Asbestos was once widely used in construction due to its durability and heat-resistant properties. However, its dangers became evident over time, leading to strict regulations on its use and removal.
Asbestos Removal is now an essential service to ensure public health and safety. This article explores the dangers of asbestos, the types of asbestos, the importance of professional asbestos removal companies, and highlights four top asbestos removal specialists in the UK.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of microscopic fibres. When these fibres become airborne and inhaled, they can cause severe health problems. Due to these risks, the UK banned asbestos use in 1999, yet it remains in many older buildings.
Dangers of Asbestos
The dangers of asbestos arise when its fibres are released into the air and inhaled. Prolonged exposure can cause serious diseases, including:
- Asbestosis – A chronic lung disease caused by asbestos fibre inhalation, leading to scarring of lung tissue and breathing difficulties.
- Mesothelioma – A rare and aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs and abdomen.
- Lung Cancer – Exposure to asbestos significantly increases the risk of lung cancer, particularly in smokers.
- Pleural Thickening – A condition where the lung lining thickens, leading to breathlessness and discomfort.
Given the dangers of asbestos, proper management and removal are crucial to maintaining a safe environment.
Types of Asbestos
There are three primary types of asbestos found in buildings:
- Chrysotile (White Asbestos) – The most commonly used asbestos, found in ceilings, walls, roofs, and flooring.
- Amosite (Brown Asbestos) – Frequently used in insulation boards and cement sheets, known for its high risk to health.
- Crocidolite (Blue Asbestos) – Found in pipe insulation and shipbuilding materials, this type is the most dangerous due to its brittle fibres.
Understanding the types of asbestos is vital in identifying and safely removing contaminated materials.
The Importance of Professional Asbestos Removal
Due to the dangers of asbestos, its removal must be conducted by licensed professionals. DIY removal is strongly discouraged, as disturbing asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) can release hazardous fibres into the air.
Steps in the Asbestos Removal Process
- Survey and Risk Assessment – Identifying the presence and condition of asbestos.
- Containment and Safety Measures – Sealing off the area to prevent contamination.
- Safe Removal and Disposal – Using specialised equipment and protective gear.
- Air Monitoring and Clearance Testing – Ensuring no asbestos fibres remain in the environment.
Why Choose Licensed Asbestos Removal Companies?
- Compliance with Regulations – Professionals follow UK asbestos regulations, ensuring legal and safe removal.
- Proper Equipment and Training – Certified specialists use advanced techniques to minimise exposure risks.
- Safe Waste Disposal – Licensed contractors ensure asbestos waste is disposed of at authorised facilities.
Top Four Asbestos Removal Companies in the UK
To help you find reliable asbestos removal specialists, here are four highly recommended asbestos removal companies in the UK:
1. AGS Asbestos Limited
- Provides comprehensive asbestos surveying, removal, and disposal services.
- Fully licensed and insured, following strict UK asbestos regulations.
- Offers services to domestic, commercial, and industrial properties.
2. Kadec Asbestos Management
- Specialises in asbestos surveys, management plans, and safe removals.
- Works with homeowners, businesses, and local authorities.
- Focuses on environmentally friendly disposal methods.
3. AMI Environmental
- Experienced in asbestos removal, encapsulation, and consultancy.
- Uses state-of-the-art equipment to ensure safe removal.
- Provides services across various sectors, including healthcare and construction.
4. Oracle Solutions Asbestos Removal
- National coverage with highly trained asbestos removal experts.
- Offers emergency response services for high-risk asbestos cases.
- Provides detailed asbestos testing and air monitoring services.
Conclusion
Asbestos removal is a crucial process for maintaining a safe environment in older buildings.
Given the dangers of asbestos, it is essential to work with licensed asbestos removal companies that adhere to safety regulations.
Understanding the types of asbestos present in a property can help in making informed decisions regarding its management and removal.
If you suspect asbestos in your home or workplace, do not attempt to remove it yourself.
Contact a professional asbestos removal company to ensure safe and compliant removal procedures.
By taking the right precautions, the risks associated with asbestos exposure can be significantly reduced, ensuring a healthier environment for all.
