Table of Contents

How to Recognise Asbestos?

Recognising asbestos requires a keen eye for detail, an understanding of common building materials from the mid-20th century, and an awareness of locations where it was frequently used. While visual identification alone is unreliable and should never be the sole basis for action, knowing the potential forms, textures, and places asbestos might lurk can prompt further investigation by qualified professionals.

A Visual Guide to Potential Asbestos-Containing Materials

The key to spotting potential asbestos lies in understanding where and when it was commonly used. Asbestos, prized for its fire-resistant and insulating properties, was a staple in construction from the 1930s to the late 1990s, although its use peaked between the 1950s and 1980s. Keep in mind that visual inspection is not a definitive test. Any material suspected of containing asbestos should be tested by a certified professional.

Common Suspects

Asbestos Cement: This is perhaps the most readily identifiable form. It often appears as corrugated roofing sheets, flat sheeting used for walls and ceilings (particularly in garages and sheds), or drainpipes. Asbestos cement is typically grey or off-white and has a brittle texture. The surface can be pitted or have a fibrous appearance, especially when weathered. Look for markings indicating manufacturer and asbestos content, although these are often faded or absent.
Sprayed Coatings: Commonly used for fireproofing structural steel and insulating walls and ceilings, sprayed asbestos coatings can appear as a thick, textured, and often uneven surface. They can range in colour from white or grey to brown or even blue-grey. These coatings are friable, meaning they can be easily crumbled by hand pressure, releasing fibres into the air. Friable asbestos materials pose the highest risk.
Thermal Insulation: Asbestos was frequently used to insulate pipes, boilers, and heating systems. This insulation might appear as a soft, fibrous lagging, a hard casing, or a rope-like material wrapped around pipes. Colours can vary from white or grey to brown or even blue, depending on the type of asbestos used and any added dyes. Damaged or deteriorating insulation is a significant concern.
Floor Tiles: Asbestos floor tiles are typically 9-inch or 12-inch square tiles, often found in older homes and buildings. They may contain asbestos fibres to increase durability and fire resistance. While generally considered low-risk when intact, sanding, breaking, or removing these tiles can release asbestos fibres.
Textured Coatings (Artex): Often used on ceilings and walls to create decorative patterns, Artex and similar textured coatings frequently contained asbestos. While generally safe when undisturbed, sanding or scraping these surfaces during renovations can release fibres.
Gaskets and Seals: Asbestos gaskets and seals were used in a wide range of applications, from boilers and pipe flanges to car engines. These materials are typically dense and fibrous, and may be found in older equipment.

Identifying Age and Location

Knowing the age of a building is crucial. Structures built before 2000 are more likely to contain asbestos. Focus your attention on areas where asbestos was commonly used:

Basements: Pipes, boilers, and insulation.
Attics: Insulation, roofing materials.
Garages and Sheds: Roofing sheets, wall panels.
Bathrooms and Kitchens: Floor tiles, textured coatings.
Heating and Plumbing Systems: Insulation, gaskets.

The Limits of Visual Identification and the Importance of Testing

It’s essential to reiterate that visual identification is unreliable. Many materials can mimic the appearance of asbestos-containing materials. The only way to definitively confirm the presence of asbestos is through laboratory testing.

If you suspect a material contains asbestos, do not disturb it. Contact a licensed asbestos abatement professional to collect a sample and have it analyzed. Attempting to take a sample yourself can release asbestos fibres and pose a health risk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

FAQ 1: What is asbestos, and why is it dangerous?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral composed of strong, flexible fibres that are resistant to heat, chemicals, and electricity. Its durability and fire-resistant properties made it a popular building material for much of the 20th century. However, when asbestos fibres are inhaled, they can become lodged in the lungs and cause serious health problems, including asbestosis (scarring of the lungs), lung cancer, and mesothelioma (a rare cancer of the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart).

FAQ 2: If I suspect asbestos, what should I do first?

The first and most important step is to avoid disturbing the material. Do not attempt to remove it yourself. Contact a licensed asbestos abatement professional for testing and, if necessary, removal. They will have the expertise and equipment to handle asbestos safely.

FAQ 3: What kind of professional can test for asbestos?

You need to hire a licensed asbestos inspector or consultant. These professionals are trained to identify potential asbestos-containing materials, collect samples safely, and send them to an accredited laboratory for analysis. Ensure they provide written documentation of their qualifications and insurance.

FAQ 4: How is asbestos testing performed?

An asbestos inspector will carefully collect a small sample of the suspected material, taking precautions to minimize fibre release. The sample is then sent to an accredited laboratory for analysis using Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) or Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), which can identify the type and concentration of asbestos fibres.

FAQ 5: Is it safe to live in a house with asbestos?

If the asbestos-containing materials are in good condition and undisturbed, they generally pose a low risk. The danger arises when asbestos fibres are released into the air due to damage, deterioration, or disturbance during renovations. Regular inspections are recommended to monitor the condition of asbestos-containing materials.

FAQ 6: What are the different types of asbestos?

There are six main types of asbestos, divided into two categories:

Serpentine asbestos: Chrysotile (white asbestos) – the most commonly used type.
Amphibole asbestos: Amosite (brown asbestos), Crocidolite (blue asbestos), Tremolite, Anthophyllite, and Actinolite. These types are generally considered more hazardous than chrysotile.

FAQ 7: What does “friable” asbestos mean?

Friable asbestos refers to materials that can be easily crumbled or reduced to powder by hand pressure, releasing asbestos fibres into the air. These materials pose the greatest risk because they readily release fibres. Sprayed-on insulation and some types of pipe lagging are examples of friable asbestos.

FAQ 8: What are the regulations regarding asbestos removal?

Asbestos removal is heavily regulated to protect workers and the public. Regulations vary depending on the jurisdiction, but generally, licensed asbestos abatement professionals must perform removal work following strict protocols. These protocols include proper containment, personal protective equipment (PPE), and disposal procedures.

FAQ 9: Can I remove asbestos myself?

In most jurisdictions, it is illegal to remove asbestos yourself, especially friable asbestos. Even if it is technically legal, it is strongly discouraged due to the health risks and the potential for improper handling and disposal. Always hire a licensed professional.

FAQ 10: How much does asbestos removal cost?

The cost of asbestos removal can vary widely depending on the size and complexity of the job, the type and amount of asbestos, and the location. Expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Get quotes from multiple licensed asbestos abatement professionals before making a decision.

FAQ 11: How should asbestos waste be disposed of?

Asbestos waste must be disposed of in a designated landfill that accepts asbestos. It must be properly sealed in labelled bags or containers to prevent fibre release during transport and disposal. Never dispose of asbestos waste in regular trash.

FAQ 12: Where can I find more information about asbestos?

You can find more information about asbestos from government agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Local health departments and asbestos abatement associations can also provide valuable resources and information.