Can You Be In The House While Asbestos Is Being Removed In Devon?

Introduction

Asbestos has been used for ages due to its useful properties. It is fire-resistant and is an excellent insulator. However, the material is highly toxic and exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to lung disease, including the deadly cancer, mesothelioma. Asbestos was only banned in the UK in 1999, which means that many buildings still contain this hazardous material. It is estimated that 5000 people in the UK die every year due to asbestos-related illnesses.

If you live in a house that contains asbestos or suspect that you may have asbestos-containing materials, you may need to have it removed. But can you be in the house while asbestos is being removed? In this article, we will explore the answer to this question in the context of Devon, specifically hiring a professional asbestos removal company in Devon.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is an asbestos removal company located in Devon, South West England. We offer affordable asbestos removal services for homes and commercial properties. Our team of professionals is highly trained and experienced in handling asbestos removal.

We understand that asbestos removal can be a daunting and frightening experience for many people. Our aim is to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible while ensuring the safety of our clients. We follow all safety regulations and guidelines set by the UK government, and all our work is fully insured and guaranteed.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we offer a range of services such as asbestos surveying, removal, encapsulation, and disposal. We also provide asbestos management plans and consultancy services. If you suspect that your property may have asbestos, we recommend getting in touch with us to book a survey and have your property assessed.

Asbestos and its Properties

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the UK construction industry up until the 1990s due to its insulating and fire-resistant properties. Asbestos was used in a variety of materials, including insulation, ceiling tiles, and pipe lagging. Exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious lung diseases, such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer.

Asbestos fibers are incredibly small and can easily become airborne when disturbed. The fibers are invisible to the naked eye, and if inhaled, they can become lodged deep in the lungs, where they can cause damage over time. Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are not dangerous if left undisturbed. However, if an ACM is damaged, it can release asbestos fibers, which is dangerous.

Hiring a Professional Asbestos Removal Company in Devon

If you suspect that your property may contain asbestos, it is crucial to hire a professional asbestos removal company to assess and remove the material. Attempting to remove asbestos yourself can be extremely dangerous and should never be attempted.

When hiring an asbestos removal company, you should ensure that they are fully licensed and accredited. The company should follow all health and safety guidelines set by the UK government and provide evidence of their insurance and licenses.

A professional asbestos removal company will conduct a survey of your property to determine the extent of the asbestos-containing materials. They will then create a plan for the removal and disposal of the materials. The company will use specialized equipment and protective gear to ensure that the removal process is safe for both the workers and the occupants.

Can You Be In The House While Asbestos Is Being Removed?

The answer to this question is that it depends on the extent of the asbestos removal work being carried out. In some cases, it may be safe for occupants to remain in the house while the work is being done. However, in other cases, it may be necessary to vacate the property temporarily.

If the asbestos-containing material is contained within one room or area of the property, it may be possible to isolate the area and continue to live in the rest of the house. This will depend on the amount of asbestos being removed and the overall risk to health.

If the asbestos-containing material is located in a high-traffic area or if there is extensive work being done, it may be necessary to vacate the property temporarily. This is to ensure the safety of the occupants and to prevent the spread of asbestos fibers.

It is essential to consult with the asbestos removal company before work begins to determine the best course of action for your specific situation. The company will be able to provide advice on whether or not it is safe for you to remain in the house during the removal work.

The Importance of Documenting Asbestos Removal

If you are having asbestos removed from your property, it is essential to document the process thoroughly. This is essential for the safety of any future occupants of the property and for any legal requirements that may arise.

It is essential to keep all paperwork related to the asbestos removal, including the survey reports, risk assessments, and method statements. This documentation will provide evidence that the asbestos was removed safely and in accordance with all health and safety regulations.

The General Process of Asbestos Removal

The general process of asbestos removal involves the following steps:

1. Survey - A survey is carried out to identify any asbestos-containing materials in the property.
2. Risk assessment - A risk assessment is carried out to determine the risk to health of the asbestos-containing material.
3. Method statement - A method statement is created detailing how the removal work will take place.
4. Protective gear - Workers wear specialized protective gear, including masks, gloves, and overalls.
5. Removal - The asbestos-containing material is removed using specialized equipment.
6. Cleanup - The work area is thoroughly cleaned and cleared of any asbestos fibers.
7. Disposal - The asbestos-containing material is disposed of in a safe and regulated manner at a licensed disposal site.
8. Documentation - All paperwork related to the asbestos removal is kept for future reference.

The Risks of Dust and Fibers Containing Asbestos

Asbestos fibers are extremely hazardous when inhaled. The fibers can become lodged in the lungs, leading to lung disease and cancer. Dust and fibers containing asbestos can easily become airborne when disturbed during the removal process.

Professional asbestos removal companies take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of the workers and the occupants of the property. All work is carried out in a controlled environment, and specialized equipment is used to ensure that asbestos fibers do not escape into the air.

Contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon

If you suspect that your property may contain asbestos, it is essential to contact a professional asbestos removal company. Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a licensed and accredited asbestos removal company based in Devon, South West England.

Our team of professionals is highly trained and experienced in handling asbestos removal. We follow all health and safety guidelines set by the UK government, and all our work is fully insured and guaranteed.

To book a survey or to discuss your asbestos removal needs, please give us a call on 01962 458066, or email us at [email protected]. You can also visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-devon.co.uk for more information.

Conclusion

Living in a house while asbestos is being removed in Devon is possible in some situations. However, the answer ultimately depends on the extent and type of asbestos removal work that is being carried out. It is essential to hire a professional asbestos removal company to assess and remove the asbestos-containing material safely.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we offer affordable and reliable asbestos removal services in Devon and the surrounding areas. Our team of professionals is trained and experienced in handling asbestos removal. We follow all health and safety guidelines set by the UK government and aim to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible for our clients.

To book a survey or to discuss your asbestos removal needs, please give us a call on 01962 458066, or email us at [email protected].