What To Do if You Find Asbestos in Your House in the UK?
Finding asbestos in your home can be stressful, daunting and worrying. So, understanding what steps you need to take can put your mind at ease.
Here’s a guide on what to do if you find asbestos in your house in the UK, so you can navigate the problem safely and in compliance with UK Asbestos Regulations.
Understanding What Asbestos Is
Before we go into what you should do, we’ll first talk about what asbestos is.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous material that used to be widely used in construction, thanks to its durability and resistance to heat. However, by the mid 80s, the dangers of asbestos were discovered. The material can cause serious health issues including lung cancer and asbestosis, when its fibres become airborne and are inhaled.
In 1985, blue (Crocidolite) and brown (Amosite) asbestos were banned in the UK. Then, by 1999 all types of asbestos were banned in the UK.
Immediate Actions
Despite the fact asbestos was banned in the late 90s, plenty of houses built before this still include asbestos. So, if you have moved into a property that was built before 1999, there is a chance that you might find asbestos in the building.
Here’s what to do if you find asbestos in your house in the UK…
- Do Not Disturb: If you suspect you have found asbestos, avoid touching or disturbing it. Asbestos is only dangerous when its fibres are released into the air.
- Limit Access: Restrict access to the area. Ensure that children and pets stay away until the situation is assessed and managed by professionals.
- Do Not Attempt DIY Removal: Asbestos removal requires specialist equipment and training. Attempting to remove it yourself can increase the risk of exposure.
Arrange an Asbestos Survey
If you think you might have found asbestos in your property, an asbestos survey is essential. The asbestos survey will confirm the presence of asbestos and it will also determine the appropriate course of action. This is where our professional asbestos survey company can help.
There are two types of asbestos surveys, but our staff will be able to advise on the type that you need.
Why Choose 0800 Asbestos?
Expertise
With over 25 years experience in the asbestos industry working with some of the largest property management and development companies in the UK, as well as the public sector, housing associations and large corporations. Our Lead Surveyor is one of the most qualified professionals in the industry
Accreditations
All of our external Laboratories are UKAS accredited. UKAS accreditation is against the international standard ISO/IEC 17025. Our lead surveyor is qualified to BOHS P402, P403 & P404 standards. Under his meticulous attention to detail, he undertakes regular audits to ensure all our surveyors comply with our stringent standards at all times and insists they have a minimum of 10 years’ experience and BOHS P402 certification.
Regulatory Compliance
We ensure all work is carried out in compliance with UK regulations and health and safety standards.
Contact 0800 for an Asbestos Removal Survey
If you think your property has signs of asbestos, it is essential for your safety that an asbestos survey is carried out as soon as possible. An asbestos survey will identify if there are Asbestos Containing Materials (ACMs) within the premises. After that, we can design an effective Asbestos Management Report, which will be your plan of action.
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