Dulwich Hill Asbestos Removal

Dulwich Hill, a suburb in the Inner West of Sydney, has a rich history that is unfortunately marred by the widespread use of asbestos in its infrastructure. Asbestos, a once-popular building material known for its heat resistance and insulation properties, was commonly used in the construction of many of Dulwich Hill’s most recognizable landmarks and areas. For instance, the iconic Dulwich Hill Station, built in the late 19th century, and the Dulwich Hill Library, a heritage-listed building, were both constructed during a time when asbestos was a standard building material. Furthermore, many of the suburb’s residential properties, which are predominantly Federation and Californian Bungalow style homes, were built in the early 20th century and are likely to contain asbestos in their walls, ceilings, and roofs.

The presence of asbestos in Dulwich Hill’s infrastructure presents significant health risks and challenges for the community. Asbestos fibres, when disturbed and inhaled, can lead to serious diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Recognizing these risks, local authorities have taken steps to manage and mitigate asbestos-related issues in the suburb. Major schools, such as Dulwich Hill Public School and Dulwich High School of Visual Arts and Design, have undergone asbestos audits and removal works to ensure the safety of students and staff. Similarly, government buildings and historical sites, including the Dulwich Hill Library, have been subject to rigorous asbestos management plans. Despite these efforts, there have been reports of asbestos-related health incidents in the suburb. In 2018, for example, several residents were diagnosed with mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure, prompting renewed calls for comprehensive asbestos removal and public safety measures in Dulwich Hill.