ENTHUSIASTS ARE BEING WARNED OF ASBESTOS IN IMPORTED VEHICLES

The Australian Border Force says that motorists need to be vigilant about asbestos in imported vehicles – a deadly material appearing in cars, motorcycles and parts imported by Australian enthusiasts. 

Asbestos was once referred to as the "miracle mineral" for its resistance to heat, fire and many chemicals. However, it is now widely known that exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma – fatal cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, as well as other cancers and lung-related illnesses. 

Now, the Australian Border Force is targeting cars, motorcycles and parts to address the use of asbestos in foreign vehicles. 

According to the border agency, this deadly material has been discovered in a classic Ford Falcon, Chevrolet Corvette and Mazda RX-2 imported from overseas. Although the material has been banned in Australia, it has also been found in brake pads for buggies, electric vehicles and motorcycles.

According to a spokesman for the ABF, it is the responsibility of importers to ensure that asbestos is not used in any parts coming to Australia, including brake linings and gaskets of classic cars.

"It doesn't matter how old the vehicle is, or what type it is – if we suspect it may contain asbestos, we will request assurances from the importer that it doesn't", he says.

"In a number of countries, there are few to no restrictions on the use and supply of asbestos. Local standards in some countries may even classify goods and 'asbestos-free' when low levels of asbestos are actually present. Many products containing asbestos can be ordered on the internet and will often claim to be asbestos-free, even though they have some asbestos content."

"As a result, asbestos can be unintentionally and unknowingly imported to Australia, even in new products."

Products suspected of containing asbestos may be quarantined for inspection at a significant cost to consumers.

9,700 people per year die from asbestos-related cancer.