Choose the right asbestos contractor

While its use is now banned, asbestos remains in many UK properties. From roofs to asbestos insulation, it’s important to monitor the condition of any ACMs (asbestos-containing materials) in and around your property. Whether you need a new asbestos survey or a removal, hiring the right contractor is vital.

But how do you choose the right asbestos contractor? Follow these top tips.

Why is hiring the right asbestos contractor important?

Asbestos is one of the most hazardous materials because its dangers are invisible to the naked eye. It took many years for its risks to become known, as when disturbed, the fine airborne fibres it releases can penetrate the lungs, causing diseases like cancer and mesothelioma.

Hiring a trained asbestos contractor is non-negotiable if you want to ensure safe and effective management of ACMs within your home or business property. Experienced asbestos contractors have the knowledge, safety equipment and certifications to survey, handle and remove asbestos safely, minimising contamination risks for workers.

What are the different types of asbestos contractors?

There are several types of asbestos contractors. Some companies only offer a few services, while others cover a broad range of solutions. Asbestos surveyors are one of the most sought-after types of contractors. They inspect properties and test potential ACMs to identify the presence and type of asbestos.

Some contractors will also help with asbestos management, helping you to plan an effective policy to monitor ACMs within your building. Their services include regular surveys, encapsulation or removal of asbestos materials.

Asbestos removal contractors are the professionals who carry out the physical removal and safe disposal of ACMs. They follow strict protocols to stop the fibres from becoming airborne and perform air tests after the removal before a space is declared safe to use.

What training do asbestos removal companies need?

If you’re hiring, always check what asbestos contractor training has been undertaken. Asbestos removal companies must comply with strict training and certification requirements to handle ACMs safely and legally. The main framework for asbestos training in the UK is UKATA, aiming to deliver the highest quality information.

Asbestos awareness training is something any company can deliver for individuals or workers who may come into contact with ACMs during their job. However, it only covers safety information like identifying asbestos and what the health risks are. Those with this training aren’t qualified to perform a removal, for example.

High-risk asbestos work requires the support of an HSE-licensed asbestos contractor.

What questions should you ask when hiring an asbestos contractor?

Hiring a good asbestos contractor means asking the right questions to check their reliability. Ask about their qualifications, certifications and memberships to ascertain their expertise.

Always ask what safety measures they follow and how they will keep occupants safe. This will give you an insight into their practices, including containment processes, air monitoring and decontamination.

You should also enquire about their experience. Can they give examples of working on jobs like yours? Do they have testimonials from past clients you can look at? Get a feel for how well-known they are in the local area.