Does Asbestos Removal Require Licensed Contractor In Sussex?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once widely used in the construction industry due to its heat-resistant properties. Unfortunately, it has since been discovered that exposure to asbestos can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. As a result, the removal of asbestos is now tightly regulated, with strict requirements placed on those who remove it.

If you live in Sussex, you may be wondering whether asbestos removal in the county requires a licensed contractor. In this article, we will explore this topic in depth, examining the risks associated with working with asbestos, the regulatory landscape surrounding asbestos removal in Sussex, and the importance of using a licensed contractor.

Who Are We?

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we are a company that specializes in the safe and efficient removal of asbestos from commercial and residential properties in Sussex and the South East of England. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, we have built a reputation for providing high-quality, affordable asbestos removal services that prioritize the health and safety of our clients and the wider community.

The Risks Associated With Working With Asbestos

Asbestos is a hazardous material that, if disturbed, can release tiny fibers into the air that can be inhaled and cause damage to the lungs. The risk of exposure to asbestos is highest when the material is damaged or worn, releasing fibers into the air that can then be breathed in.

The danger of working with asbestos lies in the fact that it is often impossible to tell whether a material contains asbestos just by looking at it. As a result, workers who are not properly trained may inadvertently disturb asbestos-containing materials, putting themselves and others at risk.

The Regulatory Landscape Surrounding Asbestos Removal in Sussex

Removal of asbestos is tightly regulated in Sussex and throughout the UK to prevent exposure to harmful materials. The main legislation governing asbestos removal is the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012).

CAR 2012 places a legal obligation on duty holders (i.e. those responsible for maintaining non-domestic premises such as employers or landlords) to manage the risks associated with asbestos in the workplace. This includes identifying whether asbestos is present on the premises, assessing the risk posed by the asbestos, and taking appropriate action to control the risk.

When it comes to the removal of asbestos, CAR 2012 requires that licensed asbestos removal contractors undertake any work that is classified as "notifiable non-licensed work" (NNLW). This includes work on asbestos-containing materials that are in a poor or damaged condition and may pose a risk to health.

The Importance of Using a Licensed Asbestos Removal Contractor

While NNLW work can technically be carried out by non-licensed contractors, the risks associated with this type of work are so great that it is strongly recommended that only licensed asbestos removal contractors carry out such work.

Licensed asbestos removal contractors have undergone rigorous training and are required to adhere to strict health and safety standards when carrying out asbestos removal work. They use specialized equipment and follow specific procedures to ensure that asbestos fibres are not released into the air during the removal process.

Using a non-licensed contractor to remove asbestos is not only illegal under CAR 2012, but can also result in serious health risks for those involved in the work, as well as for occupants of the building where the work is taking place. If asbestos is not removed safely and correctly, it can release deadly fibers into the air, posing a danger to everyone in the vicinity.

What Work Needs to be Carried Out by a Licensed Asbestos Removal Contractor?

As mentioned, licensed asbestos removal contractors are required to carry out any work that is classified as NNLW. This includes work on asbestos-containing materials that are in a poor or damaged condition and may pose a risk to health.

In addition to NNLW, any work that involves the removal of "friable" asbestos, which is asbestos that is in a soft, crumbly, or powdery state, must also be carried out by a licensed contractor. This includes materials such as pipe insulation or textured coatings.

However, not all asbestos removal work requires a licensed contractor. Non-licensed contractors can undertake work that is classified as "non-notifiable non-licensed work" (NNNLW). This includes work on asbestos-containing materials that are in good condition and pose little risk to health.

How to Find a Licensed Asbestos Removal Contractor in Sussex

If you need asbestos removed from your property in Sussex, it is important to use a licensed asbestos removal contractor to ensure that the work is carried out safely and correctly.

To find a licensed contractor, you can check the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) website, which has a list of licensed asbestos removal contractors in the UK. You can also ask for recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have had asbestos removed from their property in the past.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we are a licensed asbestos removal contractor that offers affordable and efficient removal services to clients in Sussex and the South East of England. We are committed to providing high-quality services that prioritize the health and safety of our clients and the wider community.

Conclusion

Asbestos removal in Sussex requires a licensed contractor to safely and efficiently remove asbestos-containing materials from properties. The risks associated with asbestos exposure are too great to entrust to non-licensed contractors or to attempt yourself.

If you need asbestos removed from your property, make sure to use a licensed asbestos removal contractor such as Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex. At our company, we prioritize the health and safety of our clients and the wider community, and we are committed to providing affordable and efficient asbestos removal services that meet the strict requirements of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. Contact us today at 01273 978238 or email us at [email protected] to learn more about our services or to request a quote.