Is Removal of Asbestos Roof Compulsory in Devon?

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a company providing asbestos removal services in Devon and South West England. Asbestos is a dangerous material that used to be commonly used in building construction. Asbestos Roofing Sheets, Asbestos Insulation, and Asbestos Cement were popular options in the past because of their durability, fireproofing properties, and ability to insulate against sound and heat. However, it was later discovered that asbestos can cause severe health problems like lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. According to the European Union (EU), asbestos is now banned in new construction and renovation projects.

So, the question arises, is removal of asbestos roof compulsory in Devon? In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and other aspects related to asbestos.

Asbestos: What Is It And Where Is It Found?

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally in the environment. It comprises of six different types of minerals, including chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, tremolite, actinolite, and anthophyllite. Out of these, chrysotile is the most commonly used and accounts for over 90% of the asbestos used in building materials.

Asbestos used to be widely used in building materials until the 1980s, when it was discovered to cause health problems. It can be found in various parts of a building, including:

• Roofing and siding materials (Asbestos Cement)
• Insulation for pipes and boilers
• Drywall and joint compounds
• Vinyl tiles and adhesives
• Textured paint and coatings.

Asbestos In Shed And Garage: Does It Need To Be Removed?

If you own a shed or garage built before the 1980s, there is a high probability that it contains asbestos. Asbestos was a popular construction material for sheds and garages because of its fire-resistant properties. However, it can be dangerous to your health if it is released into the air.

According to a report by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in the UK, asbestos cement sheets often used as shed roofs do not need to be removed. If the asbestos is in good condition and is not damaged, then it does not pose a significant risk to health. But if you are worried about asbestos in your shed or garage, you should have it inspected by a professional.

Asbestos In New Building: Is It Allowed?

Asbestos is not allowed in new construction and renovation projects in the EU. The UK adopted this ban on asbestos in 1999. Therefore, any new building constructed after this date in Devon would not contain asbestos in any capacity.

Asbestos Roof Removal: When Is It Must?

Asbestos roof removal is mandatory if the roof is in poor condition or is damaged. Cracked and broken asbestos sheets can release fibres that can cause health problems. According to the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, if you own a building that contains asbestos, you have a duty to manage it. This means you must:

• Determine if asbestos is present in your building
• Conduct periodic asbestos surveys and risk assessments
• Create an asbestos management plan
• Record the location and condition of the asbestos
• Train employees on how to handle asbestos safely
• Keep the asbestos in good condition and prevent any disturbance
• Remove asbestos if it poses a health risk.

Therefore, if your building contains asbestos in the roofing or any other part, you should have it checked by a professional asbestos removal company in Devon like us. We can provide you with an asbestos survey and removal plan to make sure the asbestos is safely and legally removed from your property.

Who Can Remove Asbestos And When Does It Need To Be Done By A Professional?

Not anyone can remove asbestos from a building. Asbestos removal is a hazardous and regulated process that requires a professional to perform the job safely. The HSE sets strict guidelines and standards on asbestos removal and management to protect individuals from the risk of exposure.

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 requires anyone involved in licensed asbestos removal work to have a license from the HSE. Non-licensed work, such as minor asbestos removal, can be performed by anyone who is competent and has received appropriate asbestos training. However, the work must be done safely and in compliance with the HSE guidelines.

Examples of non-licensed work include:

• Repairing or removing asbestos-containing floor or ceiling tiles
• Removing asbestos-containing waste material
• Removing or repairing asbestos cement products.

However, if you are not sure if the work is licensed or non-licensed, it is best to consult with a professional asbestos removal company like Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon.

Asbestos Essentials: What Can You Do To Protect Yourself?

Asbestos Essentials is a guide by the HSE that provides practical advice on how to safely work with asbestos. If you are working in the building industry, or you are a property owner, it is essential to follow the guidelines in the Asbestos Essentials to protect yourself and others from the harmful effects of asbestos.

Some essential examples for working with asbestos include:

• Wear personal protective equipment, such as gloves, masks, and coveralls
• Wet down asbestos material before handling to reduce the release of fibres
• Use appropriate tools and equipment to avoid damage to asbestos-containing materials
• Label and dispose of any asbestos-containing materials in sealed containers and follow appropriate regulations for disposal
• Get your building inspected for asbestos and seek professional help if needed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, asbestos can be dangerous, and its presence in buildings should be taken seriously. If you own a building in Devon that was constructed before the 1980s, it is highly likely that it contains asbestos. Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon can provide you with a comprehensive asbestos survey and removal plan. We offer affordable and safe asbestos removal services throughout Devon and South West England.

If you have any questions or concerns about asbestos in your property, feel free to call us at 01962 458066 or send us an email at [email protected]. Visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-devon.co.uk for more information.