Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous silicate mineral that was once popular in construction because of its heat resistance and durability.
The fibre has now been identified as a potent carcinogen, which can lead to lung diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma if inhaled.
Although phased out in the 1980s, asbestos can still be found in buildings built between the 1920s and 1990s (Australia was one of the highest users of asbestos per capita). Asbestos is detected in over 3000 applications, for example: insulation, flooring, roofing, and textured paints.
If you suspect a building contains asbestos, it’s important to organise NATA-accredited inspection services to confirm its presence so you can manage the associated risks. EAPL provides professional asbestos sampling and analysis in NATA accredited laboratories.