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Asbestos

Asbestos and building

If you're going to do building or refurbishment work, you need to think about asbestos being present in the structure.

Asbestos cement product

There is only a danger when the material becomes damaged and asbestos fibres are released to the air. Breathing in these fibres can cause serious damage to your health and may lead to a number of fatal diseases.

We recommend that you employ a professional to remove any asbestos material. Please visit www.arca.org.uk to find a licensed contractor.

Asbestos cement product may be safe to leave in place if it:

  • in good condition
  • is not likely to be damaged
  • is not likely to be worked on

Otherwise, you will need to seal it or have it removed in a safe and controlled manner.

What age of property is affected?

Any property built or refurbished between 1950 to 1980 could contain asbestos.

Disposal of household asbestos

Asbestos waste is subject to waste management controls set out in the 1996 Special Waste Regulations.

Gloucestershire County Council provides household asbestos disposal facilities.

Gloucester City Council do not provide an asbestos disposal service.

Where can I find further information regarding asbestos?

The HSE (Health and Safety Executive) have detailed information regarding asbestos www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/.

Disposal of asbestos in a commercial building

If you’re the landlord, tenant or managing agent of a commercial property you may be responsible for managing asbestos, unless your contract or lease says otherwise.

Gov.uk has more details on asbestos regulations for a commercial property.