Although asbestos used to be highly regarded for its fire-retardant and insulating properties, it is no surprise it is one of the most dangerous materials found in many buildings in the UK today. We now know that asbestos exposure can lead to devastating conditions with fatal consequences, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. For this reason, understanding asbestos removal services as a property owner, trade professional and facility manager is important to get it right for the sake of safety, compliance and peace of mind.
Why Asbestos Removal Matters
Any building constructed prior to 2000 may have asbestos in its building materials! What has happened over the past few decades is asbestos has been hidden in insulation materials, roofing, floor tiles, textured coatings or pipe lagging. The threat that asbestos poses does not come from the building containing asbestos, but it becomes problematic when the building is renovated, repaired or demolished, where asbestos fibres can be disturbed or made airborne and be breathed into the lungs! Long-term inhalation of asbestos may cause health issues.
This is why you should never remove asbestos as DIY! Only fully trained and competent asbestos removal personnel are qualified and equipped to do this work and legally as well!
What Are Asbestos Removal Services?
Asbestos removal services include the safe identification, handling (if necessary) and disposal of asbestos materials located in buildings. The asbestos removal services provided typically include:
- Initial survey and testing to confirm the presence of asbestos.
- Risk assessment and post-removal plan.
- Controlled removal procedures where they wear protective equipment and use specialist tools.
- Disposal of asbestos waste, in accordance with UK hazardous waste regulations.
- Clearance certificates that confirm the area is safe for reoccupation.
By employing a licensed asbestos removal company you protect not only yourself and your property but also the health and wellbeing of workers and building occupants.
Legal Responsibilities for Property Owners and Managers
UK law imposes a stringent duty to ensure the safety of anyone with responsibility for commercial or rented premises. Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, owners or managers of buildings have three duties. They must:
- Identify asbestos through surveys.
- Maintain records of the location and condition of asbestos.
- Safely arrange for asbestos removal whenever necessary.
To neglect to comply, could potentially lead to prosecution, fines and serious reputational implications. Hiring a reliable asbestos removal specialist will help ensure your compliance while making sure that everyone working on site is protected.
The Process of Asbestos Waste Removal
Once the asbestos has been safely removed, it’s still not over. Removing asbestos without proper waste management is only one part in the process. All types of asbestos waste must be put into double-bagging, labelled and disposed of at a licensed waste handling and disposal facilities.
If the asbestos waste is disposed of incorrectly, not only is it illegal, it continually poses a risk to the wider community. This is why professional and experienced asbestos removal services manage the entire chain from removal to final dispersal, eliminating any possible oversights.
Why You Should Always Use Asbestos Removal Specialists
Some property owners are tempted to cut costs by hiring unqualified contractors. But asbestos work is not an area to take shortcuts. Licensed asbestos removal specialists:
- Have undergone strict training and certification.
- Follow HSE-approved procedures.
- Use advanced protective equipment.
- Provide documented proof of compliance.
This professional expertise ensures asbestos is dealt with safely and efficiently, without hidden risks.
Final Thoughts
Asbestos is not a substance to take lightly, and it is definitely not something to try and deal with without expert advice. If you are undertaking renovations, managing a property of an older age or overseeing a demolition project, then engaging an asbestos removal service is the only safe and legal way to proceed.
Scopus Asbestos Compliance Ltd is a professional asbestos removal, asbestos waste removal and compliance service company. We will ensure that every task we undertake for you is dealt with, correctly ,safely and legally by qualified asbestos removal specialists.
