are invisible to the naked eye and can be inhaled deep into the lungs, where they can cause significant health issues.

Exposure to asbestos is linked to several deadly diseases, including:

• Asbestosis: A chronic lung condition that results in scarring of lung tissue and severe breathing difficulties. 
• Lung Cancer: Long-term exposure to asbestos increases the risk of developing lung cancer. 
• Mesothelioma: A rare but aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart and is almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure. 
• Pleural Disease: Thickening or calcification of the lungs’ lining, which can lead to respiratory issues. 

Even brief or minimal exposure to asbestos fibers can have a cumulative effect on health, and the diseases caused by asbestos typically take years or even decades to manifest. For this reason, removing asbestos from your home without the proper protective measures can lead to irreversible harm.

2. Legal Regulations and Requirements

In Australia, strict regulations govern the handling and removal of asbestos. These rules are designed to protect public health and the environment from the risks posed by asbestos. Under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Safe Work Australia guidelines, asbestos removal is classified into three categories:

• Category A Asbestos Removal: This involves the removal of high-risk asbestos (e.g., asbestos insulation). This type of removal requires licensed professionals and very stringent safety measures. 
• Category B Asbestos Removal: This involves the removal of less hazardous asbestos materials such as asbestos cement sheeting. While a license is still required, it is not as restrictive as Category A removal. 
• Minor Removals: If the asbestos is in small quantities (less than 10 square meters), it may be possible for a homeowner to perform the removal, but this still requires training and protective equipment. 

Attempting DIY asbestos removal without meeting these legal requirements can lead to serious legal consequences. Penalties for improper handling or disposal of asbestos can include fines and even imprisonment. Additionally, improperly removed asbestos can cause environmental contamination, leading to further legal repercussions.

3. The Complexity of Asbestos Removal

Asbestos removal is not a simple task. Even small amounts of asbestos can present a significant risk if not handled correctly. To safely remove asbestos, a thorough understanding of the materials involved and the right techniques are essential.

Some of the complexities involved in asbestos removal include:

• Identification of Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACMs): Asbestos may be hidden in areas such as ceilings, walls, floors, and pipes, and can be hard to detect. Identifying whether materials contain asbestos requires expertise. 
• Proper Removal Techniques: Asbestos must be removed without disturbing it too much to avoid releasing harmful fibers. This typically involves wetting the material, using specialised tools, and using a controlled environment. 
• Waste Disposal: Once asbestos has been removed, it must be disposed of in a licensed facility to ensure it does not contaminate the environment. Improper disposal can lead to contamination of public areas, affecting local communities and wildlife. 

A licensed asbestos removalist has the right training, equipment, and procedures to ensure the material is safely removed and disposed of. They understand the complex requirements involved and are better equipped to handle even unexpected issues that might arise.

4. Inadequate Protection for DIYers

One of the major reasons DIY asbestos removal is not recommended is that homeowners often lack the necessary protective gear and equipment. Asbestos fibers are incredibly hazardous, and improper handling can easily lead to exposure.

For a safe removal, professionals use:

• Full Protective Suits: To ensure that no asbestos fibers come into contact with the skin. 
• Respirators and Face Masks: Specially designed to filter out harmful asbestos fibers from the air. 
• High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) Filters: These filters are used in vacuum cleaners to ensure that airborne fibers are removed from the area. 
• Negative Pressure Systems: These systems are used to prevent asbestos fibers from escaping into the environment during removal. 

Without access to these specialised tools and equipment, a DIYer is at a significantly higher risk of exposure. The improper use of protective equipment or lack of experience with safety measures can result in the very contamination that homeowners are trying to avoid.

5. Asbestos Removal Requires Specialised Training

Another key reason why DIY asbestos removal is not advisable is the level of expertise required. Asbestos removal is not just about “getting rid of the material.” It requires in-depth knowledge of the type of asbestos, the best techniques for removal, the right protective gear, and safe disposal practices.

Licensed asbestos removalists undergo extensive training to handle the material safely, often completing certification courses and working under strict regulations. These professionals understand how to assess the risk involved, use safe removal practices, and contain the fibers in a manner that ensures they do not spread. They are also trained in emergency response should things go wrong.

On the other hand, even those with a reasonable level of DIY experience may find themselves unprepared for the challenges of asbestos removal. Without the right skills, a DIYer might inadvertently make the situation worse, causing more harm than good.

6. Costs of DIY Asbestos Removal vs. Professional Removal

While it may initially seem like DIY asbestos removal could save you money, the long-term costs of getting it wrong can far outweigh the upfront savings. In addition to the potential health risks, there are financial consequences if something goes wrong.

For example:

• Increased Cleanup Costs: If asbestos fibers are improperly contained, it can lead to contamination of your home, and cleaning up a large amount of asbestos can be both difficult and expensive. 
• Legal Fines: If you do not comply with safety regulations, you may face hefty fines. 
• Health Bills: If you or others are exposed to asbestos and develop a related disease, medical treatment costs can be substantial. These diseases can lead to years of treatment and even death, putting both a financial and emotional burden on families. 

Hiring a licensed asbestos removalist may seem like a higher upfront cost, but it ensures that the job is done safely and correctly, and can help avoid these future costs.

Conclusion

While DIY asbestos removal projects can be satisfying and cost-effective in many situations, asbestos removal is one task where the risks of going it alone far outweigh the benefits. In Australia, where strict regulations and health standards are in place, trying to remove asbestos yourself could lead to serious health issues, legal trouble, and even environmental contamination.

For your safety, the safety of your family, and the environment, it is always best to leave asbestos removal to licensed professionals like Impact Site Services. They have the knowledge, equipment, and experience to remove asbestos safely and in compliance with the law. If you suspect that your home or workplace contains asbestos, contact a licensed asbestos removalist today to ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone.