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Article: Asbestos

AsbestosBerneslai Homes acknowledges the health hazards arising from exposure to asbestos and is committed to protecting employees and others who are potentially exposed to asbestos as far as is reasonably practicable.

Berneslai Homes information hopefully addresses concerns and questions about asbestos in your home.  It explains what it is, where it is found, why it might be a problem and how to deal with it.

What is asbestos?
 
It is a naturally occurring mineral that has been used in a range of building materials. 

Why was it used?

Asbestos fibres are strong and resistant to heat and chemicals.  This led to their use in a wide range of building materials and products, often for fireproofing.

Who is exposed to asbestos?

There are very low levels of fibres in the air everywhere because asbestos has been used widely.  Exposure to this low level of fibres is unlikely to harm people’s health.

Where is asbestos found in the home?

Materials containing asbestos can be found in various locations in and around the home.   For further information visit the HSE website. 

Why is asbestos now a problem?

When asbestos materials age or become damaged they can release fibres into the air.  These can be breathed deep into the lung where they may stay for a long time, causing possible damage. 

What should I do if I suspect asbestos?

Asbestos left in good condition and untouched does not cause any problems, as it isn’t the material that causes the problem, it’s the dust generated from breaking or the breakdown of the material. If you have damaged or deteriorating asbestos materials in your home then seek advice from Berneslai Homes.  

Is there anything I should do to protect me and my family from asbestos?

To protect your own, your family’s or your visitors’ health, please follow this advice. Be sure that the materials you are working on or disturbing in and around your home do not contain asbestos.

Avoid having to scrape, sand, drill, knock holes in or take apart any materials that contain (or you think may contain) asbestos.

Under no circumstances should you deal with the asbestos yourself. If you have any doubts, get advice from your local area office.

If you think you may have products that contain asbestos in your home, get advice from your local area office before you take any action. Do not put asbestos waste in your wheelie bin – contact your local area office and we will tell you what you need to do.

Your Housing Management Officer will also be able to help identify if you have asbestos products in your home.

Visit the Housing Management Team page for details of how to contact your local team.   

What about decorating or DIY?

You may have asbestos materials in your home so take extra care when doing DIY. Do not try to work on any form of asbestos or material that you think may contain asbestos. If you are in doubt, get advice from your Impact Officer. Do not drill, cut or disturb asbestos. Do not scrape or sand asbestos materials before painting and decorating. You may need to cover over existing decorations rather than try to remove them.

Useful Leaflets

Alternatively call our Customer Services Team on (01226) 775555 and we will send you a leaflet. 

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