Removing asbestos

Asbestos fibres and dust are very dangerous if inhaled in high concentrations over a period of time. They can cause serious lung diseases including cancer. The symptoms of these diseases often do not appear for between 20-30 years after exposure.

Many people worry about asbestos, but if left undisturbed, it usually poses no problem. Care should be taken, however, to prevent the release of fibres and specialists need to be contacted if removal of the substance is required.

Some of the areas in your home where you may find asbestos include:

• Eaves, gutters and rainwater fall pipes
• Fire blankets
• Garage and shed roofs
• Linings for walls, ceilings and doors
• Insulation panels in some storage heaters
• Bath panels
• Central heating flues
• Loose asbestos packing between floors and in partition walls
• Floor tile

It is hard to identify asbestos, but if you believe that you are living with asbestos:

• Do not panic, leave asbestos alone, it's safe unless it's damaged or disturbed.
• Never sand, drill or saw asbestos materials.
• Always seek professional advice before thinking of removing asbestos materials.
• Do not attempt to remove asbestos lagging, spray coatings or insulation board by yourself. These materials can only be safely removed by a licensed contractor.

If you do choose to remove the non-licensable asbestos materials yourself, you should take the following precautions:

• Wear a dust mask approved for asbestos.
• Wear a disposable overall.
• Keep other people away from the working area.
• Wet the material well with water containing a little washing up liquid; check that there is no potential for contact with electricity first.
• Always remove whole sheets or components; do not break them up.
• Place any loose or small items in strong plastic labelled bags and seal.
• Clean up all dust with a damp cloth and then seal it in a plastic bag whilst damp.
• Do not use a domestic vacuum cleaner as dust may pass through the filter.

When removing asbestos make sure it is disposed of separately from your normal household waste. Your local council usually offers facilities that you can use to dispose of hazardous waste. Contact your local council for further details.

http://www.direct.gov.uk