Asbestos Floor Tiles
What Are Asbestos Floor Tiles?
Asbestos floor tiles were widely installed throughout Australia from the 1950s until the late 1980s because of their heat resistance properties, strength and long-lasting performance. This type of asbestos product was commonly used in homes, offices, schools, warehouses and public buildings, often alongside other asbestos materials such as ceiling tiles and pipe insulation.
Many older flooring materials, including vinyl tiles, linoleum, sheet flooring, carpet underlay and the black glue used to secure them, may contain asbestos. Because these products were designed to be durable, they can remain in place for decades.
Understanding The Health Risks
Asbestos floor tiles are generally classified as non-friable, meaning the fibres are bonded into the material under normal conditions. However, once the tiles are broken, drilled, cut or lifted incorrectly, asbestos fibres and microscopic asbestos particles can become airborne.
Breathing in airborne asbestos may result in toxic asbestos inhalation, increasing the risk of serious diseases including mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis. These harmful fibres cannot be seen with the naked eye, making asbestos exposure often go unnoticed.
When Should Asbestos Floor Tiles Be Removed?
Removal should be considered when:
- renovating an older property
- replacing damaged floor coverings
- preparing for demolition
- lifting loose or deteriorated flooring
- undertaking work that may disturb asbestos-containing materials
If there is any uncertainty, it is important to first determine whether asbestos is present before work begins.
