Asbestos remains one of the most misunderstood health hazards in UK homes and commercial buildings. Despite its ban over 20 years ago, asbestos myths still cause confusion, and in many cases, lead to unsafe handling or neglect of the risks altogether.
In this blog, we explore seven of the most common asbestos myths and facts to give you a better understanding on how to stay safe, when to take action, and why professional support is essential. Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, property manager, or contractor, this blog will help you make informed, compliant decisions.
Myth #1: White asbestos isn’t dangerous – only blue and brown asbestos are harmful
Many people believe that only blue (crocidolite) and brown (amosite) asbestos are harmful, and that white asbestos (chrysotile) is safer or deemed as ‘less toxic’.
However, this is probably one of the most common asbestos myths. The truth is, all asbestos types are dangerous. White asbestos was widely used in the UK, especially in homes, until its ban in 1999. It can still be found in textured coatings (Artex), ceiling tiles, cement products, and insulation.
Myth #2: Short-term exposure to asbestos isn’t harmful
Again, many people believe that you need long-term exposure over a long period of time to be at risk of the harmful effects of asbestos.
One of the most dangerous assumptions is that brief exposure to asbestos is safe. In reality, there is no safe level of asbestos exposure. Even short-term contact with airborne fibres can cause long-term health issues – often decades after the exposure occurs. That’s why it’s crucial to treat suspected asbestos with caution. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides further guidance and clarifications on asbestos exposure.
Myth #3: Buildings built after 2000 are asbestos-free
Because Blue and Brown asbestos was banned in 1985, and White asbestos was banned in 1999, many people assume that any building constructed after these times is asbestos-free.
In actual fact, leftover stock was still used after the ban, and some builders used reclaimed or second-hand materials that contained asbestos. As well as that, many buildings were designed before the ban and only completed afterwards – although there have been a limited number of cases of this.
If your property was constructed before 2000, or shortly after, it’s recommended to arrange an asbestos survey before you undertake renovation or demolition work.
Myth #4: You can spot asbestos just by looking at it
People often think that you can identify asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) based purely on colour or texture.
However, you cannot identify asbestos by sight alone. Many ACMs look identical to non-asbestos versions, especially in products like cement board, insulation, floor tiles, and textured coatings. UKAS-accreditated lab testing is the only way to confirm if asbestos is present.
Never guess if you suspect asbestos in your property – you should always arrange professional testing of any suspected materials.
Myth #5: It’s fine to remove asbestos yourself if you wear a mask and gloves
Some assume that basic PPE, like a mask and gloves, is enough to safely remove asbestos from their property.
The truth however, is that DIY asbestos removal is not safe and in some cases illegal. Licensed removal involves following strict control measures and using specialist equipment, such as air filtration units, controlled environments, specialist waste handling, and full compliance with HSE guidelines – something we at Midlands Asbestos Solutions (MAS), adhere to.
Myth #6: Only people who work in factories or construction sites are at risk
There’s a belief that only tradespeople who handle asbestos daily are at risk of the effects of asbestos.
While direct exposure carries a high risk, secondary exposure is also a concern. Many older schools, hospitals, and offices may still contain asbestos to this day, and people in these buildings – such as teachers, nurses, and workers – could potentially be exposed to airborne fibres if the ACM has been disturbed.
Myth #7: Asbestos only affects air quality – it can’t contaminate water
Because we usually talk about asbestos fibres being airborne, so many people assume it’s not a water risk.
However, asbestos can also be found in water supply materials, such as asbestos cement water pipes. While the risk of exposure to asbestos from drinking water is significantly lower than inhalation, they still exist and fibre breakdown in ageing pipes can contribute to contamination.
Contact us for professional asbestos services
Understanding the facts on asbestos is essential for keeping people safe and ensuring legal compliance, particularly with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. These common asbestos myths can lead to wrong assumptions, illegal work, or long-term health issues.
If you’d like more expert guidance on asbestos, or to enquire about any of our professional asbestos services, don’t hesitate to contact us today. At MAS, we have over 30 years experience in providing fully licensed and regulated asbestos solutions, including asbestos removal, surveys and testing, asbestos disposal, and more.
Speak to us today and learn how we help homeowners, landlords, and businesses across the UK deal with asbestos safely and legally.
Asbestos myths and facts FAQS
Is there such a thing as safe asbestos?
No, one of the biggest asbestos myths is that certain types (like white asbestos) are safe. In reality, all types of asbestos are hazardous to health if they have been disturbed.
Can you tell if something contains asbestos just by looking?
No. Asbestos-containing materials can often look identical to non-asbestos materials, which is why professional testing is the only way to be sure asbestos is present.
Can I remove asbestos myself if I wear protective equipment?
DIY asbestos removal is not safe, and in some cases, illegal in the UK. Even with PPE, you risk disturbing and spreading fibres. Safe removal should be carried out by licensed professionals who follow strict HSE regulations, like MAS.
Why is it important to understand the facts on asbestos?
Believing asbestos myths can lead to unsafe practices, unnecessary fibre exposure, and non-compliance with UK law. Understanding the facts on asbestos ensures better protection for your health, your property, and others around you.
