Asbestos Disposal

Asbestos

Asbestos was extensively used as a building material in the UK from the 1950s through to the mid 1980s. It was used for a variety of purposes and was ideal for fireproofing and insulation. Any building built before 2000 can contain asbestos.

Asbestos is safe when it is undamaged and in good condition. It becomes dangerous when damaged and the fibres become airborne and are inhaled. A key factor in the risk of developing an asbestos related disease is the total number of fibres breathed in.

What should you do if you think you may have asbestos in your home?

Lancashire County Council's Scientific Services are able to offer an asbestos testing service. Contact them for more information on 01772 721660, or by emailing scientificservices@lancashire.gov.uk

It is often best to leave asbestos which is in good condition and unlikely to get damaged where it is, and check it from time to time to make sure it hasn't deteriorated.
 
Any badly damaged asbestos which is likely to become further damaged should be removed if it can't be protected. Some materials should only be removed by a contractor licensed by the HSE
 
If you are planning any DIY home improvements or repairs and are intending to involve tradesmen in the work, remember to inform them of any asbestos containing materials in your home before they start work on your property.This will reduce the risks of any asbestos containing materials from being disturbed.
 

If you're going to do the work yourseIf

Use handtools - not power tools

Have all the wrapping materials ready before you start the work

Keep materials damp - but not too wet

Wear a properly fitted suitable mask. An ordinary dust mask will not be effective

Clean as you go. Use a special vacuum cleaner, not a brush

Ensure the asbestos is appropriately wrapped

Wear disposable overalls, one size too big to avoid ripping

Remove your overalls before removing your mask

Do not wash the overalls. Place them in the wrapping with the rest of the asbestos and dispose of them properly

Wear boots without laces which can be easily washed clean, or use disposable boot covers

 

Remember

Asbestos containing materials are hazardous waste and need to be appropriately and legally disposed of

Asbestos should NEVER be mixed with normal household waste.
Disposing of asbestos in this way poses a serious threat to the health of those individuals who come into contact with the waste after it has been collected from your doorstep. In Lancashire this includes the people working in the waste recovery parks at Farington and Thornton, as well as the operatives who empty your bin.

Asbestos should ALWAYS be disposed of at the household waste recycling centre, properly wrapped and sealed, or by a properly licenced contractor.