ASBESTOS SAFETY AFTER BUSHFIRES

Asbestos is found in building materials, particularly in houses built before the 1980’s in Australia. So, when a bushfire occurs, asbestos fibres can be released extensively.

An additional burden whilst trying to recover from the fire. However, it is imperative that all of us try to stay away from asbestos exposure, to avoid asbestos related disease, such as Asbestosis, Mesothelioma and Lung Cancer.

The following advice comes from the Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency of Australia (ASEA).

Advice common across all Commonwealth, state and territory responsible authorities includes:

• Take all advice from emergency and clean up personnel on the ground
• Do not enter your property until you are advised that it is safe
• Wear a P2 face mask and protective clothing (such as sturdy boots and gloves) – whether you believe asbestos may be present or not.
  • Advice from the Department of Health regarding P2 face masks
  • An example of the type of protective clothing suggested can be found here, provided by Emergency NSW.
• Keep children (and animals) clear of the site
• Building rubble should not be buried as it may contain hazardous materials including asbestos
• Don’t spread ash and debris around your property, or move it extensively, particularly if asbestos materials were used in your home or other structures
• Moisten the ash with water to minimise dust and keep damp but do not use high pressure water sprays

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR ADVICE CONTACT THE ASBESTOSIS AND MESOITHELIOMA ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA ON 1800 017 758 OR VIA EMAIL info@asbestosassociation.com.au