A.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral which when refined can be used as a binding agent or insulator. The most common forms of asbestos are Chrysotile (White), Amosite (Brown), and Crocidolite (Blue). All types are dangerous, but blue and brown are know to be more dangerous than white.
Q.
Where is Asbestos usually found?
A.
Asbestos is usually found in any buildings built or refurbished before 2000. Some of its most common uses were:
- Thermal insulation (e.g. pipe and boiler insulation)
- Fire-proofing materials (e.g. sprayed insulation, fire door insulation)
- Lagging
- Vinyl floor coverings
- Textured decorative coatings
- Asbestos cement/fibrocement products (e.g. roof and wall claddings)
- Paints, coatings, sealants and adhesives
- Textiles (e.g. woven cloths, blankets)
- Friction materials (e.g. brake linings)
Asbestos materials cannot be identified by appearance alone; they need to be sampled and tested in order to confirm the presence of asbestos.
A.
If the asbestos material is in good condition and it is not disturbed, it does not pose a risk to health. However, if disturbed, for example through repair or refurbishment, the asbestos fibres can break down into minute fibres that can be breathed in and can seriously damage the lungs. There are three main diseases caused by exposure to asbestos: Asbestosis: irreversible scarring of the lungs; lung cancer and mesothelioma: cancer of the lining of the lungs or stomach. All of these diseases have no cure, and there can be a 15-60 year gap between first exposure and diagnosis.
Q.
What should I do if I suspect the presence of Asbestos?
A.
Before any work is carried out on your site or building you should have an independent asbestos site survey in order to identify any asbestos materials. Failure to do so could result in fines, possible custodial sentences and major disruption to your business operations. If asbestos has been identified and people on site are likely to come into contact with it, you should have a plan and procedure in place before starting work. If not you are in breach of the health and safety regulations. If asbestos is identified you should prepare a plan of action detailing how to deal with it. We can prepare an asbestos management plan for you. Works should not continue until all asbestos materials have been encapsulated, removed or cleaned by a licensed contractor.
A.
Ensafe Consultants are trained to the highest recognised standards within the industry and are able to provide a wide range of services from basic air monitoring and bulk analysis to detailed surveys, specification and tender writing and full turnkey asbestos removal project management. Central to the provision of this service is a detailed and well maintained internal quality system which is overseen by the dedicated Technical, Quality and Training Director, to ensure our high standards are consistently achieved, maintained and surpassed.
For further information or advice on our services, contact Ensafe on 01604 636436 or complete our enquiry form and we will get in touch with you.