Elise Archer,Minister for Workplace Safety and Consumer Affairs
Do-it-yourself (DIY) renovators and tradespeople are once again reminded to be asbestos aware this National Asbestos Awareness Week, which commences on 22 November and runs to 28 November 2021.
This year’s theme ‘Think Twice About Asbestos’ challenges complacency by reminding home renovators and tradespeople of the dangers of asbestos.
Asbestos is still present in millions of homes, as well as public and commercial buildings, across Australia. In homes built before 1990, asbestos can still be found anywhere.
The ‘Think Twice About Asbestos’ campaign reminds DIY renovators doing small or large jobs around the house, and tradies on a residential worksite, of the dangers of damaged, disturbed or deteriorated asbestos.
The National Asbestos Awareness Week campaign also promotes the important role of licensed asbestos professionals for both home renovators and tradespeople.
Tradespeople need to call a licensed asbestos professional if they don’t have the equipment, skills, training or licence to handle asbestos.
Asbestos can be easily disturbed when doing building renovations, home improvements and maintenance.
People working on homes built before 1990 can stay safe if they know where asbestos is, if they don’t disturb or damage it, and if they seek professional help to locate, manage or remove it.
For help on how to deal with asbestos, visit the WorkSafe Tasmania website or phone the WorkSafe Tasmania Helpline on 1300 366 322.
