Asbestos

 
 

Asbestos - What is it?

The following pages provide important information for residents and those who own, occupy or manage non-domestic premises.  Please click on the links in the left hand navigation for further information.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of extremely small fibres. The mineral is mined and milled and it is this fibrous form that has been historically used in a wide range of building materials. These are commonly known as Asbestos Containing Materials (ACMs).

The term ACM is used because the fibres are almost always mixed with other materials to form the finished product.

Why is it Dangerous?

If ACMs are disturbed or if they are in poor condition they can release large numbers of needle shaped fibres which can be breathed into the lungs. These fibres lodge in the lungs and can lead to several diseases, some of which are fatal. Asbestos related disorders account for about 3000 deaths each year.

Who is at Risk?

Building contractors, plumbers, electricians and decorators are particularly at risk because they can often work on and disturb ACMs without realising what they are. It is for this reason that the Health and Safety Executive considered it was necessary to issue an explicit new regulation requiring the effective management of asbestos in non-domestic premises. (This new duty may be found in Regulation 4 of the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2002. Tell me more about the law.)

Where is it found in Buildings?

ACMs were widely used in building construction between 1945 and 1985. Large quantities of ACMs remain in buildings built or refurbished during that period. Prohibition regulations issued between 1985 and 1999 progressively banned the use of asbestos except for very specific and specialised purposes. You are most likely to come across asbestos in these materials:

  • Sprayed asbestos and asbestos loose packing – generally used as fire protection
  • Moulded or pre-formed lagging – used as thermal insulation to pipes and boilers
  • Asbestos Insulating Board (AIB) – used for fire protection and thermal insulation or as partitions and ducting.
  • Asbestos cement products – these are generally moulded into corrugated roofing sheets, cladding, guttering, downpipes, flues and water tanks