Where Asbestos Lives
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An Introduction to Asbestos
Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral fibre, has been widely used in construction and various industries due to its desirable properties such as heat resistance, durability, and insulating capabilities.
Here in the UK, there are three commonly known types of asbestos: chrysotile (white asbestos), amosite (brown asbestos), and crocidolite (blue asbestos).
Chrysotile is the most frequently encountered type and was commonly used in building materials like cement products, ceiling tiles, and insulation.
Amosite and crocidolite, on the other hand, were often utilised in insulation boards, pipe lagging, and spray coatings.
It is important to note that all types of asbestos pose significant health risks when disturbed, as they release microscopic fibres into the air that can be inhaled and lead to serious health conditions, including lung diseases and cancer. Understanding where asbestos is commonly found in properties is crucial for its proper management and removal, which is the focus of our dedicated page.
Banned in 1999
Asbestos can be found in any industrial or residential building built or refurbished before the year 2000.
Found in building materials
Found in many building materials used pre 2000 making it highly likely to be in buildings.
Asbestos is still very much a threat to the public and those who work within the trade industry. It must be handled with extreme caution by trained & licensed professionals
INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY
The below image highlights the potential locations where asbestos can be found within residential properties that were built prior to 2000.
*Created by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE).
What you should do
If you discover suspected damaged asbestos we recommend you follow the below 4 steps:
01
Stop
If you discover asbestos, it is vital to immediately cease any activities that may disturb the material to prevent further fibre release.
02
Evacuate
Ensure the safety of yourself and others by promptly evacuating the area where asbestos has been found, minimising the risk of exposure.
03
Contact us
Reach out to WestCross Environmental Services without delay, as we are equipped to handle asbestos-related situations with expertise and professionalism.
04
Keep out
Restrict access to the affected area and prevent unauthorised entry to minimise the risk of exposure to asbestos fibres until our team arrives to assess and address the situation.
