Asbestos was widely used throughout UK construction during much of the 20th century due to its strength, durability, and fire-resistant properties. Although all forms of asbestos were banned in the UK in 1999, asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) remain present in many residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
Common locations where asbestos may be found include:
While asbestos-containing materials that remain in good condition may present a relatively low risk, any activity that disturbs these materials can release microscopic fibres into the air. Once airborne, asbestos fibres can remain suspended for extended periods and may be inhaled by workers, occupants, or members of the public.
For this reason, asbestos removal and remediation projects require strict control measures to minimise fibre release and prevent contamination from spreading beyond the work area.
Creating Safe Working Environments
Effective asbestos management during removal operations relies on a combination of containment, filtration, extraction, decontamination, and cleaning procedures.
Specialist equipment commonly used during asbestos works includes:
Decontamination Units
Decontamination units provide a controlled environment where workers can safely remove contaminated personal protective equipment (PPE), shower, and transition from the work area without spreading asbestos fibres.
Negative Pressure Air Filtration Units (NPU’s)
HEPA-filtered air scrubbers help maintain air quality within controlled environments by continuously removing airborne particulates and asbestos fibres. These systems play a vital role in maintaining negative pressure and reducing airborne contamination.
H-Class Vacuum Cleaners
H-Class vacuum cleaners are specifically designed for the collection of hazardous dusts, including asbestos debris. High-efficiency filtration systems capture fine fibres while preventing them from being released back into the environment.
Wet Injection Systems
Wet injection systems help create safer asbestos removal environments by injecting water into asbestos-containing materials to suppress dust generation at source and prevent airborne fibre release. This reduces exposure risks for workers and supports safe, compliant removal practices.
Misting Cannons/Perimeter Misting Systems
Misting cannons help create safer environments in asbestos picking and sorting operations by producing a fine water mist that suppresses airborne dust and fibres. They are also effective for stockpile control, reducing dust emissions from contaminated materials, helping to minimise exposure risks and maintain site safety.
