Asbestos was banned in Australia on December 31, 2003, to prevent health risks caused by exposure to asbestos fibres. This article covers asbestos history, including when asbestos was outlawed, the ban, and current regulations.
Asbestos was a material of choice in Australia from the 1880s until its ban in the late 1990s, thanks to its durability and insulating properties. However, the health risks associated with asbestos fibres, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, led to increased regulation and a phased ban on its use. Australia implemented a total ban on asbestos by December 31, 2003, aligning with global efforts to eliminate this hazardous material.
The ban was not unique to Australia; many countries have taken similar actions to protect their citizens from the dangers of asbestos.
In this article, we’re aiming to provide a thorough understanding of asbestos in Australia, from its historical use to current regulations and safe removal practices. Exploring these facets aims to highlight the importance of ongoing vigilance and safety measures in dealing with asbestos.
Asbestos was a cornerstone of Australian industry for much of the 20th century. Its use spanned over 3,000 asbestos products, including construction materials, automotive components, and household items. From the 1920s until the 1990s, asbestos was extensively used in residential buildings across the country, reflecting its widespread acceptance and reliance.
The peak of asbestos use in Australia can be traced back to the early 1900s through the mid-1960s, when it was a common ingredient in building materials due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties. The demand for asbestos-containing materials surged, leading to significant imports and even local asbestos mining, which continued until 1984.
However, as awareness of the health risks associated with asbestos fibres grew, the tide began to turn. The 1980s marked the beginning of a phased approach to banning asbestos, culminating in a complete prohibition by the end of 2003. This shift was driven by mounting evidence of asbestos-related diseases, prompting a reevaluation of its use in everyday products.
Australia’s journey to a complete asbestos ban began in the 1980s when the health risks became undeniable. Initial measures included restricting the use of certain types of asbestos and imposing strict regulations on its handling and disposal. This phased approach allowed industries time to transition to safer alternatives while minimising disruption.
Australia enforced a total ban on all forms of asbestos by December 31, 2003, making its use, manufacture, and importation illegal. This comprehensive ban was a significant step in protecting public health and preventing asbestos-related diseases.
The phased ban reflected a growing recognition of the need to eliminate banned asbestos from all aspects of daily life to safeguard future generations.
Australia’s comprehensive asbestos ban includes several types of asbestos, each with its own unique properties and associated risks. Chrysotile, commonly known as white asbestos, was the most widely used type due to its versatility and strength. This type was prevalent in construction materials and various industrial applications before being banned.
Amosite, or brown asbestos, was another commonly used variety, particularly in insulation products. Known for its heat-resistant properties, it posed significant health risks upon inhalation. Crocidolite, or blue asbestos, was the most dangerous of all due to its fine, sharp fibres that could easily penetrate lung tissue.
The ban also covers other less common types, ensuring that no form of asbestos is legally used in Australia.
The health risks associated with asbestos exposure are both severe and well-documented. Inhalation of asbestos fibres is the primary method of exposure, leading to a range of life-threatening conditions. Among these, asbestosis, lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestos related disease are the most prevalent diseases directly linked to asbestos exposure.
In Wittenoom, one of Australia’s largest asbestos mining sites, the impact of asbestos exposure was stark. Women living in the area experienced higher mortality rates from malignant mesothelioma due to environmental asbestos exposure. Long-term exposure to high levels of asbestos fibres typically leads to serious health issues, often manifesting after a latency period of 20 to 30 years.
Studies have shown excess deaths from lung cancer and pneumoconiosis among those exposed to asbestos in Wittenoom, highlighting the deadly legacy of asbestos mining. These findings underscore the urgent need for stringent regulations and the complete ban on asbestos in Australia, protecting future generations from similar fates.
Today, Australia enforces strict regulations on asbestos to ensure public safety. All six types of asbestos, including chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, actinolite, anthophyllite, and tremolite, are prohibited. These regulations make it illegal to supply, transport, use, or handle asbestos-containing materials without proper authorisation.
Employers must maintain an asbestos register and develop an asbestos management plan if asbestos is present in the workplace. Special training and licensing are mandatory for individuals tasked with removing asbestos, reflecting the material’s hazardous nature. DIY asbestos removal is strongly discouraged due to the significant health risks involved and is often subject to stringent guidelines and regulations.
Many homes built before 1980 still contain asbestos, necessitating professional inspections and proper management to mitigate risks. Asbestos was commonly used in switch-boxes during the 60s and 70s, posing potential dangers even in renovated homes. These regulations ensure that asbestos is handled safely and responsibly, minimizing exposure and protecting public health.
Despite the ban, asbestos is still present in many older homes across Australia. When renovating homes built before 1990, it is crucial to be asbestos aware and take necessary precautions. Workers handling old asbestos materials must be trained, licensed, and adhere to an asbestos management plan to ensure safety.
Suspected asbestos-containing materials in your home should be treated as if they do contain asbestos. The manufacturing of asbestos cement materials ceased in 1987, but these materials can still pose risks if disturbed during renovations. Proper identification and management of legacy asbestos materials and asbestos containing products are essential to prevent exposure and safeguard health.
Asbestos removal is a task reserved for licensed professionals due to the material’s highly toxic nature. The Model Code of Practice outlines safe procedures for asbestos removal, including sealing off work areas and using negative air pressure systems to prevent contamination. Personal protective equipment, such as N-100 or P-100 respirators, is essential for workers dealing with asbestos to protect against inhalation of harmful fibres.
Asbestos waste must be wetted before removal and placed in double-bagged, leak-tight containers for safe disposal. Decontamination procedures are crucial for workers to safely remove contaminated gear and prevent the spread of asbestos outside the work site.
Non-licensed individuals can remove small amounts of non-friable asbestos, provided they are deemed competent and equipped for the task, but professional removal is always recommended.
Wittenoom, once one of Australia’s largest asbestos mining sites, serves as a grim reminder of the industry’s impact. The town’s residents suffered greatly due to environmental asbestos exposure. This tragic legacy underscores the dangers of asbestos mining and the importance of stringent regulations.
Australia imported a staggering 1.5 million tonnes of asbestos between 1930 and 1983, reflecting the scale of the industry’s operations before mining ceased in 1984. The environmental and health impacts of asbestos mining continue to be felt, highlighting the necessity of comprehensive bans and ongoing vigilance to prevent future harm.
The global movement to ban asbestos has gained significant momentum, with the World Health Organisation (WHO) advocating for a worldwide ban since 2005. An international ban on all types of asbestos has been called for by the International Ban Asbestos Secretariat. This organisation was established in 1999. Despite these efforts, a global action plan introduced by the WHO in 2013 was not adopted.
Many countries, including Iceland, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Austria, and Finland, took early action to ban asbestos in the 1980s and 1990s. The European Union achieved a full ban on asbestos across all member states by January 1, 2005. Most OECD countries have prohibited all types of asbestos, though notable exceptions, such as Mexico and the United States, remain.
The International Ban Asbestos Secretariat maintains a list of countries with complete asbestos bans, reflecting the global consensus on the dangers of asbestos.
The story of asbestos in Australia is one of transformation from widespread use to rigorous regulation and total prohibition. Understanding the history of asbestos use, the phased ban, and the health risks involved underscores the importance of these measures. Australia’s strict regulations and ongoing vigilance ensure that asbestos-related diseases are minimised, protecting both current and future generations.
As we reflect on the impact of asbestos, both domestically and globally, it is clear that the fight against asbestos is far from over. Continued awareness, adherence to regulations, and safe removal practices are essential to maintaining public health and safety. By staying informed and proactive, we can mitigate the risks associated with legacy asbestos materials and contribute to a safer environment for all.
If you suspect asbestos in your home, business or workplace, get in touch with Asbestos Australia, we offer asbestos removal services in Melbourne, Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia and we’re here to help you today.
Posted By: Asbestos Australia Removalist
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