Asbestos
Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous crystalline mineral, found in rock formations. Three main types of asbestos have been mined in Australian, including crocidolite (blue asbestos), amosite (brown asbestos) and chrysotile (white asbestos). Asbestos cement products were commonly manufactured in WA from 1921 to 1987. The use of crocidolite ceased in 1966. Most uses of amosite ceased in May 1984. The use of chrysotile asbestos was phased out between 1981 and 1987. Manufacturing of all asbestos products ceased in 1987.
Asbestos cement products were commonly used in buildings during the establishment of Exmouth and as a result, many current buildings may contain asbestos. Asbestos is a hazardous material. Its removal and disposal is legislated by the Health (Asbestos) Regulations 1992 and Worksafe WA. Strict requirements for the removal of asbestos must be followed. Please go to the Department of Health and the Worksafe websites for further information. There is also a handy online course developed by Cancer Council Australia which helps to get to know asbestos. Please click this link for Asbestos removal and disposal information sheet.