Asbestos, once a widely used construction material, has left a lasting legacy that continues to cause concern and anxiety among property owners and occupants. The fear surrounding asbestos is not unfounded, considering its known health risks. In this blog, we’ll look at the issues with asbestos, why it causes worry and, most importantly, how you can take proactive steps to ease your asbestos anxiety.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was extensively used in construction for its heat resistant and insulating properties. However, over time, it became evident that asbestos exposure could lead to several lung conditions including cancer. This knowledge has understandably instilled fear and worry in individuals who suspect their homes or workplaces may harbour this silent threat.
Asbestos anxiety mostly stems from the fear of potential health hazards associated with exposure to asbestos. Prolonged inhalation of asbestos fibres can lead to diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma.
While the majority of cases result from long-term exposure in occupational settings, even a one-time exposure to asbestos can potentially pose a risk.
If you’re wondering how to stop worrying about asbestos, it’s crucial to take action rather than letting anxiety fester.
You can firstly check when your building was constructed. Asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999, so any building constructed from 2000 onwards should not have used asbestos.
Here are some other steps to take to help alleviate your concerns:
The first and most vital step is to consult with accredited asbestos professionals. Hiring experts to conduct an asbestos survey is essential for identifying potential asbestos containing materials (ACMs) in your property. Licensed professionals have the knowledge and experience to assess the risk and recommend appropriate actions.
An asbestos survey conducted by certified professionals involves a thorough inspection of your property or building to identify and assess the condition of any asbestos containing materials.
If asbestos is found, a management plan will be developed to outline the best course of action. This plan may include encapsulation, enclosure or, in some cases, removal by licensed and trained asbestos removal specialists.
An asbestos survey will identify and assess the condition of any asbestos containing materials.
Understanding that one-time exposure to asbestos is troubling. However, the level of risk depends on factors such as the duration and intensity of exposure.
The risk of developing an asbestos-related disease is much higher for those people who are constantly exposed to it, for example, in a work related environment, than those who have had a one-time exposure.
Try not to panic, but do seek medical advice if that one-time exposure to asbestos was an extreme or intense experience. Seek professional advice if you remain anxious.
By promptly addressing the presence of asbestos through a comprehensive management plan, you significantly mitigate the risks associated with potential exposure.
If you’re worried whether your garage roof is asbestos, you will need a professional team to first confirm its presence, and then, if deemed necessary, remove the garage or garage roof in a secure and safe way giving you total peace of mind. We can also replace your garage roof with a GRP fibreglass alternative.
A professional team, such as those at Advance Asbestos Removal, know exactly what to look for and can remove any hazardous waste to government approved secure locations. We are UK Asbestos Training Association trained and covered by public liability insurance to the value of £5 million.
An old shed may have you worrying about if it has asbestos. Whether it’s a small garden shed, or a large commercial storage unit, no job is too big or small for a professional team such as the one at Advance Asbestos Removal.
The first thing that will happen is that an audit and risk assessment will be conducted on the shed, with suggestions on how to proceed.
If asbestos is found in the shed roof, there is no need to necessarily replace the entire shed. Again, a new shed roof made from GRP fibreglass can be used to replace the old one.
Artex ceilings were popular between the 1970s and 1990s. The material was often used as a thickening agent, until this practice was forbidden during the mid-1980s. It’s worth getting old Artex ceilings properly assessed for possible asbestos.
If you’re worried about asbestos in the ceiling of your house, lock-up or outbuilding, a professional team like Advance Asbestos Removal will assess the situation and can safely remove and dispose of any ACMs that are found.
Commercial property owners face additional responsibilities when it comes to asbestos management. Complying with official guidelines and regulations is not only necessary for the safety of occupants, but also for legal reasons.
Anyone who is responsible for maintenance or repairs on a commercial building is known as the duty holder and must take steps to manage the risk of asbestos in a number of ways.
Here are the key guidelines to consider:
The duty holder must take steps to determine the presence of ACMs. Commercial properties should undergo regular asbestos inspections, especially if they were constructed before the regulations restricting asbestos use came into effect. Scheduled inspections ensure early detection and prevent health hazards.
Keep a comprehensive asbestos register that documents the location, condition, and type of any identified ACMs. This information is crucial for ongoing management and future inspections. After the risk assessment, a plan should be put in place to show how the risks will be managed and what action will be taken.
Educate employees about the potential risks associated with asbestos exposure and train them on proper procedures to follow in case of suspected ACMs. Creating awareness fosters a safer working environment and reduces asbestos anxiety among occupants.
Commercial property owners face additional responsibilities when it comes to asbestos management.
At Advance Asbestos Removal, we have been helping homeowners, landlords and commercial property managers with asbestos testing and removal services and taking away asbestos anxiety since 1984. Our team is fast, efficient, helpful and reliable, and all our specialists are UK Asbestos Training Association (UKATA) trained.
If you’re based in Horsham & Dorking, our local licensed surveyors and removal team can help — see our Horsham & Dorking asbestos removal service for details.
We offer a professional service with minimal disruption and complete legal compliance. To discover how we can help you, or to request your free, no-obligation quotation, please contact us today.
Ditton House, 59 Fleece Road, Long Ditton, Surrey, KT6 5JR
Established in 1984 With Over 30 Years Experience. Call: 07759 018402
