SPASA warns of asbestos in old marblesheen swimming pools

SPASA has sent a warning to pool builders to be aware of asbestos in older swimming pool surfaces.

A small number of older swimming pools built before 1980 may have had minute levels of asbestos added to the marblesheen interior when it was first applied. The addition of asbestos to the marblesheen may have been used to provide for a more pliable interior during the application process as well as delivering a smoother finish to the end product.

Pools of this age are nearing the time where homeowners are looking to have them renovated.

SPASA NSW & ACT advises builders and technicians to approach all older marblesheen pools and their surrounds with the possibility that asbestos may have been used in or around the pool environment. If unsure, pool builders and technicians should seek expert advice from a licensed asbestos practitioner.

Some SPASA pool builder members have sent samples to NATA-approved laboratories for testing, at a cost of approximately $100 with a 24-hour turnaround.