Asbestos Removal

Dangers and Associated Health Risks

The use of asbestos is banned in all building structures in as much as 60 countries across the globe. This ban has been in place since 1999 due to the dangers and risks associated with the material. It is believed that around 5000 workers are killed each year as a result of exposure to asbestos.

Exposure to asbestos can cause life-threatening diseases like:

• Cancer of the lining of the lungs and stomach (Mesothelioma)
• Lung cancer
• Scarring of the lungs (Asbestosis)
• Diffuse pleural thickening

Properties built pre-1999 that are still standing may have asbestos containing materials within their structure. Failure to remove these materials safely and responsibly can cause long-term exposure to air-borne asbestos particles. This can often have fatal consequences.

Difference Between Licensed and Non-Licensed

The process of asbestos removal is often categorised and labelled as either licensable or non-licensed. Each one offers its own appropriate measures, applicable actions and preventative methods. Different qualifications are required to remove each category too.

Licensable Asbestos Removal

This refers to activities that involve significant hazard or risk and must be performed by a licensed contractor. These licenses are issued and granted by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). They will state that all work in this area must be brought to the attention of the ‘appropriate enforcing authority.

Non-Licensed Asbestos Removal

This type of asbestos removal still requires training and qualification – but a licence is not always necessary. This is usually due to lower associated risks.

Which One is Best for Me?

Knowing which method or category is best suited to your requirements will involve a risk assessment. This is something you should conduct before any asbestos-related work in truth. The assessments and the results they produce should provide key bits of information, like the asbestos type and the recommended level of protection etc.