Asbestos Testing & Removal

If your property was built or renovated before 2000, there's a significant possibility it contains asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Common locations include roof sheeting, pipe insulation, wall panels, floor tiles, textured coatings like Artex, and thermal insulation. However, asbestos cannot be reliably identified by visual inspection alone, as it was incorporated into many building materials that appear identical to non-asbestos alternatives. The only definitive way to determine if asbestos is present is through professional testing. Swift offers comprehensive property surveys where our trained technicians identify potential ACMs and collect samples for laboratory analysis. These samples are examined under powerful microscopes by certified analysts who can positively identify asbestos fibers and determine the specific type present.

Property owners have specific legal obligations under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. For non-domestic properties, the "duty holder" (typically the building owner or person responsible for maintenance) must take reasonable steps to identify asbestos-containing materials, document their location and condition, assess exposure risks, create and implement a management plan, and provide information to anyone who might disturb these materials. For residential properties, while homeowners aren't subject to the same regulatory requirements for surveys, they become responsible for proper asbestos management during renovations or demolition work. Both domestic and commercial property owners must ensure that any work involving asbestos is carried out by appropriately trained individuals according to regulatory standards. Swift can guide you through these obligations and provide the necessary services to ensure compliance.

Different types of asbestos and asbestos-containing materials present varying levels of risk, though all types are classified as carcinogenic. The three main asbestos types found in UK buildings are chrysotile (white asbestos), amosite (brown asbestos), and crocidolite (blue asbestos). Amphibole asbestos (including amosite and crocidolite) is generally considered more hazardous than chrysotile due to its needle-like fibers that can remain in the lungs longer. The risk level is also determined by the material's condition and friability—how easily it crumbles and releases fibers. For example, undisturbed asbestos cement presents a lower immediate risk than damaged friable insulation. Additionally, the material's location and the likelihood of disturbance affect risk assessment. Swift conducts thorough risk evaluations considering these factors to develop appropriate management strategies tailored to your specific situation.

Swift's asbestos testing process follows a rigorous protocol to ensure accuracy and safety. Initially, our certified technicians conduct a thorough inspection to identify potential asbestos-containing materials based on age, appearance, and location. For suspected materials, small samples (typically 1-2 square inches) are carefully collected using specialized techniques that minimize fiber release, including dampening the material and using controlled extraction methods. Each sample is securely sealed in labeled containers and transported to an accredited laboratory. At the laboratory, analysts use polarized light microscopy and other specialized techniques to identify asbestos fiber presence, type, and concentration. Test results are typically available within 48 hours, after which we provide a comprehensive report detailing findings and recommended actions. For occupied buildings, we conduct testing with minimal disruption, often scheduling sampling during off-hours.

Swift implements comprehensive safety protocols during all asbestos removal operations. Before work begins, we establish clearly demarcated exclusion zones with appropriate warning signage to prevent unauthorized entry. The work area is isolated using specialized containment systems including negative pressure units that prevent fiber migration to adjacent areas. Our technicians wear comprehensive personal protective equipment including disposable coveralls with hoods, specialized respirators with appropriate filters, gloves, and footwear without laces that could trap fibers. We use controlled wet methods to minimize fiber release during removal. All asbestos waste is double-bagged in heavy-gauge (500μm) polyethylene bags, sealed, labeled, and transported in secure compartments by licensed waste carriers to authorized disposal facilities. Following removal, thorough decontamination procedures are implemented, and clearance testing is conducted to verify that the area is safe for reoccupation.

No, not all identified asbestos requires immediate removal. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidance indicates that asbestos-containing materials in good condition and unlikely to be disturbed can often be safely managed in place. After identifying asbestos, Swift conducts a thorough risk assessment considering factors such as the material's condition, fiber release potential, likelihood of disturbance, and proximity to building occupants. Based on this assessment, we may recommend several management approaches: leaving intact and undisturbed materials in place with regular monitoring; encapsulation with specialized sealants to prevent fiber release; enclosure behind permanent barriers; or removal when materials are damaged, deteriorating, or likely to be disturbed by renovation work. Each situation receives a customized recommendation balancing safety, regulatory compliance, and practical considerations. For materials managed in place, we help develop monitoring programs to track condition changes over time.