How To Asbestos Test In Hampshire

Introduction

Asbestos is a dangerous mineral that was commonly used in construction materials until it was banned in 1989. It can cause serious respiratory problems, lung cancer, and mesothelioma if it is disturbed and released into the air. Because of its widespread use in the past, there are many buildings in Hampshire, and South East England in general, that may contain asbestos. As a homeowner, property owner, or tradesperson, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and to take appropriate steps to protect yourself and others from exposure to asbestos.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we are a professional asbestos testing company in Hampshire. We have the expertise and equipment necessary to test for the presence of asbestos in your home or building. In this article, we will discuss the importance of asbestos training, the dangers of asbestos, how to find asbestos in your building, and the different types of asbestos testing available.

Asbestos Awareness Training

If you are a tradesperson who is likely to disturb asbestos-containing materials, it is vital that you receive appropriate asbestos awareness training. This will teach you how to identify asbestos-containing materials and how to work with them safely. It is important to remember that any building constructed before 2000, and possibly even after, could contain asbestos.

Asbestos awareness training can help you to identify different types of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), how asbestos can become damaged or disturbed, and the measures you need to take should you come across asbestos. The HSE (Health and Safety Executive) recommends that those who manage buildings should get trained in asbestos management, so they are aware of the issues surrounding asbestos and the law.

Why Asbestos is Dangerous

Asbestos only becomes dangerous when it is agitated or broken down in some way, releasing its fibers into the air. If these fibers become airborne and are inhaled, they can lodge in the lungs and cause serious health problems.

Cigarette smoking greatly increases the risk of lung cancer from asbestos exposure. Symptoms of mesothelioma, lung cancer or asbestosis can take between 10 and 50 years to develop, so asbestos exposure could be laying dormant for years without knowing.

How to Find Asbestos in Your Building

There are many materials in a building that could potentially contain asbestos. Here are a few points to consider when checking for ACMs:

• Some common asbestos containing materials include pipe insulation, boiler insulation, ceiling tiles and duct insulation. The only way to know for sure is by testing the specific material.
• If the building was built before 2000 and is intact, there may not be any problem with asbestos.
• If the building was built before 1989, it may contain asbestos insulation, asbestos lagging or ACM predating the ban of asbestos-containing materials.
• If the building is being renovated and predates 2000, surveyors need to use their expertise and equipment to determine whether the asbestos-containing material is present to prevent long-term exposure to asbestos.
• Contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire for an asbestos survey.
• Don't assume that a material doesn't contain asbestos just by looking at it.

Types of Asbestos Testing Available

There are several methods an asbestos testing company in Hampshire will use to detect the presence of asbestos. These methods are:

1. Air testing - this measures the concentration of asbestos fibers in the air.
2. Bulk sampling - this requires a registered asbestos surveyor to take a small sample of the suspected asbestos, which is then analysed under a microscope.
3. Floor tile sampling analysis of vinyl/linoleum floor tiles to identify whether they contain asbestos.

Asbestos Testing for Your Home

When buying a home, it's best to have it tested for ACMs before completing the purchase. You don't want to unknowingly move into a property with ACMs that could cause health problems down the line. Similarly, if you are considering a renovation, it is important to test the building for the presence of asbestos-containing materials.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire can offer you specialist advice on asbestos removal, disposal and the process of managing asbestos removal projects. This will help to ensure that your home is safe from asbestos contamination.

Why Asbestos Shouldnt Be Handled By Unknowing Hands

Many people are unaware of the dangers of asbestos and do not know what to do if they come across it in their home or building. Attempting to remove asbestos yourself, without the proper training and equipment, is extremely dangerous and illegal. Even if you only suspect the presence of asbestos, do not try to disturb or remove any material without professional guidance.

Asbestos removal is a high-risk and legal requirement, so it is important to choose a trustworthy contractor like Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire. We are certified and experienced in management of asbestos containing materials, ensuring you receive the best service in the area.

Conclusion

Asbestos is a dangerous substance that was widely used in construction materials before its ban in 1989. Asbestos exposure can cause serious respiratory problems, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. As a result, it is important for homeowners, property owners and tradespeople to be aware of the potential risks and to take appropriate steps to protect themselves and others.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, our team of registered surveyors is committed to providing the highest quality of asbestos testing, collection, surveying and advice to our clients across Hampshire and South East England. If you have any questions about asbestos or would like to book an asbestos survey, please feel free to call us on 01962 458066 or visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-hampshire.co.uk.