SafeWork SA is warning home renovators looking to tackle a DIY project this Easter long weekend to be aware of the deadly danger posed by asbestos still present in thousands of South Australian homes.
The article on the SafeWork SA website states that SafeWork SA is urging DIY home renovators to be extra cautious this Easter long weekend, highlighting the ongoing dangers of asbestos still present in many South Australian homes, especially those built before the mid-1980s.
Even seemingly minor tasks, such as drilling holes to hang pictures, can release hazardous asbestos fibers.
Rise in Asbestos Removals
Asbestos use was banned in 2003, but older buildings still contain large amounts of asbestos containing materials (ACM).
From 2019 to 2024, asbestos removal notifications in SA rose by 57% (from 3,708 to 5,848).
In 2024 alone, 642,666m² of asbestos was removed, over half from residential properties.
Health Risks
Asbestos-related illnesses result in approximately 4,000 deaths annually in Australia.
Disturbing asbestos during home renovations without proper safety measures poses serious health risks to renovators and their families.
Where Asbestos is Commonly Found
Outdoors:
Roofs, eaves, old fences, sheds, and outbuildings.
Indoors:
Kitchens, bathrooms, laundries, under floor tiles or linoleum.
Safety Recommendations
Know or assume where asbestos might be.
Do not disturb or damage suspected materials.
Use PPE and respirators if removal is attempted.
Avoid sawing, sanding, or drilling asbestos.
Replace or professionally remove damaged material.
Always use a licensed asbestos removalist for friable or large-scale removals.
Dispose safely and legally—do not use regular rubbish bins.
Tools & Resources
Use the “find and identify tool” and residential asbestos checklist (external links provided by SafeWork SA).
Licensed removalist lists and disposal facility locators are also available via the Asbestos and Silica Safety and Eradication Agency.
Key Insights & Discussion Points
1. Long-Term Legacy of Asbestos
Despite a national ban over 20 years ago, asbestos remains a real threat—highlighting how environmental and health legacies of past construction practices persist.
2. DIY Culture vs. Specialist Risk
The rise in DIY projects increases exposure risks. SafeWork SA emphasizes that some jobs, like asbestos removal, shouldn’t be DIY.
3. Public Awareness is Growing, But Caution is Still Needed
The sharp increase in removal notifications suggests greater public awareness, but the frequency of exposure also indicates more homes still contain asbestos.
Source: Deadly asbestos prompts Easter warning for DIY home renovators
