Asbestos is a natural fibre that was commonly used in construction until the late 1990s due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties. However, it was later discovered that asbestos posed serious health risks, leading to its ban in the UK. Despite the ban, some older buildings, particularly properties built before 2000, may still contain asbestos.
Understanding the key differences between domestic asbestos removal and commercial asbestos removal can make a significant impact on the safety of your property and its occupants. Each process includes specific regulatory requirements and specialised techniques and in this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about these essential services. First, let’s take a look at what asbestos is.
What is asbestos and why is it hazardous?
Asbestos is a mineral fibre that was widely used in construction due to its strength, heat resistance, and insulating properties. There are three main types of asbestos fibres: crocidolite (blue asbestos), amosite (brown asbestos), and chrysotile (white asbestos). These fibres were commonly used in various building materials, such as insulation, roofing, flooring, and cement.
Asbestos is hazardous due to the health risks it poses when its fibres are released into the air and inhaled. When asbestos-containing materials deteriorate or are disturbed, tiny asbestos fibres become airborne and can be easily inhaled. These fibres can then penetrate the lungs and cause serious health conditions, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. It’s important to handle asbestos with caution and seek professional assistance for its safe removal and disposal.
What is domestic asbestos removal?
Domestic asbestos removal refers to the process of safely removing and disposing of asbestos-containing materials from residential properties. It’s crucial for maintaining a safe living environment as exposure to airborne asbestos fibres can lead to serious health issues. Some key insights of domestic asbestos removal include:
- Smaller-scale projects
- Often focuses on specific areas of a property
- Less likely to require permits
- Often lower overall costs
As domestic projects typically involve removing asbestos from individual homes or smaller residential buildings, the scope of the work will often be limited to specific areas of the home, such as roofs, ceilings, or floor tiles, meaning the extent of the work is generally smaller in square metres compared to commercial projects.
However, it’s still crucial to hire licensed asbestos removal contractors, like Midlands Asbestos Solutions (MAS), who have years of experience working in domestic settings to ensure the safe removal and disposal of asbestos.
What is commercial asbestos removal?
Commercial asbestos removal is the process of safely and professionally removing asbestos-containing materials from commercial buildings or properties. Commercial projects often involve larger buildings, such as offices, factories, and public spaces. Some key insights of commercial asbestos removal include:
- Larger-scale projects
- Often include more extensive asbestos removal
- May require specialised permits
- Higher overall costs
Commercial asbestos removal projects often involve the removal of a higher amount of asbestos-containing materials and therefore, the process may encompass multiple floors, rooms, or sections of the building. The extent of the work is usually measured in square metres and requires specialised asbestos removal contractors, like MAS, who are experienced in handling larger-scale projects.
It’s crucial to hire licensed professionals for commercial asbestos removal as they have the necessary tools to handle the safe removal and disposal of asbestos. They also ensure compliance with regulations and the safety of building occupants and workers.
What are the approaches and techniques used in asbestos removal?
The approach and techniques used in commercial and domestic asbestos removal depend on the specific requirements of the project. Licensed asbestos removal contractors have the expertise to assess the situation through asbestos surveying, allowing them to determine the most effective approach for each project.
The type of work involved in handling asbestos can vary, from encapsulation or sealing the asbestos to prevent the release of fibres, to complete asbestos land clearance. Following an asbestos survey, licensed contractors will develop a management plan to outline the necessary actions for safely managing and removing asbestos.
The removal process may involve the use of specialised equipment too, such as negative air pressure units, High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Professional asbestos removers may also create sealed containment areas to prevent the spread of asbestos fibres. These techniques are designed to ensure the safe and effective removal of asbestos from commercial and domestic properties.
What is the cost of commercial and domestic asbestos removal?
The cost of asbestos removal can vary between commercial and domestic projects due to the differences in scale and scope. As commercial projects often involve larger buildings and more extensive removal processes, this can result in a higher overall commercial asbestos removal cost. They’ll more than likely require specialised permits and approvals, which can also add to the overall expense.
On the other hand, domestic projects typically involve smaller-scale work and may focus on specific areas of the home. Whilst it can vary depending on the size and complexity of the project, it is generally a lower overall domestic asbestos removal cost compared to commercial removal.
It’s important to note that the cost of asbestos removal should not be the sole factor in your decision-making. The safety and well-being of occupants should be the primary consideration and property owners should consult with licensed asbestos removal contractors, like MAS, to obtain detailed cost estimates based on the specific requirements of their projects.
The importance of professional asbestos removal
As we’ve mentioned throughout, professional asbestos removal is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals in both commercial and domestic properties as they are licensed, qualified and trained in handling asbestos in strict accordance with regulations.
In commercial properties, professional asbestos removal is necessary to comply with asbestos regulations set by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in legal consequences and harm the reputation of a business. Additionally, professional removal ensures that the asbestos is properly contained and disposed of, minimising the risk of exposure to employees, customers or anyone involved with the commercial property.
In domestic properties, professional asbestos removal is crucial for protecting the health of home owners and their families. DIY removal attempts can lead to unintentional exposure to asbestos fibres, which can have severe long-term health effects. Professional asbestos removal contractors have the expertise and equipment to safely remove and dispose of asbestos, reducing the risk of exposure and ensuring the safety of occupants.
Once the removal process is complete, a certificate will be issued to verify that the asbestos has been safely removed and the property is asbestos-free. This certificate serves as proof of compliance with asbestos regulations and can be important for future reference, such as selling a property.
Contact us today for a free quote
Understanding the nuances between commercial and domestic asbestos removal is important for a safe and compliant process. Factors such as project scale and safety protocols differ significantly between these two types of asbestos removal.
At Midlands Asbestos Solutions, we pride ourselves on providing safe and fully licensed asbestos services for both domestic and commercial properties across the UK. With over 30 years experience, you can be sure we’re specialists in handling all types of asbestos. Contact us today for a free, no obligation quote, or to speak to one of our experts.
Commercial and domestic asbestos removal FAQs
How do I know if my property contains asbestos?
To determine if your property contains asbestos, you can arrange for an asbestos survey conducted by a professional, like MAS. Sampling of suspected materials will be done, and detailed information will be provided on the presence and condition of asbestos-containing materials.
How long does asbestos removal take?
The duration of asbestos removal depends on the scope of the project. Small areas might take a day or two to complete, while larger or more complex projects could take several days to weeks.
Is it necessary to remove asbestos if it’s not damaged?
If asbestos-containing materials are in good condition and undisturbed, they may not pose an immediate risk. Encapsulation or regular monitoring might be recommended instead of removal. For further information and professional advice, contact us today.
Can I remove asbestos myself?
It’s strongly advised against attempting to remove asbestos yourself. Professional asbestos removal ensures that the material is handled safely and disposed of properly in accordance with regulations and minimises any health risks to you and your loved ones.