Is Asbestos Removal Considered Routine Repair And Maintenance In Devon?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction up until the 1990s, due to its fireproof and insulating properties. However, it was later discovered that prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can cause serious health issues such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. This led to the ban of its use in construction in the UK in 1999. Despite the ban, many buildings still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), particularly those constructed before the ban.

As a result, the removal of ACMs is a crucial part of ensuring the safety of any building, particularly in Devon where there are many older properties. However, is asbestos removal considered a routine repair and maintenance task in Devon? In this landing page, we will explore the risks associated with asbestos, the importance of having an asbestos management plan, and how asbestos removal should be approached.

The Risk of Asbestos

Even in small amounts, asbestos fibers can cause serious health issues when they are inhaled. These fibers can become airborne when ACMs are disturbed, damaged, or during renovation or demolition work. This makes it especially dangerous for workers who handle, remove or disturb ACMs, creating dust and fibers that can be inhaled. Asbestos fibers can remain in the lungs for many years before causing harm, so it can take a long time for any symptoms to appear.

It is important to keep in mind that at least 5,000 people in the UK die each year as a result of exposure to asbestos, so it is not something that should be taken lightly. Thankfully, there are steps that can be taken to manage the risk of asbestos, including the creation of management plans.

The Importance of Having an Asbestos Management Plan

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 require that anyone who owns, manages or has control over non-domestic premises has a duty to manage asbestos. This includes the identification of ACMs, assessing the risk of exposure, and creating an asbestos management plan. It is important that any property owner in Devon takes their responsibility seriously when it comes to managing the risk of asbestos.

An asbestos management plan should include the following:

• A record of the location of any ACMs in the property
• An assessment of the condition of the ACMs and the risk they pose
• Details of any remedial work that is required
• A plan for how the ACMs will be managed and monitored in the future

By having an asbestos management plan in place, property owners can ensure that the risk of exposure to asbestos is minimized, protecting both workers and occupants.

Approaching Asbestos Removal

If ACMs are identified and are found to be in poor condition, damaged, or likely to be disturbed, it is important to remove them safely. However, removing asbestos is not something that should be taken lightly. In fact, it is illegal to remove certain types of asbestos without a license.

This is where Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon comes in. We are an asbestos removal company in Devon that specializes in the safe removal and disposal of ACMs. Our team of experienced professionals are licensed by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), which means that we are able to remove all types of asbestos, safely and legally.

Before any removal work takes place, our team will conduct a risk assessment to identify the level of risk posed by the ACMs and determine the appropriate level of personal protective equipment (PPE) required. This includes full face masks, disposable overalls, and gloves to protect from potential exposure to asbestos fibers.

Once the risk assessment has been completed and the appropriate PPE has been worn, we will begin the removal process. We use special encapsulation methods and negative pressure units to minimize the spread of fibers and ensure that the area is left clean and safe.

After the removal work has been completed, the ACMs will be safely disposed of at a licensed waste site, as required by law.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we understand the risks that asbestos poses and the importance of removing ACMs safely and legally. That is why we are committed to providing high-quality asbestos removal services to our clients in Devon and the wider South West England region.

To find out more about our services, please feel free to contact us on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected]. Alternatively, you can visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-devon.co.uk for more information or to request a quote.

In conclusion, asbestos removal is not something that should be considered a routine repair and maintenance task in Devon, but rather a crucial step in ensuring the safety of any building. By following an asbestos management plan and working with a licensed and experienced asbestos removal company, property owners can minimize the risks associated with ACMs and ensure the safety of anyone who may be on the premises.