Is Removal of Asbestos Contaminated Soil Notifiable in Sussex?

If you are planning to excavate or do any kind of soil work at a site in Sussex, you may be wondering whether it is necessary to notify the authorities in case the soil is contaminated with asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that was widely used in construction until the 1980s, and it can be very harmful to human health if it is inhaled. In this article, we will explore the regulations around asbestos contaminated soil in Sussex, and explain what you need to do to comply with the law.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex - Your Asbestos Removal Company in Sussex

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we are a reliable and experienced asbestos removal company that serves clients in Sussex and the South East of England. We have been in the industry for many years, and we know the regulations and the risks associated with asbestos very well. Our team of professionals can help you with everything from asbestos surveys to asbestos removal and disposal, and we are committed to working safely and efficiently at all times.

Understanding Asbestos Contaminated Soil

Before we dive into the regulations, it is important to understand what asbestos contaminated soil is and how it can affect human health. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was commonly used in construction materials such as insulation, roofing, and flooring. If these materials are disturbed, the asbestos fibers can become airborne and be inhaled by people nearby. Asbestos exposure can cause serious health problems such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma.

When asbestos-containing materials degrade over time, or when they are removed improperly, the asbestos fibers can contaminate the surrounding soil. Asbestos contaminated soil may not always be visible to the naked eye, but it can be present on construction sites, brownfield sites, or anywhere that asbestos-containing materials have been used or stored.

Asbestos Contaminated Soil as Waste

Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, asbestos contaminated soil is classified as a hazardous waste, and it must be disposed of in a manner that does not harm human health or the environment. The regulations require that the waste must be treated or disposed of at a licensed facility that is equipped to handle hazardous waste.

A waste carrier's license is also required to transport asbestos containing waste materials. The regulations in this area are strict, and non-compliance can lead to serious penalties including hefty fines or even imprisonment.

Notifiable Non-Licensed Work

Not all asbestos work is classified as licensed work. Some types of work are classified as notifiable non-licensed work (NNLW), which means that they do not require a separate license but still need to be notified to the relevant authorities.

Removing asbestos contaminated soil falls under the category of notifiable non-licensed work, and you will need to follow strict regulations to ensure that you are complying with the law. If you are unsure whether the nature of your work is NNLW or not, we recommend that you seek professional advice.

Asbestos Survey

Before any soil works are carried out, asbestos survey should always be conducted by a professional company. The asbestos survey ascertains whether asbestos is present on the site, and to what extent of that asbestos can be found in the soil. This typically involves taking samples of the soil and testing them for asbestos, to ensure that the work can be carried out safely and without risk to human health.

Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 is the governing regulation when it comes to dealing with asbestos contaminated soil. These regulations detail the requirements for safe transportation, disposal, and removal of asbestos contaminated waste.

If you are carrying out NNLW involving removal of asbestos-contaminated soil, you will need to follow the procedures set out in the regulations. These procedures include:

• Notifying the relevant authorities at least 14 days before the proposed work is set to commence.

• Including risk assessments, method statements, and plans for the safe removal and disposal of asbestos-contaminated soil.

• Ensuring safe working practices are carried out at all times, including using the correct protective equipment.

Asbestos Industry Working Group Assist

The Asbestos Industry Working Group (AIWG) was set up in 2010 to assist with the implementation of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. The AIWG aims to provide technical guidance and support to companies dealing with asbestos, and to ensure that industry standards are maintained.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we are a proud member of the AIWG. By working with the AIWG, we know that we are maintaining the highest possible industry standards and that we are providing our clients with the safest and most efficient service.

Risks of Not Complying with Asbestos Regulations

The consequences of not complying with asbestos regulations can be severe. The potential health risks associated with asbestos exposure mean that the regulations are among the most strictly enforced in the UK.

By not following the regulations, you could be putting yourself and others at risk of serious health problems, as well as facing potential legal action. The penalties for non-compliance can be significant, both in terms of the potential fines and the reputational damage that can be done to your business.

Contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex for Your Soil Waste Removal

If you have any concerns about asbestos contaminated soil and how it is dealt with, or if you need professional assistance with your soil waste removal, please contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex. We are available to answer any questions you may have, and our team of professionals can provide you with a range of services to ensure that your project is carried out safely and in compliance with current regulations.

You can reach us on 01273 978238, or by email at [email protected]. Alternatively, you can visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-sussex.co.uk to learn more about our services and to request a quote.