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Residential & Commercial
Stress-Free Asbestos Abatement
When faced with asbestos removal, as in many cities across the country, property owners can often feel overwhelmed. Asbestos regulations are difficult to understand, while finding a quality abatement specialist requires plenty of research.
However, dealing with asbestos does not have to be a major headache. Here at Spa Asbestos, we specialise in all aspects of asbestos removal. We take a personable approach to environmental services, decoding technical jargon to present the realities of asbestos in homes, workplaces, public buildings and beyond.
Licensed vs Non-Licensed Removal
There are two classic strands of asbestos removal: licensed asbestos removal and non-licensed asbestos removal. Licensed asbestos removal encompasses higher-risk materials in larger quantities, while non-licensed asbestos removal must adhere to a very specific set of circumstances.
Removing asbestos, regardless of its extent and condition, can be incredibly dangerous. Similarly, disposing of asbestos requires a nuanced understanding of the rulebook. We are more than happy to discuss your challenges, dispensing free advice on the best course of action for your asbestos removal needs.
Modern Philosophy
Here at Spa Asbestos, we are distinguished by a modern philosophy of environmental health and safety. We are at the cutting edge of that innovation, ready to help when you need us most.
Understanding the Risks
Essential facts and history regarding the use and dangers of asbestos materials in the UK.
What is asbestos?
Asbestos is the generic term for a group of six naturally occurring fibrous minerals. It was overwhelmingly used as a building material, either on its own or occasionally mixed with other products. Mined in large quantities, asbestos became known as a 'wonder material' during its pomp due to a raft of versatile properties, such as its fire resistance and ability to insulate buildings.
Why was it used so much?
Asbestos was very cheap to excavate, transport and use. Coupled with its practical utility, it became a go-to resource. During World War II, many UK cities were destroyed. In the 1950s and 1960s, local councils faced the daunting task of rebuilding hundreds of schools, hospitals, and houses. Affordable and versatile, asbestos allowed authorities to reconstruct buildings rapidly.
Why is it dangerous?
When disturbed or damaged, asbestos released dangerous fibres. Inhaling asbestos fibres can cause two types of cancer: mesothelioma and asbestos-related lung cancer. Around 3,500 people die every year from asbestos-related diseases. The first documented death happened in 1906, and after various stages of reform, asbestos was finally banned in 1999.
The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012
While asbestos-containing materials are often easily visible, when they are disturbed or damaged, they break apart and release dangerous fibres that are microscopic and completely invisible to the naked eye. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 place a legal duty on building owners and managers to identify, manage and – where needed – safely remove these materials from their premises.
Specifically, Regulation 4 says that the building dutyholder must, among other responsibilities:
Take reasonable steps to find out if there are materials containing asbestos in non-domestic premises, and if so, its amount, where it is and what condition it is in.
Make, and keep up-to-date, a record of the location and condition of the asbestos-containing materials.
Provide information on the location and condition of the materials to anyone who is liable to work on or disturb them.