The characteristics of asbestos resulted in a wide range of industries utilising it in their manufactured materials during the 20th century. Asbestos-Containing Material (ACM) refers to any material, product, or debris that contains over 1% asbestos. In good condition, ACM left undisturbed pose little danger, however if the asbestos fibres are released into the air (through damage, renovation, or wear) and inhaled, they can cause severe medical issues such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer.
Non-Friable asbestos vs Friable asbestos
Friable asbestos is high risk. Friable asbestos can be crumbled, pulverised or reduced to a powder by hand pressure. Non-friable asbestos refers to materials in which asbestos fibres are bound within a product more securely and are not usually released.
How were friable asbestos products used?
The application of friable asbestos in insulation, soundproofing, and fireproofing dates to the 1800s. Houses built in the 20th century might also contain friable asbestos in insulation for boilers and pipes. Talcum powder has been sometimes linked to asbestos contamination; in these cases, the powdered form of the material means that it is friable asbestos that can easily become airborne.
Where might I find non-friable asbestos and is it dangerous?
Non-friable asbestos can be found in building materials such as cement sheeting (fibro), cement mouldings, and vinyl flooring. Untouched and in perfect condition, these materials present little risk. However non-friable asbestos products can become friable when disturbed, damaged, or deteriorated (e.g., hail damage, renovations etc.). It is imperative to take appropriate safety precautions when disrupting any asbestos material.
How can I tell if it’s asbestos or not?
When unsure if a material contains asbestos, it is safest practice to engage a specialist to investigate and manage. If the material in question was manufactured after 1990, it is unlikely to contain asbestos. A specialist will have experience in examining the locations, uses, and characteristics of suspected ACM, as well as proper safe handling proficiency.
Asbestos identification can only be confirmed under microscopic examination. In Australia, all sampling of suspected ACM must be undertaken by a NATA (The National Association of Testing Authorities) accredited laboratory.
How can Survey Services help with Asbestos Containing Materials (ACM)?
We understand the potential risks associated with asbestos and the importance of managing it effectively. Our team of highly skilled professionals is trained to conduct thorough asbestos surveys, inspections, testing and management to identify and assess any presence of ACM within your premises.
With over 30 years’ experience in the industry, and partnership with a NATA accredited laboratory, we can ensure you project complies with all guidelines and legislation whilst being carried out safely and efficiently.
FAQs
What products today still include asbestos?
Building interior
- Wall panels
- Ceiling panels
- Flooring (including carpet) underlay
- Vinyl floor tiles
- Splashback and tile backing
- Insulation for heating appliances (stoves, heaters etc.)
Building exterior
- Walls
- Fences
- Roofs
- Pipes
- Gutters
- Eaves
Other Areas
- Contaminated soil
- Construction waste
- Textured paint
- Outdoor buildings (Sheds, garages, carports, garden rooms, outdoor toilets etc.)
- Animal shelters (e.g., dog kennels)
- Electrical switchboard backing
Why did we use asbestos?
Fire Resistance
Asbestos was utilised for its fire-resistant chemical properties; it can be non-flammable and non-combustible when in perfect condition. The versatility of flexible asbestos fibres as a textile also enabled it to be incorporated into a variety of materials such as cement, insulation, home appliances, and fire-resistant fabrics.
Durability
Asbestos fibres can be extremely durable, even under exposure to the elements.
Non-Conductive
The resistance that asbestos has to electricity made it desirable for wiring materials.
Friction Resistance
Once asbestos was understood to resist friction well, it was utilised heavily in the manufacturing of vehicles in gaskets, clutch housings, and brake pads and linings. Many cars manufactured prior to 2003 contain parts with asbestos.
Lightweight
The light weight of asbestos fibres made them a desirable additive for many of materials.
Accessible
Abundant, cheap, and easy to mine and manufacture, there were high profits from the production of asbestos containing materials.
Insulative
As well as use in literal insulation, asbestos had uses as a sound absorbing material.