Dangers of Ceiling Dust
You would be shocked at what is in your ceiling
Recent media coverage has cast a shadow of doubt over insulation and it has been shown that fires are a very real threat. Pump in forms of insulation and insulation batts fitted too close to down lights, fans and electrical fittings, or over old wiring are a very real fire danger. During the Home Insulation Program many untrained and inexperienced installers worked without due care and attention and this has already caused heart break for many families.
Unfortunately even insulation fitted with correct clearances, but without approved down light covers can cause a problem. The dish like environment created by these clearances attract and harbour fluff, leaves, feathers, etc that become fuel for fires when heated up. Old decomposing insulation also poses a threat as it starts to blow around or become moved about by rodents, possums, or even tradesmen, thus settling over electrical fittings. Winter is a particularly bad time for this as we use our lights for longer with the shorter daylight hours.
Fire is not the only hazard in ceiling voids though, another very serious, but not so easy to detect danger is that of toxic chemical residue including lead.
If you want proof, Google “thirty thought starters on ceiling void dust” you will be shocked at what they have found in ceiling dust.
Other health conditions that can be seriously exacerbated by the dust in ceilings are allergies such as sinus, hay fever, asthma, asbestos related illness, and skin disorders. Childhood behavioural problems are often directly related to allergies as well. Ceilings are not air tight and therefore microscopic particles of fibres, mites, and chemicals drift in to your home and permeate your living space. Just imagine if you didn’t vacuum your floors, and under beds and furniture for years what state your home would be in.
Having your ceiling space professionally vacuumed could be a very small investment in your family’s health, safety and peace of mind.