Tradies warned of asbestos risk

HOMEOWNERS, renovators and tradesmen are urged to heed warnings about asbestos when renovating or maintaining homes.

Wattle Range Council development, health and compliance manager John Best said individuals should be aware of absestos-containing products and how to manage asbestos safely.

“You could be risking your life and the lives of others if you disturb asbestos-containing materials and release fibres into the air that can be inhaled,” he said.

“The more a person is exposed to asbestos fibres, the greater the risk of developing asbestos-related diseases.

“Although some tradies may have worked with asbestos in the past and ignored the warnings, they need to take the warnings seriously and learn where asbestos might be, how to manage it safely and when to engage trained experts to conduct asbestos-related work or remove asbestos-containing materials safely.

“One of the greatest health threats to families and tradespeople is asbestos fibres during renovations and maintenance, so if you are a renovator or a tradie, when it comes to asbestos visit asbestosawareness.com.au to learn what you need to know.”