Asbestos News

Builders and renovators have been carelessly dumping deadly asbestos into bins and open spaces in Geelong, Australia, the Geelong Advertiser reports.

The issue has become so serious that city councilors will be asked to consider tougher policies to combat the problem, according to the news provider.

Geelong Trades Hall Council secretary Tim Gooden said the building material was prevalent throughout the city and that more safety measures were necessary to protect both residents and construction workers.

"There is no safe level of asbestos," Gooden told the news source. "When the fibers get into people's lungs, there is no way for the body to clear them, and that can be fatal."

Gooden said that the unsafe removal and improper dumping techniques were the result of builders trying to cut corners, as the process can cost approximately $5,000. The secretary added that the best way to crack down on the builders was to notify WorkSafe of all planning permits, which would allow inspectors to catch them in the act.

Deadly diseases such as mesothelioma, asbestosis and lung cancer are caused by exposure to asbestos.