We’re all aware that asbestos is a dangerous material that releases harmful particles when it is disturbed. However, it’s surprising that when asbestos removal is concerned isn’t always performed in a safest feasible manner or by workers equipped with the appropriate education to be able to recognize the procedure they’re performing. In fact asbestos shouldn’t be removed even if absolutely necessary and it’s usually safer to leave in its natural state and unaffected by an asbestos management plan as well as regular inspections to evaluate its condition.
Actually, taking asbestos off yourself if you don’t have the correct understanding of the best way to do it safely could result in more harm than keeping the asbestos in place. Therefore, read this article if you’re thinking ‘Can I remove asbestos by myself?
What Does the Law Say about Who Can Dispose of Asbestos?
There are specific laws regarding who is legally allowed to take away asbestos.
As per the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) only a certified contractor can dispose of riskier asbestos-containing substances (ACMs). These comprise:
Sprayed asbestos coatings
Asbestos insulation
Asbestos lagging
The majority of jobs are done using asbestos insulating board (AIB)
These types of high-risk ACMs are definitely more hazardous to handle, which makes asbestos removal that is licensed a risky task. It requires specialized training and to adhere to specific working procedures including wearing high-end respiratory protection equipment (RPE) and regularly undergoing medical tests.
The mentioned substances are more likely to release asbestos in greater quantities upon removal than the less risky counterparts (for instance asbestos cement). This is because the work could be dangerous, and you require an HSE license to perform it legally.
Lower-Risk Materials
For certain asbestos removal jobs that require ACMs have a lower risk and aren’t a requirement for to obtain an asbestos-removal license legally. This is because exposed to asbestos in this type of work can’t be considered to be extremely risky, as long as you’ve put the proper precautionary steps in place.
But, about 10 years ago, new asbestos-related regulations were put into effect, establishing two kinds of work that is not licensed. One of them “notifiable non-licensed work,” also known as NNLW is a new category that imposes additional obligations for employers. This means that you’ll be required to inform the HSE with an ASBNN1W! form. The HSE provides a number of task sheets that outline the appropriate control procedures to be used for this type of asbestos removal. Additionally, some ACMs classified as releasing low-fibres on disturbance, can be eliminated without a license.
It’s normal sense (not not to mention, the most safe alternative) to delegate asbestos removal to experts Most of the time, it’s also a requirement of the law.
The disposal of asbestos without professional Assistance
Despite the necessity (in the majority of cases) to use a licensed contractor to perform asbestos removal tasks, a number of council refuse companies across the country will take the material and can eliminate it securely, effectively completing a portion in the asbestos elimination services. However, you will still need to remove the substance from the location of the building and take the material to an appropriate place. This could cause the fibers to be damaged further, and could release more fibres along the way.
It is, in essence, the responsibility of a professional who is able to do the job legally, and who is educated and certified. An experienced asbestos removal business is able to safely remove and eliminate ACMs in a safe manner, while minimizing risks both in taking away the material from the building, as well as the transportation and disposal of the materials.
There are other reasons to avoid removing asbestos yourself.
There are many reasons why it’s a good idea to consult an expert to handle the asbestos removal
If you’re doing the removal yourself, there’s a good chance that asbestos particles will remain in the air and will be a part of your business or home. An asbestos removal business will eliminate asbestos safely and completely and in a manner that does not further disrupt or release particles.
It is evident that a reputable asbestos business will be equipped with the proper PPE and safety equipment to ensure that they do not injure themselves or anyone else.
Professional asbestos removal services have the proper qualifications and skills and experience. an efficient, safe job.
Utilizing a professional, reputable firm that offers professional asbestos removal services provides you legal protection and absolute assurance. As per the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2022 removal of asbestos on your own could result in significant legal consequences.
If you don’t remove asbestos yourself, you’re not placing you or anyone else at risk of exposure to the deadly substance. Asbestos is still responsible for more than 5,000 preventable deaths each year and if you smoke, you’re particularly vulnerable. The adverse health effects can be severe with the most severe symptoms appearing several years or even decades after.
What is the time when Asbestos need to be removed?
If you suspect that there is a presence of ACMs It is essential to confirm this by conducting an asbestos survey as well as any testing that is appropriate. Most of the time, when asbestos is discovered, it can be kept where it is as long as it remains unaffected and in good shape, and likely to not be damaged or damaged at any time in the near future. It can also be sealed so that the risky fibres do not escape.
If you find that the existence of ACMs be discovered it is recommended to be able to put a proper asbestos-management plan to ensure that the materials are not disturbed and in good shape. This is, in fact, your legal obligation as per the Control of Asbestos Regulations (CAR) 2012 if you’re a landlord or manage public or commercial buildings.
But, if the ACMs are already disturbed or are in excellent condition, or construction and demolition work needs to be completed on site asbestos removal is needed and, if the project is an upgrade or demolition project, it will have to be accomplished prior to the work being completed. A specialist who offers asbestos removal services or other appropriately trained professionals can complete the task securely.
