Is Removal of Asbestos-Contaminated Soil Notifiable in Hampshire?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in several industries due to its fire-resistant, durable, and insulating properties. However, it is now well established that asbestos causes serious health issues, such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Therefore, regulatory authorities enforce strict regulations regarding the handling, removal, and disposal of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).

In this article, we will discuss the regulations regarding asbestos-contaminated soil (ACS) in Hampshire, particularly in relation to whether its removal is notifiable. Additionally, we will provide an overview of our services as Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, a Hampshire-based asbestos removal specialist company.

Asbestos in Soil

ACS occurs when asbestos fibers become embedded in soil, either through natural weathering and erosion of ACMs or from previous asbestos removal work. ACS is particularly problematic when the land will be disturbed during construction, excavation, or gardening activities, as the fibers may become airborne and inhaled. Moreover, ACS may also contaminate groundwater, causing additional health and environmental concerns.

Although soils contain only small amounts of asbestos fibers, it is still essential to identify and manage ACS. If the soil is suspected of containing asbestos, a laboratory analysis can confirm its presence and quantify its concentration. The UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has established a trigger level of 0.1% by weight of asbestos-containing material, above which the soil must be classified as ACS.

Asbestos Waste Regulations

Asbestos-containing waste (ACW) includes any material that contains more than 0.1% asbestos and is classified as hazardous waste. ACW must be disposed of at authorized waste management facilities that have the correct permits and facilities to handle it safely. The handling, transport, and disposal of ACW is tightly governed by environmental and health regulations, including the Control of Asbestos Regulations (CAR) 2012, the Environmental Protection Act 1990, and the Hazardous Waste Regulations 2005.

The regulations require ACW to be double-bagged in secure and clearly labeled bags, with a waste consignment note detailing the waste carrier, waste type, and destination. Only licensed and trained personnel may handle ACW, and they must wear appropriate protective equipment, such as respirators, coveralls, and gloves. The waste management facility must also issue a consignment note proving that the waste has been lawfully transferred and disposed of.

Notifiable Non-Licensed Work

When removal of less than 10 square meters of ACMs is happening, it is regarded as notifiable non-licensed work (NNLW). The objective of regulating these activities is to ensure that workers and the public are protected from the dangers of asbestos. According to Regulation 6 of CAR 2012, NNLW must be notified to the relevant enforcing authority, which in Hampshire means the Hampshire County Council's Public Protection Department. The notification must be sent at least 14 days before the work begins and must include the location and nature of the work, the amount and type of ACMs involved, and the competence of the work operators.

However, the notification requirement does not apply to the removal of ACS by itself unless it contains other asbestos-containing materials, such as insulation or cement products. In most cases, the removal of ACS falls under the scope of the guidance on remediation of contaminated land published by HSE, which advises that the work be carried out by licensed asbestos removal contractors, such as Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire

Based in Hampshire, Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire is a specialist asbestos removal company serving Hampshire, the South East of England, and beyond. Our team has over ten years of experience in the asbestos industry, is fully trained and licensed by the HSE, and is dedicated to providing a safe and efficient service to all our clients.

We offer a comprehensive range of asbestos removal services, including:

• Asbestos survey and identification, including ACS assessment.
• Safe and compliant removal of ACMs, including asbestos cement, insulation, and contaminated soil.
• Waste management and disposal of ACW, including consignment notes.
• Site clearance and decontamination.
• Air monitoring and clearance certification.

Our services comply with all relevant regulations, including CAR 2012 and the HSE's approved code of practice (L143) for the safe removal of asbestos. We are also members of the Industry Working Group Assist, designed to assist in continually improving standards in the asbestos industry.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we prioritize safety, efficiency, and affordability. Our team will work closely with our clients to devise a tailored solution to their asbestos issues, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum safety.

Conclusion

ACS is a hazardous material that must be identified, managed, and removed according to strict regulations. Although the removal of ACS itself is not notifiable, it still requires the services of a licensed asbestos removal company, such as Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire. By following the regulations, asbestos removal contractors ensure safety for the workers, the public, and the environment.

If you have concerns regarding asbestos-containing materials, please do not hesitate to contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire at 01962 458066 or via email at [email protected]. You may also visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-hampshire.co.uk for more information about our services.