Asbestos in soils has been a persistent issue across the UK, particularly on brownfield sites, with the potential for significant health and financial risks. The type and extent of contamination can vary, influencing both the risk level and the required management strategies. Understanding and addressing these risks is crucial for maintaining safety and compliance.
Asbestos contamination in soils typically arises from several sources:
Demolition Waste: Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) from past demolition activities may have been used as backfill, made ground, or sub-base in new constructions.
Imported Materials: Crushed materials not screened for asbestos at the crushing facility can introduce asbestos into new sites.
Illegal Dumping: Asbestos can contaminate clean areas through illegal dumping on both brownfield and greenfield sites.
Historical Industrial Activities: Sites previously used for asbestos production or processing may exhibit ground contamination.
Post-Fire Debris: Asbestos can be interspersed with burnt materials from major fires.
Asbestos presents a low risk to human health when undisturbed in the soil. However, risks increase significantly when the asbestos is disturbed through site work, investigation, or even regular traffic over contaminated areas. The degree of risk correlates with the friability of the asbestos material and the extent of disturbance. High-risk asbestos materials include loose-fill insulation, asbestos lagging, insulation products, and asbestos insulating board (AIB). Lower-risk materials, such as asbestos cement, textured coatings, and thermoplastics (e.g., floor tiles, bitumen), may also be present.
Asbestos fibres are often not visible to the naked eye due to their breakdown into fine fragments during previous demolition and crushing processes. Laboratory testing is essential for detecting these fibres and assessing potential exposure risks.
Handling asbestos in soils involves strict legal responsibilities to ensure safety and compliance. This includes protecting site personnel, contractors, visitors, and the general public from asbestos-related hazards. Adhering to regulations is crucial to avoid legal and financial repercussions.
SCH Environmental Surveys Ltd offers expert solutions for managing asbestos in soils, from initial inspection to final site sign-off. Our services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each site, whether it's a small residential area or a large industrial complex.
Our Key Services Include:
Asbestos Testing and Investigation:
We conduct comprehensive asbestos tests and analyses through accredited laboratories.
Our investigations provide detailed information on the types, locations, and densities of asbestos.
We offer recommendations for remediation or removal and handle Hazardous Waste Disposal and WAC testing.
Risk Assessment:
Our team performs thorough risk assessments using field-based testing organised monitoring using an Independent UKS Accredited laboratory.
The analyst evaluates fibre levels and confirm control limits to ensure site safety and regulatory compliance.
Work Methodology and Supervision:
We develop and implement safe working methodologies, including controls, testing, and training.
Our team provides site supervision to ensure compliance and safety during asbestos-related operations.
Full Remediation:
We offer complete site remediation services, from planning through execution for non-licenced material only.
Site Validation:
Post-remediation, we conduct site validation to verify that all work meets standards and specifications.
Our comprehensive report ensures compliance and is often required by planning departments or for property transactions.
We strive to deliver cost-effective, reliable solutions for managing asbestos in soils, ensuring your project remains safe, compliant, and within budget.
For expert advice and support on asbestos in soils, contact SCH Environmental Surveys. Let us help you navigate the complexities of asbestos management and ensure a safe and compliant site.