Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once commonly used in building construction. However, it has since been found to be extremely harmful, and its use is now heavily regulated. Despite this, asbestos is still present in many older domestic and commercial buildings.

Read on as we discuss the most common asbestos locations and the importance of Brisbane asbestos inspections in both domestic and commercial buildings.

The Health Dangers of Asbestos

Asbestos is a hazardous material that can cause severe health conditions when inhaled. The tiny fibres can easily penetrate through the small tubes in our lungs, causing inflammation and irritation. Frequent asbestos exposure is known to cause lung cancer and other lung diseases.

There are primarily two types of asbestos: chrysotile and amphibole. About 95 per cent of the asbestos found in homes and offices is made from chrysotile. On the other hand, amphibole is not commonly used in buildings but poses more danger than chrysotile.

Aside from inhalation, asbestos may also affect our health when it comes into contact with our skin or if ingested. However, inhalation still poses a more serious health threat compared to external exposure.

Where is Asbestos Commonly Found?

Several buildings in Brisbane contain asbestos-based construction materials such as flooring, siding, cement, and insulation. Brake pads in vehicles and clutches may also contain this harmful chemical. Unknowingly, we might be exposed to asbestos, especially in buildings built before 2004.

Asbestos is commonly found in these areas of homes or offices:

Ceiling tiles

Acoustic tiles were commonly made of asbestos. Although these don’t pose any health risks when it’s still newly bonded, they can become brittle and crack in time. Particles from these minor breakages can enter the lungs or be accidentally ingested, causing severe health implications. Having ceiling tiles evaluated by a professional Brisbane asbestos inspections specialist is your safest bet.

Pipe insulation

Hot and cold water pipes need insulation to keep them efficient throughout use. Boilers and heating ducts also have some form of insulation blanket to keep them from overheating. These types of insulation materials should be assessed by a Brisbane asbestos inspections specialist and if they contain asbestos, should only be removed by a professional who knows how to do so safely.

Asbestos cement products

Before the regulation of asbestos use in office buildings in 2003, asbestos cement products were popular for construction work. This type of cement was used for cladding, flooring, and roofing. Several pipe works used in drainage and stormwater systems, as well as sewers, contain asbestos. While these cement products are still sometimes used today, the Australian Work Health and Safety Legislation have heavily regulated their usage.

Roofing

Commercial spaces and homes commonly use asbestos cement corrugated sheets and Super 6 sheets.  To correctly identify these types of asbestos roofing, a professional building inspector should assess the materials used for your building’s roofing.

Importance of Identification Asbestos from Your Space

Residential or commercial building owners planning to refurbish or demolish old properties should have an asbestos inspection done before proceeding. Asbestos safety is crucial to those involved in the project and neighbouring properties and protects them from its dangers. Asbestos testing will give you peace of mind that you and your contractors are safe.

Brisbane Asbestos Inspections with QBM

QBM has trained and certified asbestos inspection and reporting professionals with access to NATA-accredited laboratories for asbestos testing. Every QBM professional inspecting and taking samples follows the legislation protocols to ensure quality, safety, and accurate data.

After many years of Brisbane Asbestos Inspections in homes and commercial properties, we at QBM understand that most business owners and homeowners fear the cost of removing asbestos.  However, the long-term health benefits and safety of the people on the property outweigh the cost. It’s a worthy investment to ensure that you and your residents are protected from exposure to the deadly effects of asbestos.

For more information on Brisbane Asbestos Inspections, contact us at QBM today.