How Much Asbestos Can Be Removed Without A License In Sussex

Welcome to Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, your trusted partner in asbestos removal services in Sussex and the South East of England. We understand that asbestos is a hazardous material that requires specialized knowledge and equipment to handle safely. That's why we provide reliable and affordable asbestos removal services to homeowners, builders, and businesses alike.

In this article, we will discuss the regulations surrounding asbestos removal in Sussex, including how much asbestos can be removed without a license, and who can do it. We will also highlight the risks associated with handling asbestos and the importance of disposing of asbestos waste in compliance with the law. We hope this information will help you make informed decisions about asbestos removal and protect your health and safety.

Asbestos in Sussex

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials in the UK until the 1980s. It was valued for its excellent fire-resistant, insulating, and sound-proofing properties. However, it was later discovered that asbestos fibers, when inhaled, can cause serious lung and respiratory diseases, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer.

Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) can still be found in many older buildings in Sussex, especially in roofs, walls, ceilings, and floors. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) estimates that around 5000 people die in the UK every year due to asbestos-related diseases. That's why asbestos removal is a vital and potentially life-saving service.

Licensed and Non-Licensed Asbestos Removal

There are two types of asbestos removal: licensed and non-licensed. Licensed asbestos removal is required when the ACMs are friable, which means they can crumble easily and release asbestos fibers into the air. Examples of friable ACMs include sprayed coatings, insulation, and some types of asbestos-containing boards.

Licensed asbestos removal must be carried out by a licensed contractor who has been trained and accredited by the HSE. The contractor must follow strict safety procedures and use specialized equipment and personal protective gear to prevent exposure to asbestos fibers. The contractor must also notify the HSE before starting the work and submit a report after the work is completed.

Non-licensed asbestos removal is allowed for non-friable ACMs, which means they are less likely to release asbestos fibers unless they are disturbed in some way. Examples of non-friable ACMs include vinyl floor tiles, cement sheets, and some types of textured coatings.

Non-licensed asbestos removal can be done by a competent person who has received proper training and knows how to handle asbestos safely. However, non-licensed removal must still comply with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, which state that the person must:

• Be trained and qualified to perform the work
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Follow safe work practices and procedures
• Dispose of asbestos waste in accordance with the law

How Much Asbestos Can Be Removed Without a License

The amount of asbestos that can be removed without a license depends on the type of ACM and the nature of the work. The HSE has established two different limits for non-licensed asbestos work: the notification level and the control limit.

The notification level applies when the amount of asbestos to be removed is less than 10 square meters (m2) of non-friable asbestos-containing material or 1 square meter of friable asbestos-containing material. At this level, the person doing the work must notify the HSE at least 14 days before starting the work and provide details of the work to be done.

The control limit applies when the amount of asbestos to be removed is between 10 and 1000 m2 of non-friable asbestos-containing material or 1 and 10 m2 of friable asbestos-containing material. At this level, the person doing the work must still follow the same safety procedures and disposal regulations as for licensed work, but they do not need to notify the HSE.

However, it is important to note that these limits apply only to non-licensed work. Any work involving friable asbestos-containing material or more than 1000 m2 of non-friable asbestos-containing material must be done by a licensed contractor.

Risks of Handling Asbestos

Handling asbestos poses significant risks to your health and safety. Asbestos fibers are microscopic and can easily become airborne when ACMs are disturbed, such as during cutting, drilling, or removal. Once inhaled, they can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause long-term damage. Symptoms of asbestos-related diseases may not appear for several decades after exposure, which makes early detection and prevention even more critical.

That's why it is essential to use proper PPE, including respirators, gloves, coveralls, and boots, when handling asbestos. You should also avoid creating dust, wet the ACMs to keep the fibers from becoming airborne, and seal off the work area to prevent contamination. Dispose of asbestos waste in tough, leak-proof bags and label them as hazardous materials. Transport the waste to an authorized landfill site that accepts asbestos waste.

Why Choose Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we are committed to providing reliable and affordable asbestos removal services to homeowners, builders, and businesses in Sussex and the South East of England. We have years of experience in handling all types of ACMs and can guarantee a safe and efficient removal process that complies with all relevant regulations.

We use state-of-the-art equipment and protective gear to ensure minimal exposure to asbestos fibers for everyone involved. Our team of trained and qualified professionals will take care of everything, from assessing your property for asbestos to providing a quote, carrying out the work, and disposing of the waste legally and responsibly. We are fully insured, and our work comes with a guarantee of quality and satisfaction.

If you want to use our services, please call us at 01273 978238 or email us at [email protected]. We are ready to help you with all your asbestos removal needs, and we are willing to take responsibility for any waste we generate in compliance with the law. Let us protect your health and your property from the dangers of asbestos.