Asbestos - Print version

Asbestos is a natural material that was widely used in the past for building work because of the protection it gave against heat and fire.

Why is asbestos hazardous?

When it is left in place it poses little risk, but if it is disturbed and fibres are inhaled, it can cause a variety of diseases such as lung cancer.

The risk of getting these diseases increases depending on how many times and for how long you have been exposed to asbestos. There is often a long period between exposure and illness (15 - 40 years).

Since the dangers of asbestos have been identified, imports have been banned and its use has been reduced, but up until about 1980 asbestos containing materials (ACMs) were still in use. Because of its use in building, it can be disturbed during maintenance, refurbishment and demolition or if there is vandalism.

Which materials are likely to contain asbestos?

Typical asbestos containing materials include:

• Cement roof sheets
• Asbestos insulation board
• Spray lagging
• Cement pipe work
• Vinyl floor tiles
• Decorative textured wall and ceiling finishes

Asbestos waste

All asbestos waste is classified as hazardous and should be dealt with by a licensed carrier [https://www.gov.uk/dispose-hazardous-waste/carriers], fly tipping is a criminal offence.

Asbestos in business premises

Businesses have a legal duty to manage the asbestos in their property, it is very important that you know what materials are made of and where they are, so that anyone carrying out work, such as electricians, gas fitters or plumbers can be told before any work starts. It is the duty holder's responsibility to protect anyone on their premises from the risks of asbestos containing materials (ACMs).

Further information is available from:

• Information about asbestos from the Health and Safety Executive [http://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/]
• About pleural mesothelioma [https://mesotheliomacenter.org/mesothelioma/pleural-mesothelioma/]

Asbestos in the home

Asbestos in homes

• Advice on dealing with asbestos in the home [http://www.coventry.gov.uk/downloads/file/24936/asbestos_in_the_home].
• Health and Safety Executive's website - asbestos frequently asked questions [http://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/faq.htm].
• Some small amounts of certain types of asbestos can be taken to the Household Recycling and Disposal Centre (the Tip) [http://www.coventry.gov.uk/info/69/rubbish_and_recycling/2329/asbestos_disposal], however you must make an appointment and ensure the items are wrapped correctly.