Managing Asbestos Risks – How We Safely Identify and Handle Asbestos
Despite being banned in the UK, asbestos risks remain a serious concern due to its continued presence in many buildings. A full ban on asbestos came into effect in the UK in 1999, but the material is still found in older properties.
Proper identification and safe handling of asbestos is crucial to prevent exposure, while ensuring adherence to the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
At Rainbow Restoration, we take your safety seriously. That’s why our technicians follow a robust process in line with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 to identify, assess and safely manage any potential asbestos risks.
April 1st marks the start of Global Asbestos Awareness Week, which serves as an important reminder of the risks associated with asbestos and an opportunity to discuss the measures we put in place to protect both our technicians and property owners.
Here are some key facts about asbestos and the dangers of exposure:
- Before its ban, asbestos was widely used in manufacturing and construction, particularly for ceilings, roofing, building insulation and flooring.
- Asbestos is most commonly found in buildings constructed before the year 2000.
- When disturbed, asbestos can release tiny fibres into the air, which, when inhaled, can damage lung tissue, especially with prolonged exposure.
- According to the Health and Safety Executive, asbestos-related illnesses cause approximately 5,000 deaths in the UK each year.
- Exposure to asbestos is the leading cause of mesothelioma, a cancer responsible for 2,257 deaths in the UK in 2022.
How We Identify and Manage Asbestos Risks
Identification and Risk Assessment Before Work Begins
Before working in areas where asbestos risks may be present, we begin by carrying out a suitable and sufficient risk assessment to identify potential asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). This process is crucial to assess whether asbestos is present or suspected, as well as to evaluate any foreseeable risks and how work conditions may change.
If we are unable to identify ACMs initially, we take a precautionary approach, working on the assumption that asbestos may be present until confirmed otherwise. During this time, we implement strict control measures to ensure safety.
If asbestos is suspected, we sample for confirmation and reassess the situation based on the results, adjusting control measures accordingly.
Trained Technicians at Every Step
Our technicians are fully trained for the specific tasks they carry out, including asbestos awareness, sampling and, where necessary, Non-Licensed Work or Notifiable Non-Licensed Work (NNLW). You can rest assured that only qualified professionals will be involved in taking samples, handling or removing asbestos at your property.
Safe Asbestos Sampling
Our trained technicians safely collect and handle asbestos samples, following strict control measures to ensure safety throughout the process. These samples are then sent to UKAS-accredited laboratories for testing to confirm the presence and type of asbestos.
To minimise the risk of exposure, we implement robust control measures at every stage of the sampling process. This includes using safe working methods, appropriate waste disposal procedures and decontamination procedures.
We conduct safe asbestos sampling by:
- Using Wet Methods – Moistening materials with the appropriate ratio of water/surfactant mix to minimise fibre release.
- Taking Proper Samples – Collecting the right amount based on material type.
- Sealing & Labelling – Placing samples in sealed, labelled bags with proper documentation.
- Cleaning Thoroughly – Decontaminating tools after each sample to prevent cross-contamination.
The Right PPE and RPE for the Job
All technicians are issued with personal protective equipment (PPE) and respiratory protective equipment (RPE) to carry out their work safely, in accordance with their training and relevant regulations. We conduct face fit testing before use and on a regular basis to ensure each mask forms an effective seal, particularly when there are changes in the technician’s health or facial features.
Health Surveillance for Advanced Work
For higher-risk asbestos tasks, such as Notifiable Non-Licensed Work (NNLW), our technicians undergo HSE-approved medical assessments every three years. This is part of our wider commitment to both technician welfare and client safety.
Notifiable Non-Licensed Work (NNLW) and Reporting to HSE
If work involves Notifiable Non-Licensed asbestos activity, we will ensure its properly notified to the health and safety executive HSE via our approved Asbestos Management Providers, bSure who handle the required notification to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in advance to the work being carried out.
Asbestos-Related Records
We maintain comprehensive records for all asbestos-related work, including:
- Samples taken
- Sample result certificates
- Risk assessments
- NNLW works documentation
- Waste disposal certificates
These records are kept in accordance with legal and regulatory requirements, ensuring both compliance and peace of mind for property owners.
Your Peace of Mind is Our Priority
We understand that discovering asbestos or suspected ACMs in your property can be daunting. Our experts are here to guide you through the process, answer your questions and keep you fully informed every step of the way to ease your concerns.
For further information on asbestos risks and health hazards, we’d recommend reading our blog ‘How to stop worrying about asbestos’.
Our Asbestos Testing and Removal service is provided by our expert technicians throughout the UK, with a branch an average of 23 miles from any postcode. If you’d like to learn more about our services or schedule a survey, our national helpline is available 24/7, 365 days a year, so please do not hesitate to contact us on 01623 422488.