Media release: Be alert to asbestos risks this bushfire season
Be alert to asbestos risks this bushfire season
With the Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Summer 2024 predicting an increased fire risk across much of Australia, the Asbestos and Silica Safety and Eradication Agency (ASSEA) is urging property owners to be vigilant about the dangers of asbestos in fire-damaged properties. Homes built before 1990 are likely to contain asbestos materials, which become dangerous when damaged or disturbed.
CEO Jodie Deakes highlighted the importance of awareness: "Bushfires not only devastate communities but can also disturb asbestos-containing materials, releasing fibres into the air. These fibres pose significant health risks if inhaled. This season, it’s crucial for homeowners to include asbestos safety in their bushfire preparation and recovery plans."
“Cleaning up after a disaster event is significantly more dangerous and more expensive if asbestos is present, and you may find that your insurance doesn’t provide the cover you need.
“You can lower your risk of accidental damage and uninsured costs if you check and plan for the presence of asbestos before disaster strikes and, if possible, have it safely removed,” said Ms Deakes.
The Seasonal Bushfire Outlook outlined by the National Council for Fire and Emergency Services highlights drier conditions across southern and eastern Australia, with above-average temperatures priming the landscape for bushfires. Communities must be prepared to manage the added risk of asbestos exposure if their properties are damaged.
Key Safety Precautions
Do not disturb debris: Fire-damaged materials, including asbestos, can become airborne when moved, increasing exposure risks.
Engage professionals: Licensed asbestos removalists and assessors should handle clean-up efforts to ensure safety.
Avoid exposure: If asbestos contamination is suspected, avoid entering the property until it has been inspected and declared safe by authorities.
Bushfires can cause asbestos-containing materials to crack, break, or spall, releasing fibres into the environment. These materials often remain in debris after the fire, posing the highest risk during clean-up.
Public Call to Action
Plan ahead: Check whether your insurance policy covers asbestos-related incidents and incorporate asbestos safety into bushfire preparation and recovery plans.
Seek professional help: Contact state authorities or professional contractors for property assessment.
Stay informed: Follow updates from local fire and emergency services and the Seasonal Bushfire Outlook.
ENDS
Media contact: Julia Collins 0429 622 232
Fact sheet – Fire-damaged asbestos: Fact sheet - Fire-damaged asbestos - December 2024.pdf
Fact sheet – Asbestos and Insurance: Asbestos and Insurance | Asbestos and Silica Safety and Eradication Agency (asbestossafety.gov.au)
Seasonal Bushfire Outlook: Seasonal Bushfire Outlook Summer 2024 | National Council for Fire and Emergency Services (www.afac.com.au)
