As licensed waste carriers, we ensure that all non-licensed asbestos waste is removed safely and securely, transported to a licensed waste transfer station, and handled with the utmost care. Whether you're dealing with asbestos in a domestic setting or on a larger commercial site, our fully trained team can manage the process from start to finish, adhering to all relevant regulations.
Our team is CAT B trained and undergoes comprehensive training in asbestos site work and removal techniques. In addition, our staff members receive regular medicals and face fits to ensure safety and compliance. We are also fully insured, giving you complete peace of mind when working with SCH Environmental Surveys Ltd.
We operate in full compliance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and follow the HSE Approved Codes of Practice (ACoP) L143. Our dedicated policies and procedures ensure consistent, high-quality service for every project, whether large or small.
Asbestos cement is a mixture of cement and asbestos fibres, commonly found in roofing sheets, pipes, and gutters. While asbestos cement is generally considered to be lower risk due to its durability and the fact that it releases fewer fibres, it can still pose a danger if it is cut, broken, or deteriorating. Proper removal techniques must be followed to prevent the release of asbestos fibres into the air.
Many older buildings contain vinyl floor tiles that were manufactured with asbestos. Over time, these tiles can become worn or damaged, potentially releasing asbestos fibres. Removal of these materials must be handled with care to minimise exposure, even if it does not require a licensed contractor.
Also known as “Artex,” textured decorative coatings were commonly used in ceilings and walls in homes and commercial buildings before the dangers of asbestos were well-known. These materials can contain asbestos fibres, and while they may remain intact and pose minimal risk in good condition, any work involving the removal, repair, or refurbishment of these coatings should be done by professionals.
In some cases, the best course of action is not to remove asbestos materials, but rather to encapsulate them. Encapsulation involves applying a protective coating or sealant to asbestos-containing materials that are in good condition. This prevents asbestos fibres from becoming airborne while allowing the materials to remain safely in place. This method is often used for non-licensed asbestos removal where full removal is not necessary, but control measures are needed to prevent exposure.
Some asbestos removal projects may not require a licence but still need to be notified to local authorities. These notifiable non-licensed projects typically involve larger areas or asbestos cement that is in poor condition. In such cases, specific control measures must be in place to ensure safety.
If a project involves the removal of a significant amount of asbestos cement, which is commonly found in roofing sheets, pipes, and cladding, it must be reported to the relevant local authorities. Asbestos cement in large quantities poses a higher risk due to the potential release of asbestos fibres, particularly during handling, cutting, or demolition.
Projects where asbestos-containing materials have become damaged or deteriorated over time are more likely to release asbestos fibres into the environment. Even when these materials fall under the non-licensed category, they require notification because the risk of exposure increases as the condition of the materials worsens. Proper procedures must be followed to remove or encapsulate the asbestos, ensuring the safety of both workers and the public.
In both cases, SCH Environmental Surveys Ltd ensures that appropriate control measures are in place, such as dust suppression techniques, the use of protective equipment, and the containment of work areas. These measures significantly reduce the risk of exposure to asbestos fibres and help prevent contamination.
Asbestos Cement: Often found in roofing, walls, and pipes.
Asbestos Floor Coverings: Vinyl floor tiles and coverings.
Asbestos Floor Tiles: Common in older homes and commercial buildings.
Asbestos Bitumen: Frequently used in waterproofing applications.
Asbestos Textiles: Includes older fireproofing materials.
Asbestos Garage Roofs: Frequently constructed from asbestos cement.
Asbestos Corrugated Sheeting: Used in agricultural and industrial buildings.
Asbestos Roof Felt: Typically found in roofing applications.
Asbestos Textured Coatings: Including Artex and similar materials.
At SCH Environmental Surveys Ltd, we strictly adhere to the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. Whether your project is notifiable or non-licensed, we follow all the necessary guidelines to ensure compliance with health and safety standards. Our team is trained to assess each situation, ensuring that the appropriate level of care and attention is applied, particularly in cases where the asbestos materials are damaged or covering large areas.
If you are unsure about the requirements for asbestos removal, our team is here to help. Contact us for free, impartial advice on how to safely manage asbestos in your property.
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that were commonly used in construction materials for insulation, roofing, flooring, and fireproofing. It poses a serious health risk when asbestos fibres are released into the air and inhaled, potentially leading to conditions like lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. Safe removal is necessary to prevent exposure, especially if the asbestos-containing materials are damaged or deteriorating.
If your building was constructed before the year 2000, there’s a chance it may contain asbestos. The only way to confirm the presence of asbestos is to have an asbestos survey conducted by qualified professionals. SCH Environmental Surveys Ltd offers comprehensive asbestos surveys to identify any asbestos-containing materials and provide guidance on the next steps.
Licensed asbestos removal is required for high-risk asbestos materials, such as loose asbestos insulation. Non-licensed asbestos removal covers lower-risk materials like asbestos cement, floor tiles, and certain coatings. While a licence is not needed for non-licensed removal, the work must still be done by trained professionals following strict safety protocols.
Even if the work falls under non-licensed removal, certain projects may still need to be notified to local authorities. This is required when the asbestos materials are in poor condition or when large areas of asbestos are being removed. SCH Environmental Surveys Ltd can advise on whether your project needs to be reported and ensure that all proper procedures are followed.
At SCH Environmental Surveys Ltd, we follow strict safety guidelines, including dust suppression, containment of the work area, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and safe disposal of asbestos waste. We comply with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 to ensure that asbestos removal is carried out without risk to workers or building occupants.