What is Asbestos? And why was it so popular?
Asbestos is the name given to a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals that crystallise into strong, flexible fibres. These fibres are resistant to water, fire, electricity and chemicals, making them highly effective for construction.
There are two sub-groups: serpentine and amphiboles. The most widely used was chrysotile, or white asbestos, part of the serpentine group. Its fibres are softer and more flexible, but still dangerous. Amphibole asbestos, including crocidolite (blue), amosite (brown), tremolite, actinolite, and anthophyllite, contains brittle, needle-like fibres that are more hazardous to health.
Due to health risks linked to inhalation, the UK banned the importation of blue and brown asbestos in 1985, and extended the ban to include white asbestos in 1999.
Why is it so dangerous?
Today, many know about the dangers of asbestos, but few are aware of quite how much of a silent killer can be. To begin, it is important to note that asbestos is only dangerous when inhaled. And, while no amount of asbestos exposure is safe, it’s secret weapon comes is derived from its colourless, odourless and tasteless properties. Additionally, asbestos crystals are often very small – too small to be seen with the naked eye – meaning it stay suspended in the air or water for long periods of time. This means people could be exposed for decades – enough time for a disease called asbestosis to occur. Even at low ever concentrations, prolonged exposure to asbestos over time may result in a thickening of the lung lining.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies all forms of asbestos as carcinogenic. Exposure can lead to mesothelioma, a cancer affecting the lungs or abdomen, as well as lung cancer ,laryngeal cancer, and ovarian cancer.
Vulnerable people and people with respiratory conditions like asthma may be more sensitive to the effects of airborne asbestos fibres, as the sharp crystals can irritate and scar the lungs, leading to shortness of breath and respiratory issues.
Although studies suggest that asbestos does not cause birth defects, children are at greater long-term risk of developing mesothelioma due to their longer life expectancy.
Where can asbestos hide?
Although we’re fortunate that asbestos is no longer used in surgical thread, toothpaste, or most modern cosmetics, the reality is that it still poses a serious threat in the built environment. Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) remain disturbingly common in buildings constructed before the UK ban in 1999; especially across Sussex and the South East, where many older properties are still in use.
Common building materials where asbestos can still be found include:
· Lagging on pipework
· Fireproof panels and insulation boards
· Asbestos cement used in roofing
· Sprayed coatings on structural steel for fire and noise insulation
· Floor tiles and textured decorative coatings
It can also be hidden in more obscure places, such as cavity walls, boiler rooms, and even industrial kitchen equipment. For example, asbestos linings were historically used in large baking ovens to contain heat. Over time, this insulation would deteriorate, releasing fibres into the air – and even onto food. These risks reinforce the importance of professional asbestos sampling, air monitoring and expert remediation management.
While the UK has banned all forms of asbestos, it’s important to understand that this is not yet the global norm. Asbestosis still legal in nearly 70% of the world, including in major industrial nations. This means imported products, particularly cosmetics, talcum powders, or low-cost building materials, may still contain asbestos, putting users at risk.
Property owners and managers must remain vigilant, not only about what’s in the building structure, but also in the products being used within it.
What to do if you think you have been exposed to asbestos
If the asbestos-containing material is intact and unlikely to be disturbed, it is unlikely to pose a risk. However, if fibres are released into the air:
· Remove yourself from the area.
· Do not shake or brush off fibres. Instead, use a damp cloth and a gentle patting motion to remove dust from skin and clothing.
· Carefully remove contaminated clothing without pulling it over your head. Seal it in a plastic bag with the used cloth.
· Contact your local authority for disposal advice.
If you are worried about your health, contact your GP or call NHS 111.
If asbestos is found in your home, do not attempt to remove it yourself. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) advises contacting your local council or a professional asbestos consultancy. For specialist advice and asbestos surveys in Sussex and the South East, Summit Environmental can help.
Maintaining property safety requires understanding where risks hide – and how to manage them.
For expert support to maintain the safety of your facilities, get in touch.
