Clear the air with correct asbestos disposal

Asbestos refers to a group of minerals that have a fibrous, needle-like structure. Asbestos is heat, chemical, and water resistant and has been used to strengthen materials since the Stone Age. These properties are what made asbestos a widespread construction material. In the 19th and 20th centuries, millions of tonnes of asbestos were imported into and used in the UK.

As we now know, asbestos is really nasty stuff. It is illegal to use or trade any materials containing asbestos after it was finally banned in 1999. This is because asbestos exposure is known to cause a wide variety of illnesses. Asbestos related diseases include cancers such as Mesothelioma and lung scarring known as Asbestosis. It could also contribute towards skin damage and increased bodily inflammation.

An estimated 5,000 people die every year in the UK of asbestos related illnesses. This highlights that the widespread historical usage of asbestos is a continued problem even today. It is important to remain vigilant when dealing with materials that may have been produced before the 21st century. 

Due to its strength and lack of degradation, asbestos was used in a wide array of items and building materials. Some of the many places one might find asbestos include:

• certain types of insulation
• roof felt, tiles, slates, and shingles
• toilet cisterns
• old ironing boards
• asbestos reinforced cement

As hazardous waste, asbestos must not be disposed of via kerbside collection or taken to a recycling centre. The presence of asbestos at a recycling centre is a serious health and safety hazard. It also causes operational disruption and is highly expensive to clean up. 

If you have asbestos in your household, stay safe and make sure to follow the recommended health and safety precautions. Essex residents can submit a request for a collection of asbestos. This is a collection that is subsidised for each household each financial year. Please ensure that you have the complete dimensions and weight of your asbestos items in metres and kilograms. These measurements, as well as double wrapping your asbestos in heavy duty plastic are required to successfully complete a collection.

Find further guidance on dealing with hazardous waste, or book a collection of household asbestos.