As part of National Asbestos Awareness Month, Council will be holding a free online asbestos information session plus 45-minute house inspections to help inform residents about the dangers of asbestos and learn how to protect themselves from exposure.
Asbestos is a building material that was once used in houses built before 1990. It can pose a significant health risk if the tiny fibres are inhaled and can lead to serious and life-threatening health conditions including mesothelioma, lung diseases and various forms of cancers.
Houses in Western Sydney are believed to be at the highest risk of containing asbestos due to the 'fibro belt'. This term refers to suburbs where houses were built using highly concentrated asbestos-containing products, specifically before 1990.
Cumberland Mayor Lisa Lake encourages residents to be asbestos ready and learn about the dangers and health risks.
"Australia has some of the highest rates of mesothelioma in the world, with more than 4,000 deaths related to asbestos each year. On average, one in three homes in Australia contain asbestos," said Mayor Lake
"If you have concerns about asbestos in your home, are not sure how to identify it or remove it, I encourage you to sign up to the free online information session or book a house inspection, so that you can prevent any harmful exposure of asbestos to you and your families."
Council's free information session will teach participants how to safely identify, remove and dispose of asbestos in the home, meanwhile the free household inspection will consist of a visual assessment conducted by occupational hygienist specialists, to help residents understand where asbestos is in their home.
Council has been running asbestos awareness campaigns and collection programs since 2013. Council also offers an ongoing free asbestos collection for residents.
To find out more information on asbestos visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/asbestos-awareness-month
