Environmental Applications Limited

If you have a problem with asbestos, or just need expert reassurance, contact Environmental Applications Limited. We deal with all aspects associated with the management, identification, handling, storage or disposal of materials containing, or suspected of containing asbestos.

Asbestos is one of the most commonly used building materials of the twentieth century. Its flexible properties, cheapness and easy of processing made it ideal for a great many building applications. Its use only declined when terminal illnesses were associated with its usage. Its supply and use in the UK has now been banned.
However most premises constructed between 1950 - 1980 will contain some asbestos. In addition, premises that were refurbished, or have had extensions added to them within this period are also likely to contain some asbestos products.
Important note - premises constructed outside of this period should not be considered to be asbestos free, since asbestos was being produced for many years before 1950.
Similarly, asbestos may be found in premises constructed or refurbished since 1980, particularly in the form of asbestos cement.
Amongst those premises known to contain asbestos are:

	Factories
	Offices
	Shops
	Hospitals
	Schools
	Portable buildings and caravans
	Domestic homes
	Public buildings

Asbestos is particularly prevalent in buildings which were built using steel frames, heating installations with thermal insulation and electrical substations and distribution rooms, cupboards, and boards. In addition the use of asbestos insulation boards was at its height during this period.
Since the 1920's heating installations were commonly insulated with asbestos lagging in the form of pre-formed thermal insulation, and sometimes before then in the form of yarn and rope. Blue and brown asbestos were the main types used, although white was used in the later stages as it was generally cheaper. Blue was used extensively where acid resistance was necessary.
All types of asbestos can be dangerous if disturbed. The danger arises when asbestos fibres, as a very fine dust, become airborne and are breathed in. Exposure can cause diseases such as lung cancer.
Well-sealed, undamaged asbestos is often best left alone. Make sure that all asbestos is sealed and protected against damage. If you cannot encapsulate and protect it, and it is likely to release fibres, you will need to have it removed.

Working with asbestos containing materials.

	For the current regulations governing the use, removal and disposal of asbestos containing materials see our "Current Legislation" page
	The removal and disposal of notifiable asbestos containing materials can only be carried out by specialist companies licensed by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE).