Asbestos is a highly toxic and dangerous substance. Exposure to asbestos fibres can cause a range of serious and life-threatening conditions such as pleural disease, mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. Because the effects of asbestos take many years to become known, these conditions are usually fatal.

Important Guidelines to Consider When Detecting Asbestos in Your Home and Business Spaces

Asbestos is a highly toxic and dangerous substance. Exposure to asbestos fibres can cause a range of serious and life-threatening conditions such as pleural disease, mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. Because the effects of asbestos take many years to become known, these conditions are usually fatal. 

The use of asbestos in the UK was banned in the 1990s, but houses built up until the late 1980s can still contain asbestos. It is important to always have your home or business professionally inspected if you suspect there may be asbestos there. If you think asbestos is in your home or business, follow the below guidelines:

Check Walls, Cellars, and Attic Spaces for Asbestos Containing Materials

Asbestos was commonly used for insulation purposes and as a fire retardant. It can often be found in attics and cellars, especially in homes that were built before 1999. Asbestos is most commonly in the form of:

• Cement asbestos sheeting – Often found in attics as roof insulation. This insulation must not be broken or damaged as this can release fibres.
• Vinyl asbestos tiles – Often found in bathrooms or other areas that are exposed to water. This insulation can release fibres as it often becomes degraded.
• Spray on asbestos coatings – Often found on walls as insulation. This is a highly toxic and dangerous form of asbestos. 

Never Disturb Asbestos Containing Materials

Has any work been done on your home or business? If so, asbestos may have been released. If you do suspect that your home or office has asbestos-containing materials, do not disturb or move them. A professional residential and commercial asbestos removal company should be contacted before you attempt to remove the materials or perform any kind of renovation or remodelling work. 

Who Can Remove Asbestos?

Only specially trained and licenced experts can safely test for asbestos and remove asbestos-containing materials. Always contact a reputable asbestos removal company before attempting to remove asbestos materials yourself. Bristol Asbestos provides professional residential and commercial asbestos removal services. Call our team immediately if you encounter any material that may contain asbestos. For other key considerations when detecting asbestos in your home or business read our other blog article.

Contact Bristol Asbestos for residential and commercial asbestos removal services.