| Asbestos, otherwise known as the ‘Hidden Killer’ is a hazardous and highly toxic material that, if you are exposed to it, could be fatal. However, it’s still found in buildings across the country. It was popularly used in the past due to its many helpful building properties, such as its resistance to fire and affordability. If you are concerned that a building you frequently visit hasn’t been tested, book our asbestos survey London to settle those worries, we’re here to help. Made from six naturally occurring fibres, the three commonly used types in the UK were; blue (crocidolite), brown (amosite) and white (chrysotile). Asbestos can be damaging and cause long-term health issues to those working on construction sites and anyone who comes into close contact with it. As we are now fully aware of the damages that are caused by this material, health and safety measures have been implemented to control the risk of exposure and protect the removal workers.
The Difference Between Non-Licensed and Licensed Asbestos Removal
You could need a licensed or non-licensed removal service when booking an asbestos removal. Now that we know what you’re thinking, why would you choose a non-licensed service over a licensed one? Just because it is a non-licensed service doesn’t mean the job will be any less efficient. The severity of the asbestos problem will depend on which servicing you need. Non-Licensed Asbestos Removal If it is required that you have a non-licensed asbestos removal, then it is likely down to the lower associated risk level. Non-licensed removal still requires training. On the official HSC website, several listings make a case exempt from needing a licensed removal. They are briefly quoted below: ● Sporadic and low intensity ● The exposure of asbestos will not exceed the legal control limit of 0.1 asbestos fibres per cubic centimetre of air ● It’s a short not-continuous maintenance task ● It’s a removal task ● The ACMs are in good condition and are being sealed ● It’s an air monitoring and control task to check fibre concentrations in the air Please visit the HSC website to see these conditions listed in full. Licensed Asbestos Removal If the degree of asbestos is at a higher risk, you will be sent a licensed contractor to handle this issue. There is a difference in training that will be obtained to become a licensed contractor over a non-licensed contractor. A few examples of licensable work are as follows: ● Removing sprayed coatings (limpet asbestos) ● Removal or other work which may disturb pipe lagging ● Any work involving loose-fill insulation ● Work on asbestos millboard ● Cleaning up significant quantities of loose/fine debris containing ACM dust (where the work is not sporadic and of low intensity, the control limit will be exceeded or it is not short duration work) ● Work on AIB, where the risk assessment indicates that it will not be of short duration If you want to read more on licensable work, please head to the official Health and Safety Executive website. Conclusion
Whether you are uncertain or simply curious about whether you have an asbestos-related issue, there is a fast and efficient way we can resolve this. Book our asbestos survey London first, and we can assess the situation to see what precautions we may or may not need to take. Once we have confirmed this, we can assign a non-licensed or licensed contractor to attend to the matter immediately. You must remember that both contractor types have had in-depth training and are highly qualified to carry out any necessary procedures. |