Fences

As with other non-friable asbestos products, if an asbestos fence is in good condition and left undisturbed it presents no known health risks.

However, if your fence is damaged or badly weathered the asbestos may become friable and should be removed by a licensed asbestos removalist.

Fencing is administered by your local council. Read through the Fences and the Law booklet for information on the processes involved in removing an existing fence.

Insulation

Insulation materials in house roof spaces are usually fibreglass, rockwool, cellulose or foam. Very few houses in South Australia contain loose asbestos insulation in the roof space. If you are unsure, have your insulation inspected and tested by a licensed assessor.

Roofing and sheeting

You should regularly inspect the condition of asbestos roofs and other sheeting to ensure they have not been damaged, especially after severe storms and hail. Due to the fragile nature of asbestos roofing, it is recommended that you consult with a licensed asbestos assessor or removalist.

If you need to inspect the roof, put planks down so you do not have to walk directly on the roofing. Ensure you use fall protection and remember to wear appropriate respiratory protection and disposable coveralls.

Roofing that has weathered, is structurally unsound or is no longer waterproof should be replaced. Coating any weathered asbestos cement products is not recommended.

If you have asbestos roofing and you are cleaning your gutters, be aware that asbestos fibres may have collected in the gutter after rain. Before removing the debris, follow safety precautions, including wetting the debris before handling it.

Rainwater tanks

Rainwater tanks and catchments should also be well maintained.

Providing rainwater tanks and asbestos roofing are well maintained, SA Health advises that it is safe to drink rainwater off an asbestos roof.

Asbestos has only been shown to cause health effects if the fibres are inhaled. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral and as such background levels are found in rainwater.

See the SA Health's Rainwater page for more information on your health and rainwater tanks.

Millboard lining

Asbestos-containing millboard was once widely used in the construction industry due to its flame-resistant properties, and commonly used to line compartments containing heat or spark-producing electrical equipment. In particular, asbestos-containing millboard surrounded reheating banks or coils throughout the ductwork of air conditioning units.

Millboard lining, as well as other suspected asbestos-containing components of old heating and air conditioning systems, should be identified  as containing asbestos (or assumed to be) and removed using appropriate measures prior to demolition or refurbishment.