What to Do if You Discover Asbestos Mid Project

Carrying out building or renovation work can sometimes reveal unexpected issues. One of the most serious is when you find asbestos. Disturbing asbestos can release dangerous fibres into the air, creating significant health risks. In the UK, asbestos is strictly regulated under the Control of Asbestos Regulations and there are clear legal requirements about how to deal with it safely.

Identifying Asbestos During a Project

Asbestos was widely used in building materials until it was banned in 1999. It may still be found in older properties, especially in ceiling tiles, insulation, textured coatings, pipe lagging and floor tiles. These materials, known as asbestos containing materials (ACMs), can look similar to modern products, making identifying asbestos difficult without testing.

If you suspect ACMs, do not touch them. Contact professionals who can carry out asbestos surveys to confirm.

Immediate Steps if You Find Asbestos

• If you discover or suspect asbestos in your work area:
• Stop work straight away to avoid further disturbance.
• Prevent access and seal off the area to reduce exposure.
• Do not attempt to remove asbestos yourself. It is unsafe to work with asbestos without the right training and protective equipment.

Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure

Being exposed to asbestos fibres can cause serious long-term health problems. Inhalation is linked to diseases such as asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer. Even small amounts of disturbed asbestos can create risks, so it is essential to act quickly and carefully.

The Role of Professionals

The safest way to handle asbestos is to bring in a licensed asbestos removal contractor. These specialists are trained to remove asbestos in line with legal requirements and health and safety guidance. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) sets out strict rules for asbestos management and disposal. A licensed contractor will:

• Assess the type of asbestos present
• Prepare the work area and put control measures in place
• Use suitable protective equipment
• Remove asbestos safely and dispose of it at an approved site

Asbestos Management and Compliance

Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations, duty holders, including property owners and contractors, must manage asbestos responsibly. This includes arranging asbestos surveys where there is a risk of ACMs, keeping an asbestos register and updating management plans. Failure to comply can result in prosecution, as well as putting lives at risk.

Types of Asbestos

There are several types of asbestos, including chrysotile (white), amosite (brown) and crocidolite (blue). All forms are hazardous and must be handled with the same caution. A survey will determine what type of asbestos is present and how it should be dealt with.

Key Advice

• Never try to remove asbestos yourself.
• Always stop work and seek professional guidance.
• Follow advice from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
• Use only licensed asbestos removal contractors.
• Ensure protective equipment is used and disposal is carried out legally.

Conclusion

Finding asbestos mid project can be unsettling, but knowing how to respond will protect workers and occupants. Stop work, secure the work area and call in a professional. By following legal requirements and expert advice, asbestos can be managed safely and effectively.

If you need help with asbestos surveys, asbestos management, or safe removal, Summit Environmental is here to support you.