Asbestos, a naturally occurring fibrous material, was extensively used in UK construction from the 1950s to the 1980s due to its durability, heat resistance, and fireproof properties. The material’s versatile characteristics made it a preferred choice for various building components.
Risks Associated with Asbestos:
Asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999 due to its link to serious lung-related diseases, especially among workers exposed to it over extended periods. Even minimal exposure can be detrimental, and the associated health issues often develop after years of contact. Attempting asbestos removal independently is strictly discouraged. Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 governs asbestos removal, emphasizing:
- Adequate training for employees likely to encounter asbestos
- Record keeping and management of suspected asbestos materials on premises
- Proper disposal of waste asbestos through licensed carriers
- "Duty to manage" asbestos in non-domestic premises to safeguard occupants' health
- Licensed contractors' involvement for most asbestos work
- Stringent controls for non-licensed asbestos work to ensure safety
Distinguishing Licensed and Non-Licensed Asbestos Removal:
Asbestos removal is categorized into licensed and non-licensed activities, determined by the associated risks. Licensed removal, involving significant hazards, demands specialized contractors. Non-licensed removal, which poses lower risks, necessitates training but not licensing. Examples include cleaning debris with minimal asbestos content, drilling textured coatings, and encapsulating intact asbestos materials.
Types of Asbestos:
Three common asbestos types include:
- White asbestos (Chrysolite): Common and fine-textured, often mixed with tremolite traces.
- Brown asbestos (Amosite): Highly dangerous, primarily used in heat-resistant cement sheets.
- Blue asbestos (Crocidolite): Extremely harmful, easily inhaled due to its fine texture.
Detecting Asbestos:
Asbestos is colorless, odorless, and its fibers are microscopic. Only specialist laboratories can accurately identify its presence through testing.
Overcladding Asbestos and Safety Concerns:
While overcladding may seem a solution for asbestos-containing roofs, it carries risks. Disturbing asbestos releases harmful fibers, potentially causing harm to occupants and increasing structural weight. This approach demands engineering calculations and planning permission due to increased building height.
How Cambridge Roofers Can Assist:
Cambridge Roofers specializes in the removal of non-licensed asbestos roofing products, ensuring safety, compliance, and speed. Our trained workforce ensures the secure handling of asbestos removal projects, enhancing your commercial roofing endeavors.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- A single exposure isn't usually harmful, but preventative measures are vital.
- Asbestos-related diseases stem from prolonged exposure, especially during the 1950s-1980s.
- Asbestos is found in industrial and residential settings, posing various risks.
- Airborne asbestos particles can remain for up to 72 hours.
- Professional testing involves filtering air and microscopic analysis.
- Asbestos can adhere to clothes, necessitating specialized cleaning or disposal.
For further information or inquiries about your commercial roofing project, contact Cambridge Roofers today.
