Last Updated on February 22, 2023 by max

The answer to this question is that asbestos removal is not a DIY job. You should not underestimate the dangers of asbestos to health. It is highly hazardous material. The HSE strongly recommends that a householder or untrained personnel does not attempt to remove asbestos from a property, that only a trained and licensed professional should do so.

What You Can Do Safely

If you think you have asbestos in your work building or home, it is often best left alone. It is the removal of damaged asbestos that releases dangerous airborne fibres that cause health problems. What you can do is keep a regular check on the asbestos to mark any sign of deterioration. But that is as far as you should go.

Damaged Asbestos-Containing Materials, ACMs, can sometimes be repaired by sealing or enclosing them. Once again, this should be left to those trained in what they are doing. If any asbestos material is too damaged or likely to continue to deteriorate, then it needs to be safely removed and disposed of correctly. You can contact your local Environmental Officer for advice on the next steps to having the asbestos removed. They will always recommend using a professional. Professional asbestos removal firms must undertake training and be licensed to remove asbestos.

The HSE further suggests that “only a licensed contractor should dispose of higher-risk asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).”

Materials that include:

• Asbestos insulation
• Asbestos lagging
• Sprayed asbestos coatings
• Work with asbestos insulating board (AIB)

These items are more likely to cause health problems if not removed properly. Which is why you should use professionals. These are the companies that,

• Have the correct gear, especially high-end Respiratory Protective Equipment, RPE.
• Have undergone sufficient and specific training.
• Have access to regular medical assessments.

It is also prudent to remember that legally you have to dispose of asbestos as hazardous waste, and you should not include it in household waste. You will have to contact your local authority for information on where your asbestos can safely and legally be disposed of. This waste includes,

• Contaminated building materials
• Dust and rubble
• Used tools that can not be decontaminated
• PIP
• Any cleaning materials.

All asbestos waste needs to be put in secure packaging to prevent any disturbed fibres from escaping, double wrapped and safely labelled. Do not break up asbestos coating attached to boards. Double-wrap them and mark them with a contaminated label. 

Is this a job you want to undertake? The safest and most practical route is for you to use a licensed professional.

Why professionals are the best way forward for asbestos removal – consider these four points.

1. Removing asbestos yourself could expose you and your family to released fibres. If incorrectly done, these particles could linger in a home or business and potentially cause long-term health problems.
2. A professional company will have all the correct equipment, which is a huge expense for a one-off asbestos removal and disposal.
3. Using a professional company avoids any legal consequences. This is important to know as, according to the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2022, removing asbestos yourself could have significant legal repercussions.
4. DIY removal of asbestos could put yourself, your family and your neighbours at risk of long-term health problems.

Published Feb 22, 2023