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Health & SafetyAsbestos - “The greatest single cause of work related deaths in the UK” (Source:HSE)
What is asbestos?A mineral fibre that can pollute air or water and cause cancer or asbestosis when inhaled.
Where is asbestos found in buildings?• Sprayed asbestos and asbestos loose packing –generally used in ceiling voids • Moulded or performed lagging – thermal insulation of pipes and boilers • Sprayed asbestos – ducts, firebreaks, panels, partitions,
soffit boards, ceiling panels and structural • Insulation boards, thermal insulation, partitions and ducts • Some ceiling tiles • Mill board and paper used for insulating electrical equipment • Asbestos cement products • Certain textured coatings • Bitumen roofing material • Vinyl or thermoplastic floor tiles
Please note that although these are the most likely uses and places where asbestos will be found, asbestos was used in many other materials.
Who has the duty to manage asbestos?The Control Of Asbestos Regulation 2012 states that the person or organisation that has a clear responsibility for the maintenance or repair of non-domestic premises through a contract or equivalent agreement has the duty to manage.
How do I manage asbestos?1. Find out if premises contains asbestos,
and, if so where it is and what condition. If in doubt, materials
2. Survey premises to assess risk. 3. Make a plan to manage risk. Who can test samples for asbestos?An organisation accredited to ISO17025, the accreditation scheme is run by UKAS.
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