Asbestos
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous silicate mineral which has been mined and processed. It has been widely used in a variety of building and household products due to its unique properties, which include: high tensile strength, thermal stability and resistance to chemicals and electricity.
There are three main types of asbestos which have been used commercially.
- Crocidolite (often referred to as ‘blue asbestos’)
- Amosite (often referred to as ‘brown asbestos’)
- Chrysotile (often referred to as ‘white asbestos’)
Other forms of asbestos are also found but are much less common – fibrous actinolite, fibrous anthrophyllite and fibrous tremolite.
The wide use of asbestos products led to the import of some 6 million tonnes of asbestos materials into the UK since 1880. However, once the risks to health were determined, controls were gradually introduced and the import of all asbestos is now banned in the UK, with a very few limited exceptions.
It is impossible to avoid exposure to asbestos completely. There is a very low background level of fibres in the atmosphere due to the extensive use of the material. There is no evidence to suggest that exposure to such low levels is detrimental to health. High concentrations of asbestos fibres can be generated during structural alterations, major refurbishment, minor repairs and DIY activity. It is therefore essential to recognised those products which contain asbestos in order prevent unnecessary disturbances.
Remember – If in doubt, do not disturb any material which you are unsure of.
Where is asbestos found in buildings?
Asbestos can be found in a huge variety of building materials.
- Asbestos cement is the most extensively used form of asbestos. This is found commonly on garage/shed roofs, soffits and guttering. Asbestos cement usually contains between 10-25% white asbestos bonded into the cement matrix. Asbestos cement is unlikely to release high levels of fibres and therefore it can usually be removed safely as long as some simple precautions are taken. Please refer to our guidance leaflet for information on how to remove asbestos cement safely.
- Asbestos insulation board is generally used as fire protection in ducts, partitions, soffits and ceiling panels. It usually contains around 30% brown asbestos. It is a much softer material and the fibres are more friable, becoming airborne far more readily than those found in asbestos cement.
- Asbestos lagging is used mainly in thermal insulation of pipes and boilers. It can contain up to 85% asbestos and often includes a mixture of fibres, including crocidolite and amosite.
- Asbestos has also been found in millboard, paper products, gaskets, fire-blankets, brake linings, floor tiles, textured coatings (artex), roof felting and hundreds of other products
Why is asbestos dangerous?
All forms of asbestos are potentially dangerous although research has shown that blue and brown asbestos are significantly more dangerous than white asbestos.
Asbestos which is in good condition and is not disturbed poses no risk to health.
When asbestos materials become disturbed they release fibres which can be inhaled. These fibres may become lodged in the lungs where they remain for years and do not break down. Repeated exposure over many years can lead to the development of an asbestos-related disease.
How should I dispose of asbestos?
The Environment Agency classifies all asbestos containing materials as Special Waste. However, domestic householders are permitted to take small amounts of asbestos waste (originating from their own property) to Netley Recycling Centre, Grange Road, for free disposal.
In order to minimise dust generation all asbestos materials should be thoroughly wetted prior to removal. They should then be wrapped in strong polythene bags/sheets and sealed tight with heavy duty tape before being taken for disposal.
More detailed information leaflets are available on request.
If you have any further questons regarding asbestos then please contact Pollution and Safety by telephone on: 023 8083 2170.
Asbestos Advice for Domestic Householders
Asbestos in the workplace is heavily regulated under the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations. These do not apply to householders undertaking DIY activities. However, it is important to ensure that asbestos found in the home is managed appropriately to ensure the safety of your family, friends and neighbours.
Asbestos Advice for Commercial Premises - The Duty to Manage Asbestos
If you are an employer, you already have a legal duty to prevent the exposure of your employees to asbestos, or if that is not possible to reduce it to the lowest possible level.
In October 2002 a new 'duty to manage' asbestos was added to the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations. The Regulations have an 18-month lead-in period in order to give duty holders sufficient time to comply and are now in force.
Last updated: 12 April 2007
