What Type Of Asbestos Can You Remove In Devon

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has been widely used in construction, manufacturing, and many other industries due to its heat and fire-resistant properties. However, it was later discovered that asbestos exposure can lead to various health risks, including cancer. This situation led to the introduction of regulations concerning asbestos removal.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a licensed asbestos removal company in Devon, South West England. Asbestos, being a dangerous material, requires professional handling during its removal. Our company is a trusted provider of asbestos removal services in the area. We offer affordable and reliable services to help you get rid of asbestos safely.

Asbestos Removal: Licensed and Non-Licensed

The process of asbestos removal is a complex one. It involves the identification and assessment of materials that contain asbestos. This is because, during the removal process, asbestos fibers can become airborne and pose a risk to those in the surrounding area. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the material is removed safely.

In the UK, there are two categories of asbestos removal: licensed and non-licensed. The type of asbestos and its location determines the type of removal technique to be used.

Licensed Asbestos Removal

Licensed asbestos removal is a process of removing asbestos that requires a license from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). This is because the material being removed presents a higher risk to human health. Licensed asbestos removal companies have the necessary training and equipment to ensure the safe removal and disposal of such materials.

Licensed asbestos removal procedures include encapsulation, which involves sealing the asbestos-containing material to prevent fiber release, and removal and disposal. Encapsulation is a form of asbestos management and can be a cost-effective solution especially when the material is in good condition and does not need to be removed.

Non-Licensed Asbestos Removal

Non-licensed asbestos removal involves the removal of asbestos that does not require a license from the HSE. This is because the asbestos-containing material presents a lower level of risk to human health. However, it still requires specialist knowledge and training to be able to safely remove and dispose of the material.

Examples of non-licensed asbestos removal include the removal of asbestos-cement products such as pipes, sheeting, or tiles. It is worth noting that the material must be less than 1% asbestos to qualify for non-licensed removal.

Types of Asbestos

Asbestos is classified into two mineral fiber groups: serpentines and amphiboles. The most common types of asbestos used in buildings are chrysotile (serpentine) and crocidolite (amphibole).

Chrysotile

Chrysotile is a white fibrous mineral and the most common form of asbestos. It was used widely in the construction industry for insulation and fireproofing. It is less harmful than other types of asbestos, but prolonged exposure can still lead to health risks.

Crocidolite

Crocidolite, also known as blue asbestos, is a mineral fibrous that has thin fibers. Blue asbestos was a popular insulating material in the early 20th century, particularly for shipbuilding and boiler insulation. It is classified as the most dangerous type of asbestos because it is very brittle and releases many fibers when disturbed, this can increase exposure levels dramatically.

Amosite

Amosite, or brown asbestos, has longer fibers as compared to chrysotile. Its color ranges from gray to brown. It is commonly found in cement-based products, ceiling tiles, and insulation boards.

Tremolite

Tremolite is not commonly used commercially, though it is sometimes found in other asbestos-containing materials. It is a coarse grey or white mineral fiber.

Anthophyllite

Like tremolite, anthophyllite is not commonly used commercially. It is also found in other asbestos-containing materials.

Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos exposure can occur by inhaling asbestos fibers or coming into contact with asbestos dust. The process of removing asbestos can cause fibers to become airborne. This creates a risk of inhalation, especially if appropriate safety measures are not followed.

Exposure to asbestos can lead to various health risks, such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. These health risks can result in significant financial and emotional burdens. It is important, therefore, to ensure that asbestos removal is carried out safely by licensed and trained professionals.

Asbestos in Buildings

Asbestos was widely used in building materials in the UK from the 1950s until the mid-1980s. It was used in a wide range of products such as insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, and asbestos-cement products. Asbestos-containing materials can still be found in many buildings throughout the UK.

If you have an older building or suspect that there may be asbestos in your property, it is essential to have it checked by a professional. Our experienced team at Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon can help you with asbestos surveying and testing. This can help you identify whether there is any asbestos-containing material and the degree of risk posed by those materials.

Contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a leading provider of asbestos removal services in Devon, South West England. We have the expertise and equipment required to safely remove asbestos-containing materials from your property. Our services are professional, affordable, and reliable.

Get in touch with Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon today to discuss your asbestos removal needs. You can reach us by phone at 01962 458066 or through email at [email protected]. You can also visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-devon.co.uk for more information about our services.