Asbestos

Asbestos Containing Materials

Any activities involving asbestos must be done in a safe, controlled and legal way, as exposure to asbestos containing materials (ACM's) can cause life limiting illness. More information about asbestos, the legal requirements and work involving asbestos can be found on the HSE website. 

Most work with asbestos (including but not limited to maintenance, removal, construction and demolition) must only be done by a competent asbestos contractor who will be able to give advice about whether that work is licensable.

Asbestos Cement

Asbestos cement is primarily a cement based product where approximately 10-15% asbestos fibres added. This product was used for corrugated sheets found in garages and sheds, slates, moulded fittings, soffits, rainwater gutters and downpipes, drainages pipes, sills, fascias etc.

Asbestos cement and its removal/disposal does not have to be carried out by an asbestos contractor so a householder has the option to carry out this work, as long as it is done safely. The following general advice should be followed if a householder decides to carry out the work:

  • If it is in good condition the best option may be to leave it alone. Painting the surface with an oil based paint or PVA emulsion will help to seal and protect the asbestos surface from weathering. If it is in poor condition it may be advisable to contact a licensed asbestos contractor. 
  • Wear disposable protective clothing - disposable overall with hood, disposable P3 face mask, shoe covers/washable boots, disposable gloves. 
  • Damp down the asbestos sheets. Use low pressure water (never jet wash or use high pressure) or wait until it has rained. Don't use excessive amounts of water.  
  • If possible remove the asbestos sheets intact. Never use any power tools or saws, as this will release fibres. Avoid dropping or breaking.
  • Place the asbestos in a strong polythene bag, tie it off and then place in a second polythene bag. This is known as double bagging. Any protective clothing worn must be treated as waste and placed with the asbestos for disposal. 

If you are not sure about the type of asbestos, are not sure you can undertake the work safely and/or the asbestos is in poor condition, then seek help from a competent asbestos contractor and do not attempt the work yourself.

Where to dispose of asbestos

Some Lancashire County Council recycling centres will take asbestos containing waste and more information can be found at this link. 

Concerns about asbestos

The HSE has produced a helpful set of frequently asked questions, which may be of assistance for workers and householders with concerns about asbestos.

If you are a worker and are concerned about exposure to asbestos you can report this to either Environmental Health at the Council or the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) dependent on your work area. The Environmental Health Team can be contacted by emailing envhealth.admin@westlancs.gov.uk

Concerns about work activities HSE regulate, including construction and demolition activities can be reported to the HSE at this link.

Please see this page in relation to fly tipping.