Asbestos Questions Answered!
Archive for June, 2010
Is asbestos still used in building materials?
Jun 25th
In the UK and across the EU asbestos is no longer used in building materials. Previously it was used extensively due to its fire resistant properties. This was common throughout the 20th century, and particularly from the 1950s onwards as rebuilding was extensive after the Second World War. This continued right up until the end of the century, because it remained unknown for a long time that asbestos is dangerous when its fibres are inhaled. It took so long for this to be discovered because the latency period of the affects taking place can be up to 40 years. Now thousands of tradesmen such as plumbers, ship yard workers, joiners, and builders die every year because of asbestos, and so it is banned from use.
This does not mean it is no longer a danger though. Many buildings still contain the deadly fibres hidden within building materials. It is important that everyone becomes more aware of where asbestos may be, so less people become affected by asbestos related diseases. Professional asbestos management teams can deal with asbestos legally and safely.
Can anyone remove asbestos?
Jun 14th
The short answer to this is no. The HSE generally require anyone handling asbestos to carry a license to do so. It is essential that this is adhered to, in order to ensure that no one who does not know the dangers of asbestos and how to handle it safely is exposed to the lethal asbestos fibres. If asbestos is disturbed, its fibres will be released into the air and can then easily be breathed into the lungs by anyone nearby. Once in the lungs, asbestos fibres become highly dangerous. They can cause many serious and even deadly illnesses.
To avoid this, it is best practice to make sure only someone with the knowledge and skills required is set the task of handling or removing any material that is likely to contain asbestos. Licensed asbestos management consultants will be prepared with the correct personal protective equipment needed to ensure complete safety around asbestos.
