Is Removal of Asbestos Paper Notifiable in Devon?

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we specialize in providing safe and affordable asbestos removal services in Devon and the South West of England. We understand the concerns that people have about the risks of asbestos exposure and the regulations surrounding asbestos removal, especially when it comes to asbestos paper. In this article, well discuss whether the removal of asbestos paper is notifiable in Devon and what you need to know if youre planning any asbestos-related work.

What is Asbestos Paper?

Asbestos paper, also known as asbestos-containing paper or ACP, is a type of insulation material that was widely used in buildings until the 1980s. It is typically found in pipe insulation, duct insulation, and electrical equipment insulation. Asbestos paper is made up of a mixture of asbestos fibers and a bonding agent, and it is commonly found in sheets or rolls.

Asbestos paper is considered to be a non-friable form of asbestos, which means that its fibers are not easily released into the air. However, when asbestos paper is damaged, cut, or broken apart, it can release dangerous asbestos fibers into the air, which can cause serious health problems if inhaled.

Is the Removal of Asbestos Paper Notifiable in Devon?

The short answer is yes, the removal of asbestos paper is notifiable in Devon. In fact, any work that involves asbestos is subject to notification to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in accordance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. This includes the removal of any asbestos-containing material, including asbestos paper.

The notification process involves informing the HSE of the details of the intended work, such as the location, type of asbestos, extent of work, and the asbestos removal contractor who will be carrying out the work. The notification must be made 14 days before the work is due to begin.

Work with Asbestos

Asbestos is a hazardous material that can cause serious health problems, such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Therefore, any work that involves asbestos must be carried out in a safe and controlled manner to minimize the risk of exposure to asbestos fibers.

In general, there are two types of asbestos work: licensed work and non-licensed work.

Licensed Work

Licensed asbestos work involves the removal or encapsulation of high-risk asbestos-containing materials, such as asbestos insulation, asbestos coatings, and asbestos lagging. Licensed work must be carried out by a contractor who holds a license issued by the HSE. The contractor must also follow strict procedures and controls to prevent the release of asbestos fibers into the air.

Non-Licensed Work

Non-licensed asbestos work involves the removal or encapsulation of lower-risk asbestos-containing materials, such as asbestos cement products, textured coatings, and asbestos paper. Non-licensed work can be carried out by a competent person who has been trained to work with asbestos, but who does not need a license from the HSE. However, the person carrying out the work must still follow strict procedures and controls to prevent the release of asbestos fibers into the air.

Every Non-Licensed Work Needs to Follow NNLW Procedures

Even for non-licensed asbestos work, there are specific procedures and controls that must be followed to ensure the safety of those involved. These procedures are known as NNLW (Notifiable Non-Licensable Work) procedures and include the following:

• Risk assessment: A risk assessment must be carried out before any work begins to determine the potential risks associated with the work, such as the type of asbestos involved, the extent of the work, and the location.

• Notification: As mentioned earlier, the work must be notified to the HSE at least 14 days before it begins.

• Control measures: Suitable control measures must be put in place to prevent the release of asbestos fibers into the air. This may include using enclosure systems, negative pressure units, and personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Decontamination: Workers and equipment must be decontaminated after work has been completed to ensure that no asbestos fibers are carried out of the work area.

• Waste disposal: All asbestos waste must be disposed of safely and legally at a licensed disposal site.

Employers Must Provide Information, Instruction, and Training

Employers who are involved in asbestos-related work have a duty to protect their employees and anyone else who may be affected by the work. This includes providing information, instruction, and training on the risks associated with asbestos and the procedures that must be followed to work safely with asbestos.

Employers must also keep a record of any training and instruction that has been provided to their employees, and ensure that workers are properly supervised and monitored during asbestos-related work.

Conclusion

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we understand the importance of working safely with asbestos, and ensuring that all work is carried out in accordance with the relevant regulations. Whether you need licensed asbestos removal or non-licensed asbestos work, our team of trained and experienced professionals will provide a safe and effective service that meets all legal requirements.

If you have any questions or concerns about asbestos removal or asbestos-related work in Devon, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us. You can reach us by phone on 01962 458066, or by email at [email protected]. You can also visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-devon.co.uk for more information about our services.