ACCC Issues Health Warning on Asbestos in Wall Tiles

THE consumer watchdog has issued a warning about wall tiles containing asbestos that have been sold in Australia.

The tiles, which were imported from China, contain tremolite asbestos, a prohibited hazardous substance, the Australian Competitor and Consumer Commission (ACCC) said today.

While most of the product had been withdrawn, there were fears that some tiles were still available on the market or may already have been installed, the ACCC said.

The tiles are sold under the brand name Snow White and are described as bright white in colour with a quartz-like appearance.

They are made up of a number of pieces glued together to give the appearance of stacked stone.

“The ACCC is working closely with the Customs and Border Protection Service and WorkCover authorities to identify any other sources of the product in the market and to have them withdrawn,” the ACCC said.

NSW WorkCover is advising consumers who may already have the product installed to isolate the area until the tiles have been removed by a licensed asbestos removalist and the area cleared by an occupational hygienist.

Consumers and tradespeople who suspect they have installed Snow White tiles should contact the supplier and NSW WorkCover.

More information can be found at www.workcover.nsw.gov.au