ASBESTOS REMOVAL

DeYoungs are fully licensed by both SafeworkSA and the EPA, to remove and transport cement sheet product that contains asbestos. This developed from a need to remove Asbestos from homes scheduled for demolition, and evolved into a responsive division of the company able to meet the needs of private home renovators, builders, and commercial operators in the southern Adelaide district.

Why is Asbestos dangerous?

Well it’s not the Asbestos itself, but any dust particles that may be released from any products containing Asbestos. The fibres released into the dust can be inhaled and are difficult to remove from the lungs. Significant exposure to any type of asbestos will increase the risk of lung cancer, mesothelioma and other conditions.

Asbestos has been utilised in building products in Australia up until 1986, when its use in the manufacturing process was banned. However, cement sheet products containing Asbestos continued to be used and sold from stockpiles for quite some time after this ban. Cement sheet products containing Asbestos were hailed within the construction industry, as the builders friend over the years due to the versatility and ease of use. So quick and easy to cut, shape, fix, paint, and durable to boot, it’s no wonder that this product is in Australian homes in such abundance.

Typically found in masonary homes as eave lining, cladding for wet areas, and timber frame additions. As a cheap building product, Asbestos containing cement sheet also boomed in coastal areas, making the ideal timber framed holiday shack. Asbestos containing products were also utilised in roofing. Deep Six roofing sheets are commonly seen, although shingles also took their place, predominately on a steeper pitch.

Deep Six sheets were often utilised in fencing applications. In two forms, the first in conjunction with a traditional post and rail fence, and the second as a stand alone fence buried in the ground.

The removal process

In South Australia, it is mandatory for any professional removal of more than 10 square metres of non-friable (cement sheet) product to be undertaken by a licensed Asbestos removal company. Approval needs to be obtained from SafeworkSA prior to works commencing, and the Asbestos removal area must be scrutinised by air monitors set in place by an independent company throughout the duration of works. A physical barrier must be created to isolate the Asbestos removal area. This must also have the appropriate warning signs to ensure that nobody enters the site without the correct personal protective equipment.

It is vital that anyone involved in the removal of Asbestos be protected. The use of the appropriately rated respirator, and disposable overalls is a must.

The correct manner for removal of any cement sheet product containing Asbestos is to maintain the integrity of the sheet wherever possible. Breathing Asbestos dust is the danger, and this is released when the cement sheet is broken. Asbestos in its bonded form of cement sheet poses no threat, and when in good condition, can be safely left alone. Asbestos fibres that may be present in cement sheet products, cannot be seen by the naked eye, and must be tested with a stereobinocular microscope. Unless the product in question has been labelled that it contains no Asbestos, the only way to be sure if it does have Asbestos is to have it tested.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral found in the surface of the earth. It contains strong fibres that have excellent durability, fire resistance and insulating properties. Asbestos fibres are 50 to 200 times thinner than a human hair, can float in the air for a long time, can be invisible to the naked eye and can be breathed into the lungs.

Having said this, in a bonded form such as cement sheeting, it is a stable product when left alone. Should removal of this product be necessary, this can be done easily and safely provided the correct procedures are adhered to.

For a no obligation, free quote to remove Asbestos, call John on 0438 821010 or email: