Do I Need A Licence To Remove Asbestos Cement in Devon?

If you are living or working in Devon and suspect that your property contains asbestos cement, you may be wondering whether you need a licence to remove it. The answer to this question is not straightforward, and it depends on a variety of factors, such as the type of work being undertaken and the level of risk to health.

In this article, we will explore the different types of asbestos removal work, the regulations that govern this work, and the potential health risks associated with exposure to asbestos. We will also introduce Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, a leading asbestos removal company in Devon that can help you safely and legally remove asbestos from your property.

Types of Asbestos Removal Work

Before we dive into the regulations surrounding asbestos removal, it's important to understand the different types of work that fall under this umbrella term. Here are the three main types of asbestos removal work:

1. Licensed Work: This is the most hazardous type of asbestos removal work and must only be carried out by licensed contractors. Examples of licensed work include the removal of sprayed coatings, insulation, and asbestos insulating board.

2. Notifiable Non-Licensed Work (NNLW): This type of work is not as hazardous as licensed work but still requires notification to the appropriate regulatory body. NNLW includes the removal of asbestos cement, such as asbestos roof sheets and flues.

3. Non-Licensed Work (NLW): This type of work is the least hazardous and includes activities such as drilling holes in asbestos materials and removing asbestos-containing floor tiles. NLW does not require notification, but it must still be carried out safely and in accordance with health and safety regulations.

Regulations Surrounding Asbestos Removal

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is responsible for regulating asbestos removal work in the UK. The HSE has established guidelines and regulations that must be followed to ensure the safe removal of asbestos and the protection of the public and workers from exposure to asbestos fibres.

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 stipulates that licensed contractors must be used for any work that involves the removal of asbestos insulation, asbestos insulating board, or sprayed asbestos coatings. These materials are considered to be the most hazardous and require specialist equipment and training to remove safely.

Asbestos cement, on the other hand, does not fall under the licensed work category but is instead classified as NNLW. However, this does not mean that asbestos cement can be removed without any precautions or safety measures. NNLW requires notification to the HSE, and the work must be carried out by trained individuals who follow strict guidelines to avoid exposure to asbestos dust and fibres.

The HSE has published a variety of resources to help individuals and businesses understand the regulations surrounding asbestos removal. These resources include guidance on asbestos awareness training, risk assessments, and the safe removal of asbestos.

Health Risks Associated with Asbestos Exposure

Exposure to asbestos fibres can result in serious health conditions, such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. These health conditions are primarily caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibres, which can become lodged in the lungs and cause scarring and inflammation.

Asbestos-related diseases can take years or even decades to develop, and symptoms may not appear until long after the initial exposure has occurred. There is no cure for asbestos-related diseases, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

It is important to take precautions when working with or around asbestos to avoid exposing yourself and others to asbestos fibres. This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), following safe work practices, and properly disposing of asbestos waste.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon

If you suspect that your property contains asbestos cement or other asbestos-containing materials, it is crucial that you seek the help of a professional asbestos removal company. Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a leading asbestos removal company in Devon that can help you safely and legally remove asbestos from your property.

We are licensed by the HSE to carry out asbestos removal work and have over 20 years of experience in the industry. Our team of trained professionals follows strict guidelines and safety procedures to ensure that all asbestos removal work is conducted safely and effectively.

Our services include asbestos surveys, asbestos removal, and asbestos waste disposal. We pride ourselves on providing affordable and reliable asbestos removal services to our clients across Devon and the South West of England.

Contact us today on 01962 458066 to discuss your asbestos removal needs and to receive a free quote. Alternatively, you can email us at [email protected] or visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-devon.co.uk to learn more about our services. Don't take any chances with your health trust Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon for all your asbestos removal needs.