What Are The Rules On Removing Unbroken Asbestos In Hampshire?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring group of minerals that have been mined and used for their heat resistance and durability for over a century. Asbestos fibres were used extensively in building materials and products to ensure their strength and durability. This has led to asbestos being used in many different applications; from insulation in our homes and buildings, to brake pads in our cars.

However, asbestos has since been recognised as a significant health hazard. When asbestos materials are disturbed, they release toxic fibres into the air that can lead to serious and life-threatening illnesses, such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. The risks associated with asbestos exposure mean that you need to handle and dispose of this material with the utmost care.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire Your Local Asbestos Removal Company

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire are a well-established asbestos removal and surveying company based in Hampshire. We understand the dangers associated with asbestos and provide a range of services to help you manage its presence in your home or business.

Our team of experienced professionals is on hand to provide expert guidance on how to deal with any asbestos-containing materials you may have. We pride ourselves on our commitment to providing a high-quality and affordable service that is tailored to your specific needs.

What Is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a natural mineral that is composed of a group of fibrous materials. These fibres are durable, strong and heat-resistant, making them ideal for use in a range of products and materials from insulation to brake pads. Asbestos is not dangerous when it is in a stable condition and undisturbed, as it is only when the fibres become airborne that they pose a risk to human health.

The Risks Associated With Asbestos Fibres

The fibres in asbestos can cause serious long-term health problems when inhaled, such as lung cancer, asbestosis and mesothelioma. The risk of developing these illnesses is increased the more you are exposed to the fibres.

Asbestos is hazardous when the fibres are released into the air and then inhaled into your lungs. Once the fibres have become lodged in your lungs, they can damage the tissue and cause scarring, which over time can lead to cancer and other serious health issues.

The Use Of Asbestos In Building And Construction Materials

Asbestos materials were widely used in the construction of homes and buildings throughout the 20th century, due to its strength, durability and fire resistance. This legacy has left many homes and buildings with asbestos-containing materials that need to be managed safely and responsibly.

Asbestos was used in a wide range of materials such as insulation, cement, roofing materials, ceiling tiles, pipe insulation, and floor tiles. Most of these materials are durable and long-lasting, which means that they can still be present in our homes today.

The Governments Role In Managing The Risk

The UK Government has implemented strict regulations on the handling and disposal of asbestos due to the health risks posed by the material. The primary government legislation relating to asbestos in the UK is the Asbestos (Licensing) Regulations 2018, the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, and the Waste Management Regulations 2011.

These regulations stipulate the strict procedures that must be followed when handling, disposing and transporting asbestos-containing materials. Additionally, the regulations require that any entity that manages asbestos-containing materials must have a license issued by the Health and Safety Executive.

The Risks Associated With Asbestos-Containing Materials

The risks associated with asbestos exposure vary depending on the type of material that contains the fibres. Products such as insulation and pipe lagging are often more dangerous as they can be easily disturbed.

Asbestos-containing products such as asbestos cement also pose a risk when they are broken or cut, as they can release fibres into the air. However, this risk is reduced when the product remains unbroken, as the fibres are unable to escape.

The Safe Handling And Disposal Of Asbestos In Hampshire

Asbestos containing materials can be safely handled and disposed of by trained professionals to avoid exposure to hazardous fibres. At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we follow strict procedures to ensure that asbestos-containing materials are handled and disposed of safely and responsibly.

Our trained professionals use appropriate protective clothing, tools, and techniques to safely remove asbestos-containing materials from your home or business. The materials are then transported to licensed asbestos disposal sites where they are safely disposed of.

How You Can Dispose Of Asbestos Yourself

If you are a householder carrying out minor works that involve removing small amounts of asbestos, the waste can be disposed of at a licensed site. However, it is important to follow the precautions set out by both the government and Hampshire county council.

There are specific instructions set out by the council on how to manage small amounts of asbestos, such as wrapping it securely in heavy-duty polythene to prevent the release of any fibres. The waste must then be labelled appropriately and taken to a licensed waste disposal site.

Asbestos Recycling

Asbestos-containing materials cannot be recycled, as the fibres in the material are hazardous waste. Any materials that contain asbestos fibres must be disposed of safely and responsibly at a licensed disposal site.

The Court Household Asbestos Case

During the 1970s, asbestos materials were widely used in the construction industry. The Court household asbestos case highlighted the risks associated with asbestos exposure in the workplace. This landmark case was brought before the courts due to the high concentration of asbestos fibres in the air at the Court household's workplace. This concentration of asbestos led to the legal requirement of stronger regulation of asbestos.

Asbestos In Hampshire

Hampshire, located in South-East England, has had a long association with asbestos. This is due to the large amount of construction work carried out in the 20th century, as well as the many industrial facilities in the region.

If you suspect that your property may contain asbestos, it is important to seek professional advice. Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire offers asbestos surveys and testing services to help you identify any potential risks.

Conclusion

Asbestos is a hazardous material that can cause serious health problems if not handled and disposed of safely. It is essential to follow the regulations set out by the government when dealing with asbestos-containing materials.

If you suspect that you may have asbestos-containing materials in your home or business in Hampshire, get in touch with Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire today. Our team of experienced professionals will provide expert advice and services to help you manage the risks associated with asbestos-containing materials so you can rest easy knowing your home or business is safe. Contact us at 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected] to learn more.