Is It Dangerous To Remove An Asbestos Roof In Hampshire?

If you're a homeowner or a business owner in Hampshire and you've got an old asbestos roof in your property, you might be wondering if it is dangerous to remove it. Asbestos is a hazardous substance, and its use has been banned in many countries around the world, including the UK. However, many properties still have asbestos-containing materials present, particularly in roofing sheets, which were common before the ban.

The good news is that there are experienced and professional companies, such as Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, that can safely and affordably remove asbestos roofs in Hampshire and other areas around the UK. In this article, we will discuss the risks of asbestos, the dangers of handling asbestos-containing roofing sheets, and why it is important to entrust the removal of an asbestos roof to an experienced and licensed contractor.

The Risks of Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction of buildings and products throughout the UK from the 1950s until the end of the 20th century. It was popular because it has excellent heat-resistant and insulating properties, and it is inexpensive. However, it is now known that asbestos is hazardous to human health if its fibres are breathed in or ingested.

Asbestos fibres are microscopic and can be inhaled easily. Once inhaled, they can lodge in the lungs and cause serious health problems, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. These illnesses can take several years or even decades to develop after exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) can be found in a wide range of products, including roofing sheets, cement products, boiler insulation, floor tiles, and more. If you suspect that your property might contain asbestos, it is important to have a qualified inspector conduct an asbestos survey to identify any potential risks.

Handling Asbestos-Containing Roofing Sheets

Asbestos roofing sheets were widely used in the UK, particularly in the construction of garages and outbuildings, due to their strength and durability. However, these roofing sheets can become brittle and prone to damage over time, which can release asbestos fibres into the air.

It is essential to handle any asbestos-containing material correctly. If an asbestos-containing roof is damaged or broken, it can release asbestos fibres into the air, creating a hazard for those in the vicinity. When working with asbestos-containing roofing sheets, it is essential to follow the right safety protocols, including wearing protective clothing, gloves, and a mask.

Removing asbestos-containing roofing sheets requires specialized equipment and an understanding of safe work practices. It is not safe to remove asbestos roofs yourself, especially if you don't have any experience with this type of work. A licensed asbestos removal contractor, like Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, has the expertise and equipment to ensure that the removal process is safe, efficient and cost-effective.

Research on Asbestos Fibres in Cement Products

Asbestos has been widely used in cement roofing sheets and other products. However, research has found that the risk posed by asbestos-containing cement products is low, as the fibres are typically firmly bonded within the cement, which makes it difficult for them to get into the air. Cement products containing asbestos pose minimal risk to human health as long as they are not disturbed or damaged.

If your property has asbestos-containing cement products in its structure, it is essential to keep them in good condition and monitor them regularly. If you need any repairs or modifications that might affect the asbestos-containing cement products, it is important to have a qualified and licensed contractor like Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire assess the situation before any work begins.

Safety Precautions for Asbestos Removal

Removing an asbestos roof is a hazardous process that must be carried out under strict safety protocols. The asbestos removal contractors at Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire are fully licensed and trained in safe asbestos removal, and have years of experience in safely removing asbestos from many types of buildings and structures around Hampshire, South East England, and other parts of the UK.

The first step in asbestos roof removal is a careful inspection of the site, followed by preparation to minimize dust and fibers in the worksite. During the actual removal, the contractors will wear protective suits, gloves and masks, seal off the area effectively, and use specialized equipment to safely remove the asbestos-containing material.

After removal, the asbestos-containing materials will be carefully transported to a licensed disposal site where they will be disposed of safely in accordance with the UK's strict asbestos waste regulations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you have questions about asbestos and its presence in your property, it is important to seek out a professional and licensed contractor like Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, who can provide advice and safely remove any asbestos-containing materials. While asbestos poses a health risk, this risk can be effectively minimized through proper identification, handling, and removal.

To speak with one of our asbestos removal contractors or to schedule an asbestos survey in Hampshire and surrounding areas, please contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire by phone on 01962 458066 or by email at [email protected]. Alternatively, you can visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-hampshire.co.uk to learn more about our services and to request a free quote.