Warning about presence of asbestos in lino and vinyl

27/5/94

Services Minister Graham Kierath has issued a warning on the presence of asbestos in lino and vinyl floor coverings.

Mr Kierath said today that it had become evident through inquiries received by the Department of Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare (DOHSWA) that many people were still not aware of the current methods for removal of these floor coverings.

"DOHSWA has issued several warnings on this subject in the past, but officers from the department are still receiving inquiries," Mr Kierath said.

"DOHSWA are still finding contractors who continue to use power sanders on these floor coverings, but I am also concerned that do-it-yourself home renovators could be exposing themselves to asbestos dust by machine abrading these floor coverings to remove them.

"From the information gathered, the general rule of thumb is that any vinyl or lino floor coverings installed prior to 1987 should be assumed to contain asbestos, and should be removed and disposed of accordingly."

Mr Kierath said that, unless the materials definitely did not contain asbestos - which could only be established by laboratory tests - they should not be touched with power tools, which could generate respirable fibres.

Those requiring laboratory testing of materials should either consult the Yellow Pages or contact DOHSWA for the names of reputable laboratories.

Disposal of flooring materials should be in accordance with the rules governing the disposal of any other asbestos - containing materials, at an approved landfill site.

Inquiries regarding disposal of asbestos should be directed to local government offices or the Health Department's Waste Management section.

"The flooring manufacturers recommend that, where possible, floor coverings should be left in place and the new floor laid over the top," Mr Kierath said.

"But if it must be removed - for instance to renovate wooden floorboards - neither the floor covering nor the backing should be worked on with power tools such as sanders, which could create dust.

"Material in the removal area should remain damped down at all times to avoid the generation of respirable fibres and minimise the risk of contacting asbestos-related diseases."

Media contact:  Brian Coulter  222 9595 or 481 2133