Asbestos was fully banned in the UK back in 1999. However, it was extensively used in houses before it was banned and is still present in older homes today. It’s estimated that a whopping 50% of period properties still contain asbestos today.
If you are exposed to asbestos without being informed, you should file an asbestos claim with your solicitor.
So, what is asbestos?
Asbestos was a natural fibre used in the construction industry before 1999. It was used in insulation boards, floor tiles, spray coatings, textured paint and cement products. It was used throughout the home. Asbestos tiles were particularly common in the 1950s, 60s and 70s.
When damaged, asbestos releases tiny fibres that are dangerous when inhaled. The fibres remain in the air so they can be inhaled by anyone walking back. The fibres can also be swallowed and found in our water, vegetation, and soil system.
Scientists warned us about the dangers of asbestos a long time ago
In the 1920s, scientists started to warn us about the risks of using asbestos. They began conducting studies on whether asbestos could lead to respiratory illnesses. They later discovered that those who have been exposed to asbestos have a high risk of developing cancer. You must breathe in high concentrations of asbestos for a long period of time for it to impact the lungs.
Asbestosis is a condition that impacts your breathing and leads to the enlargement of the heart. It can take decades to develop and does not show signs after the initial exposure.
Why did we use asbestos?
The UK used asbestos because it was cheap and available. The material is heat resistant, fire resistance and sound-absorbing. It’s basically the perfect material to build a house with – except for its toxic fibres.
In 1985, The UK government banned the importation and use of blue and brown asbestos. It took another decade for them to ban white asbestos as well.
In 2002, the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations was introduced. Anyone removing asbestos from a building had to have an asbestos license so they could handle the material safely. There were also maximum exposure limits set in the regulations.
Does it exist today?
Many period properties still contain asbestos unless they have been fully renovated. If you are buying a home, you should hire a surveyor to look around the property. They can identify any traces of asbestos and make sure the house is safe to live in. They might find it cement water tanks, loose-fill insulation or on sprayed ceiling coatings.
Asbestos is no longer used in the construction industry, and there are strict laws about its removal. If you are removing asbestos in a property, you should wear the appropriate PPE and proceed with the utmost caution.
