General asbestos information
Asbestos fibres are strong and resistant to heat. They have been used in a wide range of building materials frequently as fireproofing. Houses built after 1990 are unlikely to contain asbestos anywhere in the building.
Asbestos materials can release fibres into the air due to the effects of age or due to abrasion. If very high levels of fibres are breathed in there is a risk of lung diseases, including cancer.
The most commonly used asbestos material is asbestos cement. This may be used as corrugated sheets for roofing and flat sheets for wall boarding. Avoid disturbing or damaging asbestos materials, which are in good condition.
Extreme care must be taken when asbestos materials are removed. Work is best carried out by a licensed contractor. Asbestos cement materials can be disposed of locally at special waste disposal sites. Covered skips can be obtained from licensed companies for the safe collection of asbestos cement material.
Asbestos in the workplace
Asbestos found in places of work, will be subject to Health and Safety at Work legislation, including a new duty to manage asbestos, under the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations.
As the owner, occupier or manager of a non-domestic premises that may contain asbestos, you will have a legal duty to either
Further information
Asbestos related information leaflets.
More information on health and safety, including access to free downloadable leaflets, can be found on the health and safety executive website: http://www.hse.gov.uk/. |