Recent reports of asbestos exposure at the nation’s national broadcasting network, the ABC, have highlighted the real and ongoing danger presented by asbestos in Australia, and how it can affect workers in all industries.
Slater and Gordon Practice Leader in Asbestos and Dust Diseases, Emily Archer, said that asbestos is too often brushed off as a danger of the past.
“Although it’s been banned in Australia for over 20 years, asbestos still poses a significant threat to homeowners, workers, and the general public.”
“Banning something doesn’t change the fact that it was still installed in our homes and buildings.”
“Often, people think asbestos exposure is limited to home renovators tearing down walls or warehouse employees handling dusty materials. However, something as innocuous as a tear in an old ceiling can expose hundreds to asbestos,” Ms. Archer said.
According to a report by The Age, more than 550 employees at two Melbourne ABC studios are listed in a national asbestos register regarding potential exposure at workplaces in Elsternwick and Melbourne’s CBD.
While the CBD studio in Broadcast House ceased operations in the late 1980s, the Elsternwick studio operated until 2017 – nearly 15 years after the national ban. Sadly, at least four ABC employees have died from asbestosis or mesothelioma in relation to their potential exposure in these studios.
“This exposure highlights how prevalent asbestos still is in this country, particularly in older buildings. While great efforts have been made to safely remove asbestos from our workplaces and homes, the sad truth is that it’s still out there in massive quantities,” Ms. Archer said.
A 2022 report by the Victorian Government ‘In The Home’ outlined that approximately 1 in 3 homes in Australia contain asbestos products, and that’s not including workplaces such as warehouses or offices.
“Just because we want asbestos out of our lives, it doesn’t mean that it is. Employers have a duty of care to their employees to ensure a safe workplace free from hazards, especially in older buildings where asbestos is more likely to be present.
“If you work in an older building, particularly if it’s in poor condition, be sure to raise any concerns with your employer or the property owner. They are legally obligated to ensure a safe and asbestos-free environment and can organise a licenced asbestos removalist to inspect the building” Ms. Archer said.