Whether you require a commercial asbestos demolition or asbestos removal at a domestic property, you’ll need the right experts on board. There are different types of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) present in homes built before 1999, including some higher-risk forms. Licensed asbestos removals will need careful management from a specialist, so it’s important to understand what happens next if this is suspected at your property.
Here’s everything you need to know about licensed asbestos.
Licensed asbestos removals explained
Asbestos was once a popular choice when building properties until the health risks it poses were uncovered. During its removal, professional asbestos companies use protective equipment and techniques to ensure the safety of their team and anyone else who uses the property.
When the job is assessed, tasks posing the most significant risk or public health concerns will require the services of a licensed asbestos contractor. Lower-risk asbestos jobs must still be carried out by a trained professional with protective equipment, but a licence isn’t required.
When do you need a licensed asbestos contractor?
While some common types of asbestos are easy to manage, a licensed asbestos contractor will need to be contacted for higher-risk tasks. This includes jobs where worker exposure is of a long duration and high intensity or control limits exceed HSE-set levels. This emphasises the need for asbestos surveys before work takes place, investigating the extent of the asbestos, safety of the job and removal requirements.
Examples of work that requires a licensed asbestos contractor include the removal of limpet asbestos (sprayed asbestos coatings), loose fill insulation, AIB (Asbestos Insulating Board), asbestos millboard or pipe lagging. They may also be hired for projects that involve significant quantities of loose or fine materials that contain ACM dust.
Why request asbestos sampling and testing?
When you contact an asbestos collection company, always check if they offer sampling and testing services. During an asbestos audit, they’ll visit your property and assess your needs, providing asbestos sampling to analyse materials before performing tests to establish the type and condition.
If the results show the asbestos levels exceed safe limits or a licensed asbestos contractor is required, they can help you access this service, often partnering with leading professionals they know will do a thorough job. Therefore, when you hire an asbestos removal company, always check whether they have a process in place if dangerous levels of asbestos are found at your property.
Need an asbestos survey? Contact our trained team
If you need an asbestos survey or removal in London, Surrey or any of the Home Counties, please contact our team. We provide our expert solutions across the area, coming out to locations such as Andover, Balham and Beckenham. If you need licensed asbestos services, we can provide this through one of our close partners, managing your needs from start to finish.
For more advice or a free asbestos removal quote, get in touch. You can reach us on 0800 024 6203, 07500 866733 or email info@goodbyeasbestos.co.uk.
