Can You Work While Asbestos Is Being Removed In Hampshire?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials for many years. Its fibrous structure made it resistant to fire, heat, and chemicals, which made it an attractive choice for insulation, roofing, and other building materials. However, asbestos is a highly toxic substance that has been linked to several serious health conditions, including mesothelioma and lung cancer. As a result, the UK government banned the use of asbestos in 1999.

Despite the ban, many older buildings in Hampshire, South East England, and the rest of the country still contain asbestos. If you own a property that was built before 2000, there is a good chance that asbestos is present in some form. This is especially true if the building has not been renovated or updated in many years.

If you need to have asbestos removed from your property, it is important to understand the risks involved and how they can be managed. This guide from Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire will explain what you need to know about working safely while asbestos is being removed.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that are composed of long, thin fibres. Asbestos was widely used in construction materials for many years because of its fire-resistant and insulating properties. Some of the most common uses for asbestos include:

• Insulation for pipes, furnaces, and boilers
• Roofing materials
• Flooring tiles
• Ceiling tiles
• Textured paint
• Asbestos-cement products, such as corrugated sheets and gutters

Asbestos is a highly toxic substance that can cause serious health problems when it is inhaled or ingested. Exposure to asbestos can lead to several serious health conditions, including:

• Mesothelioma
• Lung cancer
• Asbestosis
• Pleural thickening

These conditions can take many years to develop, and symptoms may not appear until decades after exposure to asbestos.

Because of the health risks associated with asbestos, the UK government banned its use in new construction projects in 1999. However, many older buildings still contain asbestos, and it must be removed safely to prevent the release of asbestos fibres.

What Are the Risks of Working with Asbestos?

When asbestos is disturbed, it can release tiny fibres into the air. These fibres are so small that they can be breathed in without being noticed, and they can lodge deep in the lungs or digestive system. Once asbestos fibres are in the body, they can cause serious health problems.

The risks of working with asbestos increase if the fibres are not properly contained during removal. Asbestos removal must be carried out in a controlled manner to minimise the risk of exposure to asbestos fibres.

How Can You Work Safely While Asbestos Is Being Removed?

If you need to work in an area where asbestos is being removed, it is important to take the necessary precautions to minimise the risk of exposure. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Make sure that the asbestos removal company is qualified and experienced

If you are outsourcing the asbestos removal work, be sure to hire a reputable company with experience in asbestos removal. The company should be fully licensed and insured, and all staff should be trained in asbestos removal and safety procedures.

2. Make sure that the asbestos removal work is carried out in a controlled manner

Asbestos removal should be carried out in a controlled manner to minimise the risk of exposure to asbestos fibres. This includes using special equipment to contain the asbestos, such as plastic sheeting and negative air pressure units.

3. Do not disturb asbestos

If you are working in an area where asbestos is present, it is important not to disturb the asbestos. This can release asbestos fibres into the air, which can be inhaled or ingested.

4. Follow all safety procedures

If you are working in an area where asbestos is being removed, it is important to follow all safety procedures. This includes wearing protective clothing, such as coveralls and respirators, and washing your hands and face frequently.

5. Stay away from the work area

If possible, stay away from the work area while asbestos is being removed. This will minimise your exposure to asbestos fibres.

Conclusion

Asbestos is a highly toxic substance that can cause serious health problems when it is inhaled or ingested. If you need to have asbestos removed from your property, it is important to work with a qualified and experienced asbestos removal company like Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire. This will ensure that the asbestos is removed in a controlled manner and that the risk of exposure to asbestos fibres is minimised.

If you need more information about working safely while asbestos is being removed in Hampshire, contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire today at 01962 458066 or visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-hampshire.co.uk.