Wingecarribee Shire Council warns homeowners about the risk of asbestos and to make sure they dispose of it correctly

Council's Group Manager of Planning, Development and Regulatory Services, Nicholas Wilton said asbestos was still widely used in building materials up until the mid-1980s.

"Even though the manufacture and use of asbestos was banned several decades ago, it can still be found in many houses across our shire that were built up until this period," he said.

Some of the household items where asbestos-related products may be found in pre-1987 built homes include flooring under carpets, linoleum and vinyl tiles, behind wall and floor tiles, in cement floors, internal and external walls, ceilings and roof sheeting, eaves, garages, around hot water pipes, fences, chook sheds and dog kennels.

Mr Wilton emphasised asbestos removal was a job best handled by a licensed professional.

"It's important to remember that only a licensed asbestos removalist can remove asbestos greater than 10 square metres in size," he said.

"That's about the same size as a small bathroom.

"As a general rule council suggests anyone undertaking any removal of asbestos to engage a licensed contractor to undertake the job."

Research undertaken by the Australian Government showed that one-in-five home renovators had encountered asbestos, but only half sought any kind of professional help to deal with it.

The same research revealed a third of renovators admitted to incorrectly disposing of asbestos, including in their own household bin or their neighbour's bin.

"Proper disposal of asbestos is vitally important," Mr Wilton said.

"Apart from the considerable cost to safely clean up incorrectly disposed of or deliberately dumped asbestos, such acts increase the risk of exposure not only for the renovator but for the wider community.

"Asbestos-related diseases still contribute to some 4000 deaths each year across the country and that's why council continues to have a zero-tolerance approach to illegal dumping."

Penalties for dumping include on-the-spot fines of up to $4000 and magistrates can issue penalties of up to $5,000,000 for corporations and $1,000,000 and/or seven years imprisonment for individuals.

Asbestos Awareness Week will be held across the country from November 23-29.

Visit www.asbestossafety.gov.au to learn more about asbestos safety.

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