Where may I find asbestos in my house or workshop?
Diagram of a house depicting the typical locations where asbestos can be found in the home.
Asbestos materials may be found in the following:
- asbestos ceiling tiles
- asbestos cement sheet
- asbestos roof tiles and eaves
- cement sheet walls – including brick cladding
- moulded products such as flues, downpipes, guttering, water and sewerage
- door seals on ovens
- electrical switchboards
- fire blankets
- vinyl floor tiles
- lagging and jointing using tape and rope
- paint – typically industrial epoxy
- sprayed insulation
- Tilux sheeting in place of ceramic tiles in bathrooms
- carpet underlay
- tile backing
- putty
- lift shafts
Asbestos was also commonly used in the manufacture of brake disc pads.
The most common places that asbestos is found in homes is in the wet areas. For example, cladding behind showers, sinks, toilets and in laundry areas.
Information and links to the new work health and safety laws that commenced in Tasmania on 1 Jan 2013 can be found via the following link.
Legislation and codes of practice
It is very difficult to identify asbestos by looking at it. If you are uncertain about what a substance is, you should treat it as though it contains asbestos. The only way to be certain is to have a sample analysed by a laboratory. A licensed asbestos removalist or occupational hygienist could also help with identification. Use the search facility for locating a Licensed Asbestos Removalist in your area.