How To Test For Asbestos In Artex In Devon

Asbestos was widely used in many construction materials and products until its complete ban in the UK in 1999. However, asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are still present in many buildings erected before this time, such as Artex coating applied to ceilings or textured finishes. Inhaling asbestos fibres can result in serious respiratory conditions, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Therefore, testing for asbestos in Artex is vital for ensuring the safety of building occupants and workers involved in any renovation or demolition activities.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is an experienced asbestos testing company in Devon, offering a comprehensive range of services to identify and manage ACMs. In this guide, we will explain the basics of asbestos, Artex, and how to test for asbestos in Artex in Devon.

Asbestos - What is it?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with high tensile strength, heat resistance, and insulation properties. It was extensively used in the UK construction industry until the late 20th century, mainly in insulating materials, flooring, coatings, and roofing products.

Asbestos can be broadly classified into six types based on their physical properties and fibre size: chrysotile (white asbestos), crocidolite (blue asbestos), amosite (brown asbestos), tremolite, anthophyllite, and actinolite. All six types of asbestos have been proven to cause cancer and other lung diseases when inhaled. However, chrysotile is the most common type and is found in about 90% of asbestos products used in the UK.

Artex - What is it?

Artex is a textured coating applied to walls or ceilings to provide a decorative finish. Artex was widely used in the UK from the 1960s to the 1980s and contained asbestos fibres as a strengthening agent until its complete ban in 1999.

Artex coatings come in various textured patterns, such as swirl, stipple, or bark. They were popular due to their cost-effectiveness, ease of application, and durability. However, Artex is a friable material, which means it can release asbestos fibres when disturbed, such as when drilling or sanding during renovations.

Why Test for Asbestos in Artex?

Testing for asbestos in Artex is vital for protecting building occupants and workers from the harmful effects of asbestos exposure. Asbestos fibres are tiny and invisible to the naked eye, and inhaling them can lead to serious respiratory conditions, including asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer.

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR) require dutyholders, such as property owners, landlords, and employers, to manage the risks of ACMs in their premises. This includes identifying and assessing the condition of ACMs, developing a plan to manage and control the risks, and providing information, instruction, and training to workers and building occupants.

Testing for asbestos in Artex is the first step in managing the risks of ACMs. If Artex is found to contain asbestos, appropriate measures can be taken to manage or remove the material safely, such as sealing it or encapsulating it with a protective coating. If Artex is in good condition and not going to be disturbed, it may be safer to leave it in place and monitor its condition regularly.

How To Test for Asbestos in Artex in Devon?

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is an experienced and licensed asbestos testing company in Devon, providing affordable and reliable asbestos testing services to domestic and commercial clients. Here are the steps we follow to test for asbestos in Artex in Devon:

1. Site Survey - Our asbestos surveyor will visit your premises to conduct a visual inspection of the suspected Artex areas and take samples of the material for laboratory analysis. They will also record the location, extent, and condition of any ACMs found in the premises.

2. Laboratory Analysis - Our samples are sent to a UKAS-accredited laboratory for analysis using polarised light microscopy (PLM). PLM is the most common and reliable method to identify asbestos fibres in materials accurately. The laboratory provides a report that indicates the type and percentage of asbestos present in the material.

3. Results and Recommendations - We provide you with a comprehensive report that highlights the presence, location, and condition of any ACMs found in your premises. We will also provide recommendations and advice on how to manage the risks of ACMs safely, including whether the Artex should be removed or managed in place.

4. Asbestos Management Plan - If ACMs are found in your premises, we will develop an asbestos management plan tailored to your premises' specific needs. The plan outlines how to manage and control the risks of ACMs, including regular inspections and monitoring, safe work procedures, and emergency response plans.

Conclusion

Asbestos-containing materials, such as Artex coating, are still present in many older buildings in Devon and the UK, and can pose serious health risks when disturbed. Testing for asbestos in Artex is essential for managing and controlling the risks of ACMs and protecting building occupants and workers from asbestos exposure.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a trusted and licensed asbestos testing company in Devon, providing affordable and reliable asbestos testing services to domestic and commercial clients. Contact us on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected] to arrange an asbestos survey or for any advice on managing the risks of asbestos in your premises. Visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-devon.co.uk for more information about our services and testimonials from our satisfied clients.