Asbestos and Public Health

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials in Australia until the late 1980s and early 1990s. While asbestos products are no longer manufactured or installed, asbestos-containing materials may still be present in older homes and buildings.

Asbestos is considered a public health issue because it can pose a serious health risk if fibres are released into the air and inhaled.

Why asbestos is a health concern

Asbestos-containing materials are generally not a health risk when they are in good condition and undisturbed.

However, when asbestos materials are:

  • Damaged

  • Disturbed

  • Weathered

  • Cut, drilled or broken

microscopic fibres can become airborne and easily inhaled. Exposure to asbestos fibres has been linked to serious long-term health conditions.

Because asbestos fibres are invisible to the naked eye and have no smell, people may not realise they have been exposed.

Where asbestos may be found

If your home or building was constructed before 1990, it may contain asbestos in a range of building products, including:

  • Wall and ceiling sheeting

  • Eaves and soffits

  • Roofing and fencing materials

  • Backing to vinyl flooring

  • Pipes and flues

It is not possible to confirm whether a material contains asbestos by visual inspection alone. Laboratory testing is required to verify the presence of asbestos.

Protecting your health

To reduce the risk of asbestos exposure:

  • Do not cut, drill, sand or disturb suspected asbestos materials

  • Avoid pressure washing asbestos-containing surfaces

  • Keep asbestos materials in good condition and sealed where possible

  • Engage a licensed asbestos professional for testing or removal

If you are unsure whether a material contains asbestos, it is safest to assume it does until confirmed otherwise.

Public health responsibilities

Everyone has a responsibility to take reasonable steps to protect the health and safety of others, including family members, neighbours and tradespeople.

This includes preventing or minimising exposure to asbestos fibres during maintenance, renovation or other activities.

Asbestos in the home

For homeowners, asbestos is most commonly encountered during:

  • Renovations

  • Repairs

  • Property maintenance

  • Fence or shed replacement

Before starting any work on an older property, it is strongly recommended that you seek advice or testing to confirm whether asbestos is present.

What to do if you suspect asbestos

If you believe a material may contain asbestos:

  1. Stop work immediately

  2. Avoid disturbing the material

  3. Restrict access to the area

  4. Seek advice from a licensed asbestos assessor or removalist

Improper handling of asbestos can increase the risk of exposure.

Further information and support

For practical guidance on asbestos awareness, health risks and safe management, visit:

Asbestos Awareness 
Department of Health WA 

Asbestos removal and compliance

For information about:

  • Renovations or building works

  • Demolition requirements

  • Approvals and compliance

  • Asbestos removal and disposal requirements

Head to the Asbestos and Building Requirements Page

Asbestos – Building Requirements