Asbestos
Information and collection
What is it?
Asbestos is a hazardous material which may be present in various parts of any residential or commercial building, having been used extensively during the 1950's for things like pipe lagging, wall and loft insulation, fire blankets and on bath panels.
Long-term exposure to loosened asbestos fibres can lead to serious medical problems including conditions mesothelioma and asbestosis. Therefore, care must be taken to avoid inhalation of asbestos fibres and to manage it appropriately.
What it looks like
See the HSE image gallery to see some forms of asbestos
Asbestos in the home
For information on asbestos, common places it can be found in the home and what to do if you think you may have it, visit Directgov
Asbestos at work
For information on what to do if you have suspected asbestos on your premises, go to Health and Safety pages, which will direct you to where you can find guidance and legislation relating to asbestos management.
Asbestos removal
For arranging a collection of your household asbestos, visit the City of London website, where you can email DES-Enquiries@cityoflondon.gov.uk, call 020 7332 3433 or 020 7332 3630 for specialist advice.
Alternatively for commercial waste, the Asbestos Removal Contractors Association is a useful aid for finding a licensed contractor.
