Renovating a home can be an exciting process, but for homes built before the 1990s, there may be hidden dangers lurking in the walls, ceilings, floors, or insulation materials. Asbestos, a highly hazardous material, was once widely used in construction due to its fire resistance and insulation properties. However, when disturbed, asbestos can release tiny fibres that pose serious health risks, including lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma.
In this article, we will provide Melbourne homeowners with a comprehensive guide on how to safely handle asbestos during a renovation. This guide will cover the steps to take before, during, and after a renovation to ensure the health and safety of everyone involved, as well as compliance with relevant regulations.
1. Understand the Risks: Why Asbestos Is Still a Threat
Even though asbestos use in residential construction was banned in Australia in 2003, many older homes—especially those built before the 1990s—still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). These materials may include:
- Textured ceiling coatings (popcorn ceilings)
- Wall cladding and fibro sheeting
- Vinyl floor tiles and linoleum
- Pipe insulation and roofing materials
When these materials are disturbed—whether through cutting, sanding, drilling, or demolishing—they can release harmful asbestos fibres into the air. Inhaling these fibres can cause long-term respiratory problems, which may not show symptoms until years later.
2. Have Your Home Tested for Asbestos
Before you begin any renovation or strip-out work, it’s essential to have your home tested for asbestos, especially if it was built before 1990. A licensed asbestos assessor will inspect your property and take samples of suspected materials for laboratory testing. These tests will confirm whether asbestos is present and, if so, identify the specific materials that contain it.
If asbestos is found, the assessor will guide you on the safest course of action, which may involve professional removal. If the asbestos-containing materials are intact and undisturbed, it may be safer to leave them in place rather than remove them. Always follow professional advice regarding the next steps.
3. Hire a Licensed Asbestos Removalist
If your renovation involves disturbing asbestos-containing materials, you must hire a licensed asbestos removalist to handle the job. DIY asbestos removal is not only dangerous but also illegal in many jurisdictions. Licensed professionals have the expertise, training, and equipment required to safely remove and dispose of asbestos materials.
A licensed removalist will:
- Assess the area for asbestos-containing materials
- Develop a removal plan in compliance with WorkSafe Victoria regulations
- Use appropriate containment measures, such as sealing off the work area with plastic sheeting
- Wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as respirators and disposable coveralls
- Properly dispose of asbestos waste at an approved facility
Choosing a licensed asbestos removalist ensures that the removal is carried out safely and that all legal requirements are met.
4. Containment and Isolation During Removal
During the asbestos removal process, it is crucial to contain the work area to prevent asbestos fibres from spreading throughout the home. A licensed asbestos removalist will implement strict containment measures, which may include:
- Sealing off the area: Using plastic sheeting to isolate the asbestos removal zone from the rest of the property.
- Negative air pressure: Creating negative air pressure in the containment area to prevent the escape of asbestos fibres. This is typically achieved by using specialised air filtration systems.
- Warning signs: Posting clear signs around the worksite to notify others that asbestos removal is taking place.
These containment procedures are designed to ensure that asbestos fibres are kept within the designated work area and that the risk of exposure to workers and residents is minimised.
5. Safe Disposal of Asbestos Waste
Asbestos waste is classified as hazardous waste and must be disposed of properly. Licensed asbestos removalists will package and seal the asbestos waste in heavy-duty plastic bags or sealed containers. The waste is clearly labelled to indicate that it contains asbestos.
The sealed waste is then transported to a licensed asbestos disposal facility, where it is safely processed and disposed of in accordance with environmental regulations. Improper disposal of asbestos waste can lead to contamination and legal penalties, which is why proper disposal is critical.
6. Air Quality Testing and Site Clearance
Once the asbestos has been removed, the work area must be thoroughly cleaned and tested for airborne asbestos fibres. Air quality testing is typically conducted by a licensed asbestos assessor to ensure that the environment is safe for re-entry. The assessor will take air samples and send them to a laboratory for analysis.
If the air quality is acceptable, the area will be decontaminated. This involves:
- Cleaning all surfaces in the work area
- Removing any protective sheeting or equipment
- Ensuring that all waste and PPE have been disposed of
Only once the air quality is cleared and the site has been decontaminated will the clearance certificate be issued. This certificate confirms that the area is free of asbestos and safe for further work or habitation.
7. Prevent Future Exposure: Maintain and Monitor
Even after professional asbestos removal, homeowners should continue to monitor their properties for any signs of deterioration in areas that previously contained asbestos. If you choose to leave asbestos materials in place during the renovation, ensure that they are maintained properly. Any damage to asbestos materials—such as cracking, crumbling, or moisture damage—can increase the risk of fibre release.
Regular inspections by a licensed asbestos assessor are recommended, especially for areas where materials such as asbestos-cement sheeting, insulation, or floor tiles are present.
Handling Asbestos Safely During a Renovation
Handling asbestos safely during a renovation is crucial for protecting the health of everyone involved in the project. While it may be tempting to save money by attempting to remove asbestos yourself, the risks involved make it clear that professional intervention is necessary. Hiring a licensed asbestos removalist, getting your property tested for asbestos, and following all safety protocols will ensure that your renovation is carried out safely and in compliance with legal requirements.
If your Melbourne home contains asbestos and you’re planning a renovation, always put safety first. Consult with professionals who are experienced in managing and removing asbestos, and take the necessary steps to protect yourself, your family, and anyone else who may be involved in or near the renovation.
For more information on asbestos testing, removal, and disposal, refer to our Complete Guide to Asbestos Safety During Renovations.
