Upgrading a home with a simple security system could expose DIYers to an unexpected risk.
Master Builders Australia Chief Executive Denita Wawn is using National Asbestos Australia Week to raise awareness of how easy a home owner could be exposed to the toxic material.
Ms Wawn said it was estimated that one in three Australian homes could still contain asbestos and around 4000 Australians died each year from asbestos-related diseases.
“With the rise in renovations and simple additions like home security installations, homeowners could unwittingly put themselves at risk by drilling into asbestos eaves to install security cameras, CCTV systems, and sensor lights,” she said.
“These actions can release asbestos fibres which, when not properly controlled, can lead to serious health issues, including mesothelioma and lung cancer.”
Ms Wawn said all homeowners should take care when it came to renovations or repairs.
“If your home was built before 1990, there’s a good chance it contains asbestos.
“Asbestos was used in over 3000 building products, and it can show up inside and outside, in floors, walls, ceilings, eaves, pipes and roofs.”
She said most of those products were 30 to 100 years old, and the older they became, the more likely they were to release harmful asbestos fibres into the air if disturbed.
“While it’s tempting to do DIY projects to save money, the consequences can be deadly.
“You can’t tell if a material contains asbestos just by looking at it; if you think a material might contain asbestos, you should err on the side of caution and call a professional to find out for sure.”
