Asbestos

Asbestos cement products were commonly manufactured in WA from 1921 to 1987. Products made during this time are still commonly found in older homes and buildings. The most common form found today is asbestos cement, such as ‘fibro’ housing panels and fibrous fencing, where the asbestos fibres have been mixed with cement to provide strength.

Although material containing asbestos is linked with development of respiratory disease, to date, the majority of people who have developed such diseases have been exposed to relatively large numbers of fibres as a result of contact with the material in their occupation.

Generally, if material containing asbestos is in good repair, it does not pose a risk to health. If you intend to remove material that you suspect contains asbestos care should be taken not to expose yourself to the fibres. Protective measures include wetting the material down, not using power tools and wearing face masks etc. See the Disposal of Material Containing Asbestos leaflet for more information.

If you witness asbestos being removed in a manner which is unsafe, for example – the use of power tools to cut the material or people not wearing appropriate protective equipment, please contact us immediately so that we can investigate the incident as it is occurring.

If you are concerned about degraded asbestos material located on a neighbouring property please complete and return a Health Investigation Request Form.

Disposal of Material Containing Asbestos
Asbestos Cement Products in Your Home
Health Investigation Request Form