Safety Protocols during Asbestos Removal: Protecting People and Places

Asbestos, once widely used in UK construction for its strength and heat resistance, is now recognised as a dangerous material that poses serious health risks when disturbed. The removal of asbestos is not just about compliance, it’s about safeguarding workers, inhabitants, and the wider community. Strict safety protocols are in place across the industry to ensure that asbestos removal is carried out safely and effectively.

Why Safety Protocols Matter

Asbestos fibres are microscopic and, when airborne, can be inhaled without notice. Prolonged exposure can lead to diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Because of these risks, asbestos removal is a highly regulated process in the UK, overseen by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Key Safety Measures During Asbestos Removal

Comprehensive Risk Assessment

Before any removal begins, a licensed asbestos contractor conducts a detailed survey and risk assessment. This identifies the type of asbestos, its condition, and the safest method of removal. The assessment also considers how to protect people nearby and prevent contamination.

Controlled Work Areas

The removal area is sealed off using specialist enclosures and negative pressure units to prevent asbestos fibres from escaping. This containment ensures surrounding rooms, properties, or public spaces remain safe during the process.

Air Monitoring

Independent air testing is carried out before, during, and after removal. Continuous monitoring helps verify that asbestos fibres are not escaping into inhabited or public areas.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Trained operatives wear appropriate PPE such as disposable overalls, gloves, and respiratory protective equipment (RPE). This reduces the risk of exposure to workers and prevents contamination outside the work area.

Decontamination Units

Specialised decontamination units are set up on-site, ensuring workers can safely remove contaminated clothing and equipment before leaving the controlled area. This prevents asbestos from spreading to clean zones.

Safe Waste Handling

All asbestos waste is double-bagged, labelled, and transported to licensed disposal facilities in sealed containers. Waste management is strictly controlled under the Carriage of Dangerous Goods (CDG) regulations.

Clearance and Certification

Once removal is complete, a four-stage clearance process is undertaken by an independent analyst. Only when the air is confirmed to be safe is the area reoccupied, and a Certificate of Reoccupation issued.

Protecting Communities, Not Just Workers

These safety measures are not only designed to protect removal teams but also to safeguard building occupants, neighbours, and the wider community. From schools and hospitals to residential blocks and commercial sites, the strict enforcement of safety protocols ensures asbestos removal is carried out with minimal disruption and maximum safety.

Asbestos removal is a specialist job requiring rigorous safety standards. For property owners, tenants, and the public, these protocols provide peace of mind that every possible step is taken to prevent exposure. Partnering with a licensed asbestos removal contractor is essential to ensure compliance, safety, and the health of everyone involved.

How H&S Asbestos can help

We are committed to continuing to maintain, and raise, our standards to remain at the forefront of our industry. By prioritising asbestos removal, you’re not just addressing a current concern, you’re investing in a future free of preventable risks. And that’s priceless.

We are a fully licensed Asbestos Removal company based on the South Coast. We have been established since 2020, and our management team have over 50 years of industry experience.

Asbestos removal is a meticulous process involving multiple stages to ensure safety and regulatory compliance. Proper planning, execution, and documentation are crucial to effectively manage the risks associated with asbestos exposure.

If you are unsure or would like to talk to the team about potential asbestos on-site, please get in contact on 02392 833178 or by emailing info@handsasbestos.co.uk.