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North Ayrshire Council

North Ayrshire Council, Cunninghame House, Irvine, Scotland, KA12 8EE
Fax: +44 (0)1294 324144  Overseas: +44 1294 323963

Pollution Control - Asbestos

 

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006

These Regulations prohibit the importation, supply and use of all forms of raw asbestos and the use of second-hand asbestos products such as asbestos cement sheets, boarding and tiles in any form. However, where existing asbestos containing materials are located within buildings and are in good condition they may be left in place but will require to be maintained and managed to ensure that they are not disturbed in any way. 

 

Duty to Manage Asbestos

The Regulations also include a "duty to manage asbestos" in certain premises. The duty to manage will apply where asbestos containing materials that are in a good condition are left located in the premises. Guidance on this can be obtained at:

 

http://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/campaign/duty.htm|

 

Work Liable to Disturb Asbestos

Where work is liable to disturb asbestos containing materials, the Regulations require employers and self-employed persons to prevent exposure to and the spread of asbestos fibres. The Regulations require that specific work procedures and controls are employed to prevent exposure. 

 

Information on the Regulations and the Approved Code of Practice: "Work with Materials Containing Asbestos" can be obtained from:

 www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/regulations.htm|

 

Contact Details

North Ayrshire Council

Corporate Services

Environmental Health

First Floor

Cunninghame House

Irvine, KA12 8EE

Tel : 01294 324300

Fax : 01294 324360

Email : EnvironmentalHealth@north-ayrshire.gov.uk|

Why is asbestos still a problem?
Asbestos was used extensively as a building material in Great Britain from 1950 to the mid 1980s, and continued to be used until 1999. Although some asbestos has been removed, it is likely that many thousands of tonnes are still present within buildings. It is estimated that over half a million non-domestic premises currently have some form of asbestos in them.

Why is asbestos harmful?
Asbestos fibres are very narrow and are therefore easily breathed in. They do not dissolve and will remain in the lung for a very long time, perhaps indefinitely. They become easily lodged in the lungs, and our immune systems are unable to break them down. Inhaling asbestos fibres can lead to asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma.

When is asbestos dangerous?
Asbestos is not dangerous unless fibres are released into the air. Thus any asbestos present in buildings will pose no harm if it is in good condition, and can be left in place if it is unlikely to be disturbed. Any activity that causes fibres to be released will cause problems, for example cutting, using machinery, removal of asbestos, drilling or sawing, repair or replacement of ceiling tiles or unintentional damage.

What should I do if I suspect asbestos in my home?
Don't panic. Asbestos is only dangerous when disturbed. If it is safely managed and contained it doesn't present a health hazard. Homeowners should contact a private asbestos contractor who will sample and analyse the material for the presence of asbestos. After analysis they should provide advice on the best course of action. Council tenants should contact your nearest housing office or your housing officer.

What is asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally-occurring fibrous mineral. It is fire-resistant, stronger than steel, resilient and insoluble. These properties make it very useful to us, particularly as fire protection and insulation in buildings.

What do I do if I find asbestos?
Ideally we would want to know of the exact location of all asbestos material, so please tell us. If necessary, you may need to have it disposed of.

I have some roofing sheets from an old garage/shed which I think it may contain asbestos. How do I know if it is asbestos?
An Officer from Environmental Health will be able to give further advice on the correct disposal of such sheets.

Can I cut materials suspected to contain asbestos into smaller pieces?
No. Under no circumstances should you cut, saw or break up what you think may be asbestos sheeting. This can release asbestos fibres which are known to cause long term health problems if inhaled.