Can You Remove Non-Licensed Asbestos On Your Own In Hampshire?

Asbestos is a toxic substance that was once widely used in the construction and insulation of buildings. It has been linked to numerous health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Due to its dangers, the removal of asbestos from buildings is highly regulated by government agencies. In Hampshire, South East England, the removal of asbestos is governed by a set of regulations that dictate when and how it can be removed.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we are a licensed asbestos removal company in Hampshire, specializing in the safe and affordable removal of asbestos. We often receive questions from clients asking whether they can remove asbestos on their own, without hiring a licensed professional. In this article, we will explore the regulations surrounding asbestos removal in Hampshire and provide advice on whether non-licensed individuals should attempt to remove asbestos on their own.

Asbestos & Health

Before we discuss the regulations surrounding the removal of asbestos, its important to understand why asbestos is considered such a dangerous substance. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used for its heat-resistant and insulating properties. When disturbed, asbestos fibers can become airborne and inhaled into the lungs. Over time, these fibers can accumulate and cause serious health problems.

There are two main health risks associated with asbestos exposure: asbestosis and cancer. Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by the buildup of scar tissue in the lungs. Symptoms of asbestosis can include shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain. Asbestos exposure has also been linked to several types of cancer, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and ovarian cancer.

Licensed Asbestos Removal in Hampshire

Due to the potential health risks associated with asbestos exposure, the removal of asbestos is highly regulated in Hampshire. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 sets out specific requirements for the removal of asbestos-containing materials. These regulations require that all work with asbestos-containing materials be performed by a licensed contractor, unless the work meets specific criteria that allow it to be performed by a non-licensed individual.

Licensed asbestos removal companies in Hampshire, like Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, are trained and experienced in the safe removal of asbestos. Our team is equipped with specialized tools and equipment, and we follow strict protocols to ensure that asbestos is removed safely and effectively. We are also fully insured, so you can have peace of mind knowing that you are protected in the event of an accident.

Non-Licensed Asbestos Removal in Hampshire

While there are exceptions, the general rule is that all work with asbestos-containing materials in Hampshire must be performed by a licensed removal company. There are a few exceptions, outlined in the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, that allow non-licensed individuals to perform work with asbestos under certain conditions. These conditions include:

• The asbestos-containing material is non-friable (i.e. it is not crumbly or easily broken)
• The area containing the asbestos-containing material is less than 10 square meters
• The total amount of asbestos-containing material to be removed is less than 1 cubic meter

Non-licensed individuals who meet these criteria may be able to perform asbestos removal work on their own. However, we strongly advise against it. Asbestos removal is a complex and dangerous process that requires specialized knowledge, training, and equipment. Even small mistakes can lead to serious health risks, both for the individual performing the work and for others in the area.

The Risks of Non-Licensed Asbestos Removal

There are several risks associated with attempting to remove asbestos on your own. First and foremost, there is the risk of asbestos exposure. As we discussed earlier, asbestos fibers can become airborne and inhaled into the lungs, where they can accumulate over time and cause serious health problems. Non-licensed individuals who attempt to remove asbestos without proper training and equipment put themselves at risk of exposure.

Another risk of non-licensed asbestos removal is the risk of improper disposal. Asbestos-containing materials must be disposed of in a specific way, in order to ensure that they do not pose a risk to others. Licensed asbestos removal companies are trained in the proper disposal of asbestos, and they follow strict protocols to ensure that materials are disposed of safely and in compliance with regulations. Non-licensed individuals who attempt to remove asbestos on their own may not be aware of these protocols, and may inadvertently put others at risk by disposing of materials improperly.

Finally, non-licensed asbestos removal poses a risk of legal liability. If someone is exposed to asbestos as a result of your removal work, you could be held liable for any damages or health problems that result. Licensed asbestos removal companies carry insurance to protect against these risks, but non-licensed individuals do not have this protection.

Hire a Licensed Asbestos Removal Company in Hampshire

Given the risks associated with non-licensed asbestos removal, we strongly advise against attempting to remove asbestos on your own. Instead, hire a licensed asbestos removal company like Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire. Our team has the training, experience, and equipment necessary to safely and effectively remove asbestos from your property. We are licensed, insured, and fully compliant with all regulations governing asbestos removal in Hampshire.

If you suspect that your property may contain asbestos, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We will evaluate your property and provide you with a detailed assessment of any asbestos-containing materials that may need to be removed. Our team will work with you to develop a removal plan that meets your specific needs and budget, while ensuring that all work is performed safely and in compliance with regulations.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, your safety is our top priority. Contact us today to learn more about our asbestos removal services in Hampshire.

Contact Us

To contact us, give us a call at 01962 458066 or send us an email at [email protected]. Alternatively, you can visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-hampshire.co.uk.