Asbestos removal

How to dispose of and remove asbestos

What is asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibre-like mineral substance with heat-resistant properties. It was once used in buildings for insulation, flooring and roofing, but its use has been fully banned in the UK since 1999. People may occasionally come into contact with existing asbestos-containing materials in buildings and products. If they are intact, they pose very little risk. It is only when the materials are damaged or disturbed, so that fibres are released, that asbestos can become a danger.

Asbestos removal in your home

If you think your home may contain asbestos, visit the Health and Safety Executive website.

If you plan to dispose of asbestos at the tip, make sure you first check the list of the local household recycling centres with asbestos containers and their rules.

Asbestos removal in the workplace

Before starting any work on removing asbestos or cement based asbestos products, visit the Health and Safety Executive website.

You must use a licensed contractor for this work. Visit the Asbestos Removal Contractors Association to find one.