Please enable JavaScript to use this website fully.
Skip to content

0800 030 6988

Asbestos Myths

Posted on by Asbestos Waste Solutions Limited

Since asbestos has been such a popular construction material for hundreds of years, and with over six types of asbestos and hundreds of different applications, there is no surprise that confusion has arisen as to what the facts actually are. To help combat this, Asbestos Waste Solutions are on hand to provide some answers. In this article, we’ll debunk some of the myths surrounding asbestos, ensuring that any misinformation out there doesn’t prove fatal.

The myth

Only blue and brown asbestos is dangerous, white asbestos is safe.

The truth

While it’s generally recognised that blue and brown asbestos are indeed more dangerous than white asbestos, it would be incorrect to say that white asbestos is safe. It’s important to remember that exposure to any asbestos is dangerous, including white asbestos.

The myth

You will feel ill after being exposed to asbestos.

The truth

This is false. After being exposed to asbestos, there are no signs or symptoms to indicate this. Although the body will try to expel the fibres (which is what actually causes the damage), this activity will go undetected for up to 40 years after the asbestos has been inhaled.

The myth

Most asbestos has been removed from buildings in the UK now.

The truth

Unfortunately this is not the case. While many councils and companies have worked tirelessly to remove asbestos across the UK wherever it is found, there is still a great deal left, especially in public and commercial buildings. Here’s a frightening thought – it is believed that as much as 75% of all schools in the UK contain asbestos, perhaps because it’s only present in the fabric of the building, making it extremely difficult to be identified easily. With this in mind, never assume that your building – domestic or commercial – doesn’t contain asbestos. Always ask questions before any work is conducted.

The myth

Asbestos is harmless in small amounts, I don’t need to worry.

The truth

This stems from the idea that construction workers and other contractors who come face to face with asbestos are far more likely to become ill, so regular citizens who aren’t in this line of work don’t need to worry. However, as it stands, there is no known safe level of asbestos exposure, despite the fact that the risk of developing an asbestos related disease will increase proportionately with the amount inhaled.

The myth

Asbestos is easy to recognise just by looking at it.

The truth

Laboratory testing is the only way to confirm if asbestos is present – it cannot be detected by simply looking at it.

Asbestos Waste Solutions provide comprehensive asbestos waste disposal solutions to asbestos removals companies, building contractors and the general public. With over 20 years of experience we have grown to become a nationwide supplier of asbestos skips, asbestos collection vans for hire, as well as a wide range of safety equipment to make asbestos removal safe and sound for all involved. To secure maximum protection against mineral asbestos, or to learn more about our products and services, contact our team today.

This entry was posted in Industry News. Bookmark the permalink.