Asbestos is a mineral that Australians use for construction projects since 1945. In fact, most household materials come from asbestos. Roofs, tiles and paint have a tinge of such material in them. It is useful, but deadly at the same time.

1. Action Asbestos
(08) 9451 9001
The Silent Killer
that is Asbestos

2. Those who are living in old, dilapidated
houses may want to call in experts instead of
giving their house a makeover themselves.
Chances are, these houses have high
asbestos content.
Asbestos is a mineral that Australians use
for construction projects since 1945. In fact,
most household materials come from
asbestos. Roofs, tiles and paint have a tinge
of such material in them. It is useful, but
deadly at the same time.
Serious illnesses stem from having a direct contact with asbestos. When people inhale asbestos
in large amounts, they are at risk of developing pleural plaques, asbestosis, lung cancer and
mesothelioma. All of these diseases attack the lungs and cause death later on.
Home renovators fall prey to asbestos-related diseases. An article in Medical Journal of
Australia revealed that more than 700 Australians suffer from mesothelioma each year, and
home renovators make up most of the figures. Researchers expect the numbers to go up, as
there are still many who live in old houses that may have high asbestos content.

3. Many people consider asbestos as a silent killer for many reasons. First, it is not
easy to tell if people have asbestos-related diseases. They need to undergo a
medical examination or wait for the symptoms to know if they have illnesses,
which is too late by that time. Second, there is no way of knowing if people come
into contact with asbestos until they get sick. People need to test their materials
to know.
In response to the danger of asbestos usage, Australia banned the mining,
manufacture and use of asbestos in the 1970s. For asbestos removal, they highly
recommend professionals since the process involves comprehensive inspection,
testing and handling. They require people to wear protective gears when dealing
with asbestos. As a matter of fact, people may have to relocate while the removal
process is underway.
The danger that asbestos poses is too serious to ignore. Consulting professionals
before doing home renovations or seeking medical experts may prevent the
effects of asbestos from affecting people.

4. References:
http://www.actionasbestos.com.au/
http://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/sites/SWA/about/Publications/Documents/850/As
bestos%20related%20disease%20indicators%202014.pdf
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/life/weekend-australian-magazine/death-by-
diy/story-e6frg8h6-1226169465274