Renovating older properties around Frankston and surrounding areas is exciting but comes with risks. One of the biggest dangers is asbestos. If your property was built before the 1990s, asbestos may be present in walls, ceilings, or floors. Phase One Asbestos specialises in asbestos management during strip outs and pre-demolition checks. Our goal is to keep your project safe and compliant with asbestos regulations.
What is a Strip Out?
A strip out is the removal of internal, non-structural elements. This can include:
- Walls
- Ceilings
- Flooring
- Fixtures and fittings
These projects often take place in older buildings. However, many of these buildings contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). During a strip out, these materials can be disturbed. This releases asbestos fibres into the air. If inhaled, these fibres can lead to serious health risks.
The Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos exposure is linked to several serious diseases. These include:
- Mesothelioma: A type of cancer affecting the lining of the lungs and abdomen.
- Asbestosis: Lung scarring caused by long-term exposure to asbestos fibres.
- Lung cancer: The risk increases with asbestos exposure, especially for smokers.
These diseases can take decades to develop. However, even small exposures can lead to severe health effects. Therefore, managing asbestos in strip outs is critical.
Common Areas Containing Asbestos During Strip Outs
Asbestos is often hidden in many parts of older buildings. Common areas where asbestos may be found during strip outs include:
- Walls and Ceilings: Asbestos sheeting was commonly used for walls and ceilings.
- Flooring: Older vinyl tiles and linoleum often contain asbestos.
- Roofing: Asbestos cement sheets were used for roofing and external cladding.
- Insulation: Pipes and ductwork were often insulated with asbestos materials.
Disturbing these materials during a strip out can release asbestos fibres. Once airborne, these fibres are easily inhaled, leading to long-term health issues.
Why You Need a Pre-Demolition Asbestos Check
Before starting a strip out or demolition, it is essential to have an asbestos inspection. At Phase One Asbestos, we provide comprehensive pre-demolition asbestos checks. These inspections are designed to identify any ACMs in the building. Our team will test materials, assess risks, and provide an asbestos removal plan if needed.
Our process includes:
- Inspection: We identify asbestos in the building and assess its condition.
- Testing: Suspected ACMs are tested in accredited laboratories.
- Removal: We remove asbestos using strict safety protocols.
- Clearance: Once asbestos is removed, we issue a clearance certificate.
The Importance of Compliance
In Victoria, asbestos removal is heavily regulated. Only licensed professionals can remove and dispose of asbestos. DIY asbestos removal is illegal and dangerous. If asbestos is not managed correctly, you could face legal penalties and endanger those on-site.
Phase One Asbestos is fully licensed and compliant with all Victorian asbestos regulations. We ensure that all asbestos is safely managed, removed, and disposed of at certified facilities. Our team follows the latest safety protocols to protect you, your workers, and future occupants.
Why You Should Never Attempt DIY Asbestos Removal
Removing asbestos yourself is dangerous and illegal. When asbestos is disturbed, fibres become airborne and spread throughout the property. Even minimal exposure can lead to serious health problems in the future. Improper asbestos removal can contaminate the entire building, leading to higher costs and increased health risks.
Phase One Asbestos uses industry-leading techniques to ensure asbestos is removed safely. This includes:
- Air monitoring to ensure no fibres are released.
- Sealed work areas to prevent the spread of asbestos.
- Licensed disposal to guarantee safe waste management.
Trust Phase One Asbestos for Your Strip Out
When planning a strip out, it’s vital to address potential asbestos risks. At Phase One Asbestos, we specialise in managing asbestos during renovation strip outs. Our services include inspections, safe removal, and post-removal certification to ensure that your project is safe and compliant.
Our Services Include:
- Pre-strip out asbestos inspections: Identifying ACMs before work begins.
- Licensed asbestos removal: Safe and professional removal of ACMs.
- Clearance certification: Air monitoring and clearance certificates for compliance.
Keep Your Strip Out Safe
If you are planning a strip out, asbestos management should be your first step. Before any work begins, a proper inspection and removal plan are essential. By working with Phase One Asbestos, you can ensure that your project is free from asbestos risks and compliant with regulations.
Contact us today to book your asbestos inspection or learn more about our services.
See our article on Understanding Asbestos Risks During Strip Outs
