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Asbestos Awareness

Asbestos became increasingly popular among manufacturers and builders in the late 19th century because of its sound absorption, and its resistance to fire heat, electrical and chemical damage.

The Control of Asbestos regulations 2006 came into force on 13 November 2006 (Asbestos Regulations - SI 2006/2739)

The Regulations prohibit the importation, supply and use of all forms of asbestos. They continue the ban introduced for blue and brown asbestos in 1985 and for white asbestos in 1999. They also continue to ban the second-hand use of asbestos products such as asbestos cement sheets and asbestos boards and tiles; including panels which have been covered with paint or textured plaster containing asbestos.

REMEMBER: The ban applies to new use of asbestos. If existing asbestos containing materials are in good condition, they may be left in place, their condition monitored and managed to ensure they are not disturbed.

If you have no intention of removing asbestos but work on buildings built or refurbished before the year 2000, asbestos could be present. You will need awareness training so you know how to avoid the risks