Asbestos is a very harmful material that was widely used for construction in the early twentieth century. Asbestos was readily available, sturdy, and didn’t sustain damage easily. It was also quite cheap, thus making it a very attractive material for construction companies to use. Naturally, many construction companies began using asbestos as a primary material in construction, and hundreds of buildings across the country were constructed with it over the years.
However, by the end of the twentieth century, new research was released that highlighted the harmful effects of asbestos. It was soon found that asbestos was extremely harmful to human health. Asbestos fibres cause severe damage to the lungs, and it was found that asbestos is one of the leading causes of lung cancer. Naturally, governments began to take action immediately. Companies were commissioned and agencies were set up to inspect buildings that were made from asbestos and to tear down buildings where asbestos was found in large quantities.
Removing Asbestos
In the UK, there are many companies that currently offer asbestos removal services. These companies usually take on private contracts from local agencies and even sign on for government contracts. The first stage of the process is to carry out a detailed inspection of the building. This involves checking each and every part of the building for cracks in the asbestos. Asbestos, in its natural state, is not harmful. However, it becomes harmful when there is a crack in it. The asbestos fibres are then inhaled by the building inhabitants, and can cause serious damage to the lungs. Therefore, the first step is to carefully inspect the asbestos and determine which areas need repairs and removal.
After the inspection is complete, the company will then send over works to start the removal process. A number of different techniques are used for removing asbestos from the walls. Certain parts of the building will have to be completely torn down and rebuilt in order to get rid of the asbestos. Removing asbestos is a difficult job to say the least, and involves a great deal of work. After inspection, the company will give you a quote for the total costs of removal.
Dividing the Work
Usually, the removal of asbestos from any building requires work that is done in phases. The work will begin at the bottom floors and then continue until the very top. Obviously, because of the different issues involved and the space needed to work, you may have to relocate for a few days while the work is completed.
Asbestos removal is an essential requirement in the United Kingdom. There are many buildings that still feature a great deal of asbestos. You should carefully discuss the terms and conditions of the removal work and negotiate the fee with the removal company in order to ensure that you get the best rates. You can also request quotes from several different companies that currently offer removal services. This will allow you to select from the most affordable option for getting rid of all the asbestos in your building.