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Whenever we discuss the risk posed by asbestos, we
must keep in mind that asbestos fibres can be found
nearly everywhere in our environment (usually at low
levels).
There is now information and cases directly relating
health effects to low-level asbestos exposure, either
from exposures in buildings or from our environment.
Those people working regularly (2 to 3 times per week)
with asbestos containing products in an unsafe manner
and performing tasks – such as drilling, cutting
or making a product safe – are at a higher risk
of contracting an asbestos related disease.
The top five on the list of people most likely to contract
asbestos are:
Carpenters, Miners, Builders’ Labourers, Seagoing
Personnel and Railway Workers.
Did you know that housewives are number 18 on the list
for getting an asbestos related disease?
They inhale the fibres from their partners clothing.
Asbestos related disease do not occur
immediately and there is no fixed level of exposure
that can trigger these diseases. Minimising exposure
is the best safety precaution you can take.
If you would like to know more about how
asbestos fibres can give you an asbestos related disease
please view our FREE online presentation which has a
compelling video animation on the affects of inhaling
asbestos fibres. Simply click this link Asbestos
Awareness and Health Effects.
Where do I go if I think I have an Asbestos Disease?
There are voluntary organisatiosn in most states with
first hand experience with asbestos related diseases.
Contact details in your state please follow the link
to www.asbestosinfo.com.au
If you work in a building built prior
to 1987, Asbestos may have been used in its construction.
You are entitled to see the Asbestos Register. If you
have not been inducted on Asbestos in your workplace
- talk with your Asbestos Register Controller about
training. Follow the link for training that is available
on Identifying
Asbestos in the Home and How To Do It Instruction Guide.
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