Asbestos poses significant health risks when its fibres are released into the air and inhaled. To ensure the safety of occupants and workers, asbestos audits are conducted to identify and manage asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in buildings. However, some individuals and businesses make the grave mistake of ignoring their asbestos audit reports, disregarding the potential consequences.
Health Risks and Legal Obligations
There are several health risks associated with asbestos exposure. This includes severe respiratory diseases and even fatal conditions such as mesothelioma. Ignoring an asbestos audit report means neglecting the presence of potentially hazardous ACMs on your property. By failing to address these risks, you jeopardise the health and safety of occupants and violate legal obligations related to asbestos management and removal.
Increased Health-Related Costs
The long-term health consequences of asbestos exposure can be debilitating and require extensive medical care. Treatment costs can be exorbitant, including specialised medical consultations, diagnostic tests, medications, and potential surgeries. Moreover, the emotional toll on affected individuals and their families is immeasurable.
Compromised Property Value and Marketability
Potential buyers and tenants are increasingly cautious about the presence of asbestos, and ignoring an audit report only exacerbates their concerns. Failing to address asbestos issues can lead to difficulties in selling or leasing the property, reduced offers, or even potential lawsuits from buyers or tenants who discover asbestos after the transaction.
Operational Disruptions and Increased Costs
Asbestos removal or encapsulation may require temporary closures, relocation of occupants, or specialised contractors, which can impact business continuity and productivity. Furthermore, as time passes, the deterioration of ACMs can result in the release of asbestos fibres into the air, exacerbating the risk of exposure and necessitating more extensive and costly remediation measures.
Legal and Regulatory Penalties
Failure to comply with asbestos management and removal regulations can result in severe legal and regulatory penalties. Regulatory authorities can issue fines, sanctions, or even criminal charges for non-compliance. These penalties have financial implications and damage your reputation and credibility within your industry.
If you are looking for a reputable asbestos air monitoring provider in Australia, then Global Asbestos Audits is for you. We help our clients ensure the safety of their employees and comply with the ever-changing regulations by giving them detailed asbestos registers and management solutions. Contact us today through our contact page or by emailing info@globalasbestosaudis.com.au to learn more about our services.