Asbestos FAQs

Asbestos fibres are very light and needle-shaped. Because of their minimal weight and shape, they are easily airborne and can float in the air for long periods of time. It can take 48–72 hours for asbestos fibres to fall in a still room and in a room with air currents, asbestos may stay in the air even longer.

Asbestos has the potential to be extremely dangerous. Left undisturbed and with the correct risk management procedures in place, it can safely reside in a building, but if the fibres become airborne, there’s no exposure which is considered “safe”. However, most people come into contact with asbestos fibres at some point in their life, either in the outside ambient air or indoor background air. Small amounts of exposure such as these rarely lead to asbestos-related diseases or health issues. Those who have been exposed to higher levels of asbestos through work, hobbies or others who have breathed in the fibres are more likely to face health issues as a result in the future.

Asbestos is a term used to describe a number of naturally occurring fibrous silicates which derive from metamorphic rocks. It is found in many construction products which predate its UK-wide ban in 1999.

Asbestos is dangerous because when materials containing the substance are disturbed, small asbestos fibres are released into the air. If inhaled, they have the potential to cause serious disease. The health issues caused by asbestos are not instantly visible, often taking a long time to develop.

There are six types of asbestos, although only three were commonly used in the UK. These are: • Crocidolite (Blue Asbestos) • Chrysotile (White Asbestos) • Amosite (Brown Asbestos) If you suspect that there could be asbestos in your home, workplace or other, it’s worth having asbestos sampling carried out by a trusted professional.

In a public place or workplace, there are very strict rules and procedures which must be followed when removing asbestos, set out in the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. However, if you find asbestos in your home, you can make the decision to remove it yourself. However, due to the health risks posed by asbestos, it is advised that you enlist the help of a professional asbestos removal company in all cases. This is because asbestos poses the highest risk when disturbed, as dangerous fibres can be released into the atmosphere.

When carried out by a professional asbestos service provider, asbestos removal is safe. Trained professionals follow careful asbestos handling protocol when removing the substance, and this is something which should only be carried out by someone who is highly experienced in asbestos management.

Asbestos fibres are not visible to the naked eye. Asbestos fibres are approximately 3–20 µm wide, and therefore are only visible under a microscope.

Yes, asbestos minerals are made up of fine, durable fibers and are resistant to heat and fire, making them a popular choice for construction materials until its UK-wide ban in 1999.