Asbestos Compliance

Under the Control of Asbestos Regulation (CAR) 2012, employers and duty holders have a legal obligation to protect their employees and others from the risks associated with asbestos exposure. They must conduct thorough assessments to identify the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in their premises and evaluate the potential risks of exposure. Based on these assessments, employers must develop and implement appropriate management plans to minimise the risk of asbestos exposure. This includes providing accurate information, training, and suitable protective equipment to anyone who may come into contact with ACMs during their work.

Employers must also ensure that any work involving asbestos is carried out by competent persons and in accordance with strict safety protocols. Regular monitoring, maintenance, and record-keeping are essential to maintain a safe working environment and comply with legal requirements.

The United Kingdom took a significant step towards protecting public health by banning the importation of blue (crocidolite) and brown (amosite) asbestos in 1985. This prohibition came in response to the growing body of scientific evidence that linked exposure to these types of asbestos with severe health consequences, particularly mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer of the lung lining. The ban on blue and brown asbestos importation marked a crucial milestone in the UK’s efforts to reduce asbestos-related diseases and safeguard the well-being of its citizens. It also set a precedent for further regulations and restrictions on asbestos use in the following years.

Asbestos poses a significant threat to human health when its fibres become airborne and are inhaled. The small, needle-like fibres can penetrate deep into the lungs, where they become trapped. Unlike other particles, asbestos fibres cannot be easily expelled by the body’s natural defences, such as coughing or mucus clearance. The body’s immune system attempts to break down these foreign fibres by releasing acids, but asbestos is highly resistant to acid. As a result, the acids end up damaging the surrounding lung tissue, leading to inflammation, scarring, and the development of serious asbestos-related diseases, such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

Asbestos earned the nickname “miracle mineral” due to its remarkable versatility and desirable properties. It can be easily woven, spun, or teased, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Asbestos exhibits excellent thermal stability, making it resistant to fire and heat. It also possesses electrical resistance, making it an ideal insulator for electrical components. Additionally, asbestos has anti-condensation properties, acoustic absorbency, and strong binding properties when mixed with cements, plastics, and bitumen. Its resistance to acids further contributed to its popularity in various industries, such as construction, shipbuilding, and automotive manufacturing.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous silicate mineral found in the veins of igneous or metamorphic rocks. It is known for its unique physical properties, which made it a popular material in various industries. The three most common types of asbestos are Chrysotile (white asbestos), Amosite (brown asbestos), and Crocidolite (blue asbestos). Chrysotile is the most abundant type, accounting for around 95% of the asbestos used in buildings. Despite the well-known health risks associated with asbestos, it is still mined in several countries worldwide.