Asbestos

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What is asbestos

Asbestos is a name for several naturally occurring fibrous minerals. These minerals contain tiny, strong fibres that do not dissolve in water or evaporate, are resistant to heat, fire, chemical and biological degradation and are mechanically strong.

When is asbestos a risk

Asbestos can be dangerous if disturbed. Breathing in asbestos fibres can cause serious health problems.

Asbestos fibres are released when it is:

  • moved
  • touched
  • damaged
  • worn down

If you think you have asbestos, do not touch it.

What to do if you have asbestos

Get professional advice before you remove asbestos.

If you hire a contractor:

  • ask to see their current asbestos handlers licence
  • get a written quote before they start work

Use an Asbestos Removal Contractors Association (ARCA) approved contractor if you are:

  • handling large amounts of asbestos cement
  • removing or disposing of other types of asbestos from a business property

ARCA has a list of approved members. 

Asbestos removal from your home

You can find out about the household asbestos removal service. This is by the City of London for Barnet Council.

You can take cement asbestos to the Hornsey Street Reuse and Recycling Centre. You must book an appointment first. 

To book an appointment:

Address: Hornsey Street, London N7 8HU

Asbestos removal from your business

If you are an employer or business owner, you must follow the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

Anyone doing high-risk work on asbestos insulation, asbestos coating, or asbestos insulating board (AIB) needs a licence from the Health and Safety Executive.

Apply for an asbestos licence