Have you discovered an asbestos floor in your property? If so, you need expert help and advice. Even if you suspect that your floor tiles may contain asbestos, it's essential that you get them checked out to make sure.
Asbestos SOS is a professional asbestos removal company, and we specialise not just in asbestos flooring removal in Settle but also offering advice on asbestos management. We can resolve your asbestos problem, no matter how big or small.
Asbestos was once regarded as a 'wonder material', used extensively in industrial and commercial buildings, as well as domestic settings. It found its way into more than four thousand different products, prized for its heat-resistant, insulating, fire-proof, water-proof and sound-proof qualities.
It was often used to strengthen and stiffen plaster and cement. It was also used in boilers, roofs, pipes and lagging, to name a few.
Asbestos floor tiles became popular in the first half of the 20th century, as they were hard-wearing and durable, with increased fire-resistance and sound-absorbing qualities.
However, concerns were soon raised about health issues related to the inhalation of asbestos fibres. This can happen when asbestos-containing materials become damaged or deteriorate over time, as they release dust and asbestos particles that contain tiny fibres. When these microscopic fibres enter the lungs, they can cause several extremely unpleasant health conditions (see below).
Eventually, asbestos was completely banned from use in construction materials in 1999.
This means that any property constructed before this time will almost definitely contain asbestos somewhere.
Exposure to asbestos can cause a number of serious health conditions, some of the most common being:
Cancers:
Non-cancerous conditions:
It's important to note that symptoms of these conditions can take many years, even decades, to develop after exposure to asbestos. This means that someone who was exposed to asbestos decades ago may not be aware of any health problems until later in life.
These conditions typically affect those who worked extensively in the construction industry or associated trades, where exposure to asbestos-containing materials was common.
If you think you may have been exposed to asbestos, or you are concerned about any symptoms, it's important to see a doctor. They can advise you on the best course of action, which may include further medical tests and monitoring.
Although the above conditions are serious and can be fatal, early detection increases the chances of receiving the right treatment and care.
The asbestos floor tile removal process must always follow strict protocols to ensure the safety of all concerned, including our staff, the occupants, and anyone else in the area.
A typical asbestos tile removal project goes something like this:
Before any removal can begin, we need to confirm the presence of asbestos. A certified asbestos surveyor will take samples of the flooring and adhesive underneath. Once this has been analysed, the results will determine the type and condition of asbestos present, helping us to plan the removal process.
The affected area, ideally the entire room, needs thorough containment. All doorways, windows and air vents are sealed with heavy-duty plastic sheets and masking tape. Floor-to-wall junctions are sealed, and plastic barriers are used to create a negative pressure zone within the work area. This prevents asbestos fibres from escaping into the building.
Protective gear is paramount to protect both workers and occupants from exposure. This includes:
All PPE should be donned before entering the containment zone and disposed of safely after removal is complete.
The removal method depends on the type of asbestos flooring and its condition. Generally, the process involves:
Once the floor is fully stripped, a thorough cleaning of the subfloor and surrounding surfaces is essential. A HEPA vacuum cleaner is used to remove any remaining dust, while walls and equipment are wiped down with damp cloth.
The containment barriers are then carefully dismantled and disposed of, ensuring no fibres escape.
Asbestos waste must be disposed of in accordance with strict regulations. Licenced waste carriers will transport sealed containers to approved disposal sites that accept asbestos waste. These are usually operated by your local council and are situated in recycling centres.
Finally, an air monitoring specialist will conduct air clearance testing to confirm no asbestos fibres remain in the air. Only after a clean clearance certificate is issued can the containment zone be dismantled and the room reoccupied.
Remember: This guide is a basic overview, and individual cases may require specific procedures.
Our dedicated team advanced techniques and unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility ensure that with us you're not just removing asbestos but also securing a safer healthier future for your space.