Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was widely used in construction materials during the 20th century due to its heat resistance, strength, and insulating properties. However, it was later discovered that asbestos fibres can cause serious health problems when inhaled. In Newcastle and many other parts of the UK, buildings constructed before the 1990s are likely to contain asbestos materials. Therefore, professional asbestos removal in Newcastle is a crucial service for maintaining safe living and working environments.
Understanding Asbestos and Its Dangers
Asbestos is made up of microscopic fibres that can become airborne when disturbed. If these fibres are inhaled, they can cause diseases such as asbestosis (a chronic lung disease), lung cancer and mesothelioma (a rare form of cancer). These diseases often take many years to develop but are usually fatal.
The risk of exposure to asbestos is particularly high during renovation or demolition works on buildings containing asbestos materials. Therefore, it’s crucial to identify and safely remove any asbestos before starting such works.
The Need for Professional Asbestos Removal Newcastle
Asbestos removal is not a DIY job. It requires professional training and equipment to be done safely.
Professional asbestos removal companies in Newcastle have the necessary training and equipment to safely handle and dispose of this hazardous material. They know how to identify different types of asbestos materials, use appropriate protective gear, minimise the release of asbestos fibres during removal, and dispose of the waste according to legal requirements.
Choosing an Asbestos Removal Company in Newcastle
When choosing an asbestos removal company in Newcastle, there are several factors you should consider:
- Experience: Look for a company with a good track record in asbestos removal. Ask for references or check online reviews.
- Insurance: The company should have public liability insurance that covers asbestos-related claims.
- Safety procedures: Ask about the company’s safety procedures for asbestos removal and disposal.
- Quotation: Get a detailed quotation that includes all costs, such as labour, materials, and waste disposal fees.
The Asbestos Removal Process
The process of asbestos removal in Newcastle involves several steps:
- Inspection and sampling: The first step is to inspect the property and take samples of suspected asbestos materials for testing.
- Risk assessment: If asbestos is confirmed, the next step is to assess the risk it poses and decide on the best course of action – either encapsulation (sealing) or removal.
- Removal or encapsulation: If removal is chosen, all furnishings and non-asbestos materials are covered or removed from the work area to prevent contamination. The workers then carefully remove the asbestos materials using hand tools to minimise dust generation.
- Clean-up and disposal: After removal, the area is thoroughly cleaned using HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaners to remove any remaining dust. All waste is double-bagged, labelled as asbestos waste, and disposed of safely.
Conclusion
Asbestos poses a significant health risk if not handled correctly during renovation or demolition works on older buildings in Newcastle. Professional asbestos removal companies have the necessary skills, equipment, and knowledge to safely remove this hazardous material while complying with all legal requirements. Therefore, if you suspect your property may contain asbestos, it’s crucial to get professional help to ensure the safety of everyone involved.