Southampton City Council fact sheet
What is asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral that is resistant to acids, alkalis fire and heat. It also has a high tensile strength and it is a good thermal and electrical insulator. Because of these unique properties it was added to a wide range of building products within the construction industry. There are three main types of asbestos commonly found in the UK: chrysotile (white asbestos), amosite (brown asbestos) and crocidolite (blue asbestos). Asbestos cement is classified as a bonded asbestos material as the fibres are bound in a cement matrix. Asbestos cement commonly contains 10-15 per cent white asbestos. It can be found as corrugated or flat sheets as well as moulded asbestos products, such as flues, gutters and downpipes. Other bonded asbestos products include roof tiles and floor tiles.
Why is asbestos dangerous?
All types of asbestos are catergorised as class 1 carcinogens, meaning that they are known to cause cancer in humans. When asbestos containing materials become damaged the fibres are released into the air and they enter your body when you breathe. Repeated, long term, exposure to high levels of asbestos fibres can lead to the development of an asbestos-related disease such as lung cancer, asbestosis or mesothelioma.
Should I remove bonded asbestos products myself?
You do not have to use a licensed contractor to remove bonded asbestos products. However, you should follow a safe working method to minimise the release of fibres and to reduce the risk of exposure to yourself, neighbours or members of the public.
What precautions should I take when removing bonded asbestos?
§ All people not involved with the work must be excluded from the work area.
§ If working outdoors, ensure that you close all windows and doors if the asbestos you are removing is in close proximity to your house. It is also advisable to notify any neighbours so they have the opportunity to close their windows as well.
§ If working indoors, close doors to prevent the spread of dust and open windows to ventilate the room.
§ Anyone in the work area should wear a disposable respirator and overalls. Ensure that the respirator has an FFP3 filter that is suitable for use with asbestos. These are available from any builder’s merchants.
§ Keep the asbestos damp by spraying it with water prior to removal / handling. This will suppress any dust / fibres that may be released.
§ Try to avoid breaking the asbestos.
§ Asbestos sheets must be wrapped securely in plastic sheeting prior to disposal. Any small or broken pieces of asbestos must be double-bagged and secured with tape to ensure no dust escapes during transit.
Where can I dispose of bonded asbestos products?
Asbestos is classed as hazardous waste and you have a duty of care to ensure that is disposed of correctly. Do not put asbestos in the dustbin. Asbestos waste must be taken to Netley Recycling Centre, Grange Road.
Disposal of bonded asbestos waste is free for domestic householders. However, you must pre-book by telephone before transporting the asbestos to ensure that the dedicated asbestos container has spare capacity and to confirm that the items are packaged correctly. You can contact the site on 023 80406182.
Please be advised that the site only accepts small quantities of asbestos. Quantities must not exceed 15 sheets, or be greater than 120cm by 60cm in size.
Fibrous asbestos products, such as lagging and insulation board, will not be accepted at any Hampshire recycling centre.
As of 14 February 2008, commercial type vehicles being used by householders must have a permit to use a waste recycling centre. This has been introduced to ensure only household waste (and not trade waste) is deposited at these sites. The permit is free and is obtainable from Hampshire County Council on 0845 603 5634 or visit: www.hants.gov.uk/recycling. If you are transporting the waste in your own car, or if you have a trailer that is under 1.8m x 1.2m, (which is towed behind a car) then you do not require a permit.
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Last updated: 27 September 2010