DIY and asbestos awareness
When embarking on a DIY project in an older property, being aware of asbestos is crucial. Asbestos, once used for its durability and fire-resistant properties poses significant health risks when disturbed. This article provides homeowners with tips for safely undertaking DIY projects in homes that may contain asbestos. Additionally, the Health & Safety Executive offers valuable information on asbestos and the GOV.UK website details how to dispose of asbestos through your local council.
Assessing the age of your home
The first step in any DIY project should be to consider the age of your home. Asbestos was commonly used in construction until the year 2000. You may have bought a home that was built after the year 2000, but you may still need to be cautious with renovations if the property consists of older sections that were built before the year 2000, as these sections could still contain asbestos containing materials (ACMs), even if the newer parts of the home do not. If you suspect the presence of asbestos, it’s wise to have the material tested by a professional before doing any DIY that affects the structure of your property. If asbestos is present, disturbing it can release harmful fibres into the air.
Reviewing previous surveys
Before purchasing your property you are likely to conduct a survey. This survey may indicate the presence of asbestos, including its potential location(s). Remember asbestos is only hazardous when disturbed, so it’s crucial to treat any material suspected of containing asbestos as if it does.
Types of DIY tasks
Certain DIY tasks are more likely to disturb asbestos containing materials. For example, tasks involving drilling, cutting or disturbing old insulation, floor tiles, ceiling tiles, roofing and siding are at higher risk.
Investing in safety gear
The inhalation of asbestos fibres is a significant health risk, therefore, proper safety gear is crucial. You should invest in the correct masks, gloves, boots and overalls from a DIY or building supplier. After use, treat these items as contaminated waste, sealing them in plastic bags for safe disposal.
When to call an expert
DIY can be rewarding, but it’s important to recognise your limits, especially when dealing with hazardous materials. If you encounter asbestos, particularly high-risk types like loose fill or spray asbestos, stop immediately and consult a professional. Expert asbestos removal can be costly but it ensures the safety of you and your family.
To conclude, in DIY home projects, safety should always be a priority. Asbestos, while not a concern in newer homes, remains a significant risk in older properties. You can still do DIY, but you just need to be asbestos aware, this includes knowing the age of your home and if there is a risk of asbestos, reviewing past surveys to see if there is evidence of asbestos, educating yourself through asbestos awareness courses, using proper safety equipment and knowing when to call in professionals to tackle DIY projects where contact with asbestos may be likely. Remember, the health and safety of your household is important and being informed and prepared is the best way to ensure a successful and safe DIY experience.
Interested in our asbestos awareness safety training?
For extended DIY projects, especially if your property predates the 1980s, consider taking our online Asbestos Awareness Course (Category A). This course provides knowledge about identifying and safely handling asbestos, as well as providing you with information on how to recognise asbestos containing materials, learning about the health risks associated with asbestos and how to minimise the risk of asbestos exposure.
Contact our friendly customer support team who are always ready to discuss your asbestos training options.