How To Remove Asbestos Insulation Boards In Hampshire

Introduction

Asbestos is a material that was widely used in insulation and other building applications. Unfortunately, it was found to be extremely hazardous to human health, causing lung cancer, mesothelioma and other severe respiratory diseases. Many homes and buildings still contain asbestos insulation boards (AIBs), which must be removed safely and properly by professionals. This ensures that no one is at risk of breathing in the dust and fibres that are released when disturbed.

That's where we come in. Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire are an asbestos removal company based in Hampshire, South East England. We specialise in the safe and efficient removal of asbestos insulation boards, and we have years of experience in this field. In this guide, we'll take you through the process of removing asbestos insulation boards from your home or building in Hampshire.

What Is Asbestos Insulation Board?

Asbestos insulation board (AIB) is a type of board made from asbestos fibres and a binding material. It was often used in buildings from the 1940s to the 1970s, particularly in ceiling tiles, partitioning walls, fireproofing, and duct insulation. AIB is typically grey or white in colour, and its texture is similar to cardboard. It is a low-density board that is easy to cut, drill or saw.

However, AIB is known to be a hazardous material when disturbed, and can release tiny fibres into the air that can be breathed in. Once these fibres are inhaled, they can cause serious lung diseases like cancer and mesothelioma. This is why AIB must be removed from homes and buildings by trained professionals who follow strict safety protocols.

Why Remove Asbestos Insulation Board?

Asbestos insulation board was commonly used in building applications because it offered excellent fire resistance and insulation properties. Unfortunately, it was later discovered that the material posed significant health risks, and it was banned in many countries in the late 1990s. While it is not illegal to have AIBs in your property, it is essential to remove them if they are damaged, disturbed, or deteriorating. This is because over time, the fibres can become airborne, and if inhaled, can cause serious health problems.

In addition, if you plan to renovate, redecorate, or demolish a property that contains AIB, it must be removed before any work starts. Failure to do so can lead to hefty fines and legal action.

How to Remove Asbestos Insulation Board

Removing asbestos insulation boards from your home or building in Hampshire is a complex process that should only be carried out by licensed professionals. Here are the steps involved:

Step 1: Risk assessment and planning

Before any work can start, a licensed asbestos surveyor will assess the risk and extent of any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in your property. They will then provide a comprehensive report outlining the location, type, and condition of any ACMs, along with recommendations for their safe removal.

Once this is done, an asbestos removal plan will be drawn up, including details of the removal and disposal of the AIB. This plan must be agreed upon by all parties involved in the removal process, including the client, the licensed asbestos removal contractor, and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency).

Step 2: Preparing the work area

The work area must be isolated from other parts of the building to prevent the spread of dust and fibres. This is done by sealing off the area with plastic sheeting and using negative air pressure equipment to create a vacuum that pulls air from the work area, through a filtration system and vents it outside.

Step 3: Removing the AIB

The removal process will typically involve cutting or breaking down the AIBs into manageable pieces, which can then be safely removed from the site. The workers will wear personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect themselves, and the materials will be wetted down to minimise the release of dust and fibres. The AIBs will be placed in specially marked sealed containers for disposal, and the work area will be thoroughly cleaned.

Step 4: Encapsulation

In some cases, where removal is not possible or desired, the AIBs can be encapsulated, which involves sealing them in a protective coating that prevents the release of fibres. This is a less invasive process than removal and is typically used when the AIBs are in good condition and not at risk of being disturbed.

Cost of Asbestos Removal in Hampshire

The cost of AIB removal in Hampshire will depend on a variety of factors, such as the location, size, and extent of the work involved. However, Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire provide a competitive and transparent pricing structure, including a free initial consultation and site survey. Our knowledgeable team can provide you with an accurate quote, and we pride ourselves on offering affordable rates for quality work.

Conclusion

Removing asbestos insulation boards from your home or building in Hampshire is a must if you want to minimise the risk of exposure to this hazardous material. While it may seem like an expensive and daunting task, it's essential for the safety of you and your family or employees. At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we have years of experience in safely removing AIBs, and we are committed to providing our clients with reliable, efficient, and affordable service. Contact us today at 01962 458066, or email us at [email protected] to schedule your free consultation and site survey.