There is no known safe level of asbestos exposure.
Living or working with asbestos, or just being around it, is low risk as long as the asbestos is in good condition and not disturbed.
Asbestos fibres are a health risk if they become airborne and are breathed in. This is the most common way asbestos enters your body.
Remember the golden rule: if you think it might be asbestos, treat it like it is.
Asbestos exposure can occur in the home or in the workplace.
If asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, dust particles may be released into the air. You could inhale asbestos fibres.
The more fibres you breathe in, the higher your risk. Even if you’ve already been exposed to asbestos, it’s still important to protect yourself from further exposure.
If you think it is asbestos, treat it like it is.
Never cut or drill into materials that you suspect contain asbestos. This can release dust and asbestos fibres into the air.
Use a licensed asbestos assessor to confirm it’s asbestos, and a licensed asbestos removalist to remove it safely.
If asbestos-containing materials are stable material and in good condition, they are a low health risk. You may be able to paint or cover asbestos safely. Asbestos can deteriorate over time so it may need to be removed later.
