New guidelines help tradies and homeowners tackle asbestos risks

On National Mesothelioma Day, the Institute for Respiratory Health is urging homeowners, tradies and renovators to stay vigilant about the hidden dangers of asbestos, a deadly material still present in many homes across Australia. Despite being banned more than two decades ago, asbestos continues to kill more than 4,000 Australians every year – a staggering 300 per cent higher than the annual road toll.

Tradespeople and DIY renovators are particularly at risk, especially when working on properties built before 1990. Shockingly, asbestos can still be found in one out of every three Australian homes.

“Asbestos was banned in Australia more than 20 years ago, but the ban didn’t cover the asbestos already installed in homes and buildings,” said Ms Melita Markey, Director at the Institute for Respiratory Health.

There is an estimated 6.2 million tons of asbestos material still present in the built environment and many renovators may unknowingly disturb these dangerous fibres.

“The good news is that new Asbestos Product Guidelines, developed by the Asbestos and Silica Safety and Eradication Agency (ASSEA), offer an interactive tool that could help save lives,” said Ms Markey. “The tool is easy to use and helps you identify where asbestos could be hidden – in your ceiling, walls, roofing, pipes and plumbing.”

She added, “If you’re not sure whether a material contains asbestos, don’t touch it. If you’re not trained or equipped to handle asbestos, it’s crucial to call in a professional.”

The Institute also emphasises that more research into asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma is desperately needed. Right now, many Australians with diseases linked to asbestos, including lung cancer, are suffering without access to new treatments. Research is severely underfunded, despite the rising number of cases.

“Investment into research is essential. It not only paves the way for new treatments but also supports early detection through lung screening, which can lead to a diagnosis and ultimately save lives,” Ms Markey said.

The Institute for Respiratory Health is leading the way through innovative clinical trials that give patients access to the latest therapies.

“Asbestos kills slowly and silently, with many people not even realising they’re affected until it’s too late,” she added. “I encourage all tradies and renovators to think twice and have a look at the new guidelines.”

The new guidelines can be found by visiting – products.asbestossafety.gov.au.

Media contact:

RDM Marketing Consultants
0450613460