Asbestos is a natural fibrous mineral that is mined in many countries around the world. It has historically been a common mineral for use in building due to its durability, flexibility, resistance to corrosion attack, outstanding dielectric material, and able to withstand extreme climates. The word itself is derived from the Greek language and means inextinguishable.
Asbestos has been used in the United Kingdom since before Industrialization when it was first used as construction. Since then, it has been used in a wide range of applications, including fire-resistant coating materials, tiles, pipe lagging, and boiler covering. Asbestos survey London manages several assets in multiple cities, with multiple asbestos management programs going concurrently.
When Are Asbestos Surveys Conducted?
Asbestos surveys are often requested as part of proper research during commercial property sales or lending, required to build renovation or reconstruction, or after suspicious damage to structures during floods and major natural calamities.
Asbestos occurs naturally in three different ways. The first form, known as chrysotile, or white asbestos, is perhaps the most popular. It was typically combined with concrete to create cardboard insulation materials or flat sheets for flooring.
It is very durable and can be spinning and folded like cotton, making it suitable for pipe insulation and even fireproofs fabrics. It was outlawed in the United Kingdom in 1999 because it was deemed hazardous to one’s welfare. This form is thought to account for up to 95 per cent of all asbestos present in houses.
Panels and tiles for the roof
Asbestos is often combined with concrete to create plain or polystyrene panels. They are sometimes used as roofs or walls of farmhouses and storage units.
Asbestos can be used in combination with bitumen in the felt that is commonly used to construct flat roofs, where it provides flexibility and protection. Asbestos-containing bitumen materials were also used to produce guttering.
Why is it harmful to health?
Asbestos-related diseases kill over three thousand people in London every year. The time from first being exposed to asbestos and developing a disease is typically long, ranging from fifteen to sixty years. Running or damaging asbestos can leak small asbestos fibers into the air, which can cause deadly diseases if inhaled. The tiny fibers can be drawn into the lower sections of the lungs and make their way through the padding.
The responsibility to treat includes those in charge of structures to take appropriate steps to detect asbestos and determine the material’s condition. Until there is clear proof to the contrary, assume the products contain asbestos.
The Final Verdict
Both of our Asbestos Samples are sent to a reputable Accredited Laboratory for rigorous tests so that we can get back to you before any further analysis is done. An asbestos survey is a valuable investment in order to preserve human life and ensure a successful sale in all forms of industrial and residential property real estate. Although this list will give you an idea of what to look for, it is not exhaustive, and if you have any doubts, you can contact a certified asbestos surveyor for advice. They will be able to evaluate the situation and provide you with appropriate advice.