What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is the name given to a group of naturally occurring minerals used in certain products, such as building materials and vehicle brakes, to resist heat and corrosion. Asbestos is a Class One carcinogen whose types include chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, tremolite, anthophyllite and actinolite asbestos, and any of these materials that have been chemically treated and/or altered.
The Dangers of Asbestos
The inhalation of asbestos fibres by workers can cause serious diseases of the lungs and other organs that may not appear until years after the exposure has occurred. For instance, asbestos can cause a build-up of scar-like tissue in the lungs and result in loss of lung function that often progresses to disability and death. Asbestos fibres associated with these health risks are too small to be seen with the naked eye, and smokers are at higher risk of developing some asbestos-related diseases.
What Should I Do?
Given all the detail above, firstly don’t panic. Longford Environmental will be able to assist and offer advice to ensure you are able to make an informed decision for the correct course of action.
Industrial and Commercial Properties
Everyone must start to take action now – even if all you have to do is to co-operate with the duty holder. If you are a duty holder you must:
Find out whether your building contains asbestos, and what condition it is in
Assess the risk, e.g. if it is likely to release fibres
Make a plan to manage that risk
The most comprehensive way to achieve this is to seek advice on the need for a survey of the property this would be the first step in compliance with Duty Holder Responsibilities under Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Exposure to Asbestos) Regulations 2006 as amended by the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Exposure to Asbestos) (Amendment) Regulations 2010.
Following on from the completion of the asbestos survey report, Longford Environmental will be able to assess the situation and offer advice on the next steps required for the site.
From an asbestos management plan to total removal, Longford Environmental have the knowledge and experience to assist in finding the safest and most practical solution required.