Asbestos was extensively used as a building material in the UK
from the 1950s through to the mid-1980s. It was used for a
variety of purposes and was ideal for fireproofing and
insulation. Any building built before 2000 (houses,
factories, offices, schools, hospitals etc) can contain
asbestos. Asbestos materials in good condition are safe
unless asbestos fibres become airborne, which happens when
materials are damaged.
Did you know that every week on average
- 4 plumbers die
- 20 tradesmen die
- 6 electricians die
- 8 joiners die
...all from this hidden
killer
More information is available from the HSE
website:
Information for householders on removal of
asbestos is available from the
Government website.
If you are a landlord renting out property
then you will find important information regarding asbestos in
rented properties from the
Business Link website.
When asbestos fibres are inhaled they may cause serious disease
such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis and pleural
thickening. It is therefore very important to
avoid asbestos fibres being released into the atmosphere
and subsequently being inhalation.
Asbestos-containing material (ACM) if in good condition does not
necessarily require removal, however, the ACM must be monitored to
ensure the ACM does not deteriorate ie sustain damage.
The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006 places a specific duty
upon businesses to manage
asbestos in their premises and detailed guidance can be
obtained from the Health & Safety Executive website.
Last Updated - 12/03/2013