Precision in Practice: Asbestos Testing for a Geelong Commercial Site
Asbestos testing is a critical process in maintaining the safety, compliance, and longevity of Australian properties. However, the service’s success heavily depends on thoroughness and accountability, which we at Master Inspections, prioritise with every inspection.
Our work on a recent project in Geelong exemplifies the precision and reliability at the core of our service. Learn more about it below.
Assessment Findings: Asbestos-Positive Wall Cladding and Ceiling Lining
In this project, we conducted a general investigation of interior and exterior surfaces where asbestos use was historically prevalent. We collected samples from multiple wall and ceiling locations and sent them over to our partner NATA-accredited laboratory for analysis.
Results confirmed the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) within the property’s internal wall cladding and ceiling lining.
These findings are consistent with many pre-1990 commercial structures, where asbestos products were routinely used to enhance fire resistance, thermal performance, and structural strength.
Internal wall and ceiling linings were some of the most commonly supplemented building materials because asbestos fibres, when bonded into cement sheets or insulation boards, provided durability and cost efficiency.
Where is asbestos commonly found in older buildings?
In Australia, asbestos-containing materials were a staple in residential and commercial construction from the 1940s through the late 1980s. And while these materials were completely banned from the country in 2003, many of these older buildings still stand to this day.
Beyond internal walls and ceilings, asbestos-containing materials can often be found in:
- Eaves, soffits, and roofing sheets: Commonly made of asbestos cement to resist weathering.
- Vinyl floor tiles and backing adhesives: Often contained asbestos for flexibility and strength
- Pipe lagging and insulation: Used around hot water pipes, boilers, and heaters for heat retention
- Textured coatings and decorative finishes: Such as Artex or “popcorn” ceilings
- Electrical backing boards: Fire-resistant sheeting behind fuse boxes or switchboards
- External wall panels and fencing: Especially in flat-sheet or corrugated forms known as “fibro.”
Understanding the real risk of asbestos-containing materials
Intact and undisturbed asbestos-containing materials are generally safe. The concern arises when these materials are disturbed during maintenance or renovation, and as they wear down with age.
Once the surface integrity of the cladding or lining is compromised through drilling, cutting, or general deterioration, microscopic asbestos fibres can become airborne. Inhalation of these fibres poses severe health risks, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
Confirmed ACM Presence: Understanding Risk Levels and Safety Implications
While asbestos fibres were detected in the sampled materials, they were stable and not currently releasing fibres into the air.
The specific type of asbestos we found was chrysotile or white asbestos. This form is non-friable, meaning the fibres are tightly bound within a solid material such as cement sheeting or textured coatings. However, when the material is cut, drilled, or damaged in any way, it becomes hazardous as the intact asbestos fibres become airborne.
Fortunately, we found no urgent, high-risk, or low-risk asbestos conditions.
Through this assessment, our client will be able to engage qualified removalists and implement appropriate safety measures in line with Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations before any significant danger arises.
Are you in doubt about the safety of your home or commercial property? Book an asbestos testing inspection with Master Inspections now!
We identify potential asbestos materials with precision and provide expert guidance to help you move forward towards full safety and compliance.
