Understanding Asbestos and Its Dangers in Northern Ireland

Asbestos, once heralded as a miracle material in the construction industry, is now recognised for its severe health risks. This blog post aims to shed light on what asbestos is, why it’s dangerous, and the critical role of asbestos surveys in managing this hazard, particularly in Northern Ireland.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals known for their strength, flexibility, and resistance to heat, chemicals, and electricity. Historically, asbestos was extensively used in the UK from the 1940s until it was banned in 1999 due to the health risks associated with its fibres. You can find asbestos in any building constructed or refurbished before the year 2000, including homes, schools, hospitals, and commercial buildings. Its common applications included insulation, fireproofing, and in materials like floor tiles, cement products, and roofing materials.

Health Risks Associated with Asbestos

When asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are disturbed or damaged, they release tiny fibres into the air. Inhaling these fibres can lead to serious health issues such as lung cancer, mesothelioma (a cancer of the lining of the lung), and asbestosis (a chronic lung disease). These conditions often develop decades after exposure, making early detection and management crucial. The insidious nature of asbestos means that even buildings that seem in good condition can pose risks if the asbestos is not managed properly.

The Importance of Asbestos Surveys in Northern Ireland

Asbestos management is not just recommended; it’s a legal requirement under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 for those managing non-domestic premises. Here’s why asbestos surveys are vital in Northern Ireland:

• Legal Compliance: If you manage a building constructed before 2000, you are legally obligated to manage asbestos risks. This includes having an asbestos survey conducted to identify, assess, and manage ACMs. Not doing so can lead to legal repercussions and health risks to occupants and workers.
• Health and Safety: An asbestos survey helps in creating a safe environment by identifying where asbestos is present, its condition, and whether it poses an immediate risk. For instance, a significant number of Housing Executive properties in Northern Ireland have been found to contain asbestos, highlighting the scale of the issue here.
• Preventive Action: By knowing where asbestos is located, you can plan maintenance or refurbishment works safely. Surveys enable you to manage asbestos in its undisturbed state or decide on its removal if it’s damaged or likely to be disturbed, thereby preventing fibre release.
• Types of Surveys: There are two main types of asbestos surveys:
  • Management Survey: This is less invasive and focuses on identifying asbestos in areas likely to be disturbed during normal occupancy and maintenance. It’s crucial for ongoing management of asbestos in a building.
  • Refurbishment/Demolition Survey: More invasive, this survey is conducted before any major renovation or demolition work to locate all ACMs, including those hidden within the building structure.
• Local Context: In Northern Ireland, the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) provides guidance on managing asbestos. Surveys are not just about compliance but also about protecting the community from a silent danger lurking in many buildings.

Steps After an Asbestos Survey

Once an asbestos survey has been completed, the findings should be used to:

• Create an Asbestos Register: Document every instance of ACMs, detailing location, condition, and risk.
• Develop an Asbestos Management Plan: Outline how to manage or remove asbestos, including regular checks and updates to the register.
• Educate and Train: Ensure that anyone working on or in the premises knows about asbestos risks and how to avoid exposure.

Asbestos Management

The legacy of asbestos in Northern Ireland’s buildings underscores the necessity of diligent management. Asbestos surveys are not merely a formality; they are a fundamental step towards safeguarding public health by identifying and controlling this hazardous material. By staying informed and proactive, property owners, managers, and workers can contribute to making Northern Ireland a safer place to live and work.
Remember, if you’re unsure whether your property might contain asbestos or need professional advice, consult with accredited asbestos surveying organisations available in Northern Ireland.
Note: Always engage a qualified professional for asbestos-related work, as improper handling can be extremely dangerous.