Asbestos Risk Control Ltd

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous silicate mineral which has unique properties that make it useful in building construction. Asbestos was mined in many countries around the world. Industrial use started in the 1870's and it was used in over 3,000 products until its ban in the UK in 1999. The first health concerns were raised in 1898, and subsequently asbestos has killed millions of people since.

Why was asbestos used?

Asbestos fibres have numerous properties such as high strength, chemical & fire resistance, and good insulation properties. When added to other materials it was used to create very effective building products. It doesn't rot and products were cheap, leading to high use in the post war building boom.

Why is it dangerous?

When disturbed, asbestos fibres split down in to invisible sub-micron particles which are easily inhaled and generally speaking, the body cannot breakdown these tiny fibres. Decades later incurable debilitating diseases may develop such as: asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Approximately 240,000 people die per year from asbestos related diseases.

I have asbestos in my building, am I at risk?

If your asbestos is in good condition and is regularly inspected as part of your management plan, then in conjunction with appropriate air monitoring (as required), the risk from the material is low. However if the material is not monitored, or if it is disturbed, then you and other building occupiers could be at risk, and possibly subject to HSE prosecution.

Must I have my asbestos removed?

If the asbestos is in poor condition or is likely to be damaged by normal occupation or refurbishment works, then you must take action.