Managing Asbestos Cement Products in Your Home John Howell, Senior Toxicologist, Environmental Health Directorate

Management Process  Identification √  Assessment  Repair and Maintenance  Removal

Assessment  Asbestos cement products are tough & long lasting  But:  Most are about years old  Some are unprotected and exposed to weathering  Some have been physically damaged by soil pressure, vehicles, vegetation, heavy objects, fire  So condition can be quite variable  So there may be health concerns

Basic approach  If is broken, weathered, accessible & prone to disturbance prioritise for action  Fences normally main concern as many still in use, though still low risk  Roofs normally most degraded but less accessible  Painted and sheltered/indoor sheeting normally lowest risk  Consider removal on a planned or opportunity basis

Who Can Help?  DOH and other guidance material  LG EHO advice  DOH Scientific Officer advice  Asbestos Professionals

What Can Be Done?  If in good condition and protected then monitor  If minor damage or weathering then may be repaired and maintained  If in poorer condition, i.e. large cracks and gaps, a number of sheets affected, accessible, prone to disturbance or in doubt then removal is advised  Licensed asbestos removalist is strongly recommended, but they should be monitored

Asbestos Fences - Types of “Tolerable” Damage

“Intermediate” Types of Damage

Definitely Remove!

Maintenance Measures  Handpicking & disposing broken bits  Trimming back disturbing vegetation  Sealing broken edges with outdoors PVA or paint  Filling cracks with outdoor silicone products  Patching small holes with outdoor tape  Painting or PVA sealing sheet surfaces  Replacing damaged panels  Replacing asbestos cement capping  Complete removal by licensed removalist

In Conclusion  Household risks generally very low  But best to be aware of your asbestos situation  Monitor, or take minor or major actions  There are advisory and expert services available

Contacts Environmental Health Directorate Phone: Webpage: tos_and_public_health.pm tos_and_public_health.pm