Asbestos in Concrete: What You Need to Know

For the better part of a century, asbestos could be found in a huge range of products across a vast selection of industries, from construction materials to household items. One of the most common uses was in the production of asbestos cement. Asbestos-laced cement was so widely used for so long that homes, farm buildings, commercial premises, industrial facilities and more across the UK still feature it.

But how do you know if your property contains asbestos cement and what can you do about it? In this guide, we are going to answer these questions as well as look at why there is asbestos in concrete, where it was used, how dangerous it is and the removal process.

If your property contains asbestos cement, we strongly advise you not to interfere with it. Contact our expert team of asbestos surveyors to assess its condition and risk level – call us now on 0800 358 1100. - CAN WE BE USING OUR 0800 NUMBER OR WORCESTER NUMBER TOO RATHER THAN JUST HEREFORD?

Why Was Asbestos Used in Concrete?

The decision to include asbestos in concrete mixtures was made in the early 20^th century, and it continued to be widely used in the UK up until the 1980s when its use began to decline prior to its eventual ban in 1999.

Asbestos was chosen because it added strength, moisture resistance and insulation as well as its ability to withstand high temperatures, in addition to being highly cost effective to source.

Which Types of Asbestos Were Used in Asbestos Cement Production?

Typically, chrysotile (white) asbestos was used in concrete production. However, both crocidolite (blue) and amosite (brown) asbestos were also used on occasion. You can usually identify which type of asbestos was used in a piece of cement by examining it for coloured flecks of material – always wear protective equipment when approaching asbestos concrete and avoid disturbing it.

For more information on identifying asbestos, read our blog post: ‘What Does Asbestos Look Like?’

What is the Typical Asbestos Content of Asbestos Cement Sheets?

It can be difficult to know how much asbestos cement sheets normally contain. How much asbestos is in each sheet can vary, but it is typically in the range of 10% to 15%. Although this is a relatively low concentration, it is still enough to make the material hazardous.

Where is Asbestos Found in Concrete?

Thanks to its versatility and affordability, asbestos concrete was used for a vast array of construction purposes. It was commonly used in:‍

✓ Garages
✓ Farm buildings
✓ Gutters
✓ Roofing
✓ Storage tanks
✓ Walls
✓ Ceilings
✓ Piping
✓ Cladding
✓ Coal stores
✓ Flash guards
✓ Junction boxes
✓ Flower boxes

Is Asbestos in Concrete Dangerous?

Usually, asbestos in concrete is not especially dangerous, as the fibres are sealed within the structure of the material. However, if the concrete is damaged or begins to degrade as it ages, fibres can be released, making it dangerous to building occupants and the wider public.

Given that asbestos cement products have not been used for a minimum of 25 years in the UK, with many being much older, the asbestos concrete at your property could be decaying, so caution is always strongly advised.‍

Asbestos exposure is linked to the development of long-term, life-threatening conditions including mesothelioma and asbestosis.

How to Identify Asbestos in Concrete

Asbestos in concrete can be hard to identify, as the sheets appear very similar to non-asbestos concrete. Sometimes, it is possible to see flecks of asbestos within the sheets, but this is not a reliable means of identification.‍

The best indicator of how likely your concrete is to contain asbestos is its age. Asbestos was commonly used in concrete in the UK from the early 1900s until it was banned in 1999, meaning that any concrete products manufactured before 1999 may contain asbestos and should be treated with caution.

The best way to know for certain whether the concrete at your property contains asbestos is to contact a professional asbestos surveyor. They can thoroughly assess the materials at your site and collect samples for laboratory testing. Depending on your plans, you will require either an asbestos management survey, an asbestos demolition survey or an asbestos refurbishment survey.

Legal and Safety Requirements

Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations (CAR) 2012, duty holders at commercial, retail and industrial premises, as well as some rented domestic properties, must ensure the safe management of any Asbestos Containing Materials (ACMs) at their properties.

This means that if you own, operate or manage any of the above premises, you will need to have your property regularly surveyed by a trained, accredited asbestos surveyor to ensure that any ACMs are identified and monitored for safety. You will also need separate surveys conducted prior to any refurbishment or demolition works. Learn more about when asbestos surveys are required in our blog post: ‘When is an asbestos survey needed?’.

There are no requirements for homeowners to survey their homes for asbestos concrete, but not monitoring the condition of asbestos products throughout your property can put you and others at risk of exposure. If you are having tradespeople work on your home, you will require a survey for asbestos.

What to do if Your Concrete Contains Asbestos

If you suspect that your property contains asbestos cement, you should contact an asbestos surveyor. Through expert analysis and laboratory testing, they can determine accurately whether asbestos is present as well as provide practical next steps for its management or removal.

Because of the health risks associated with asbestos, we strongly advise against attempting to assess or handle asbestos concrete yourself – always consult a professional.

How is Asbestos Cement Removed?

As asbestos in concrete can be hazardous, it requires a specialised removal process:

1. Risk Assessment – Our team will identify any potential hazards at your site and plan for how to mitigate them.
2. Set Up a Containment Area – To ensure that fibre release is minimised and contained, designated areas will be established to store the asbestos cement once it has been removed from your property.
3. Safe Removal and Transportation – Finally, we will arrange for the safe and legally compliant disposal of your asbestos concrete.

Safely Manage Asbestos in Concrete with EMS

EMS is an expert, UKAS-accredited asbestos consultancy that has been conducting asbestos surveys in Worcester , Hereford, Cardiff & across the surrounding UK since 2003. We offer reliable, effective services and can help you maintain legal compliance and safety.

To arrange your asbestos survey, speak to our friendly team now on 0800 358 1100 number AGAIN WE COULD ALSO ADD/USE 0800 358 1100 NUMBER? email us at info@emsgroupuk.com or fill out our contact form here.

FAQs

What was asbestos cement used for?

Asbestos concrete was used for a huge range of applications, including:

✓ Walls and roofs
✓ Guttering and piping
✓ Decorative features
✓ And much more

How to tell if concrete has asbestos in it.

The safest and most reliable means of identifying asbestos in concrete is to book a professional asbestos survey. This will involve expert assessment and laboratory analysis, providing you with an accurate result without having to put yourself or others at risk by disturbing the asbestos.

Did they use asbestos in cement?

Yes, for almost 100 years asbestos was added to cement to increase strength, water resistance and thermal insulation. The use of asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999.

How to tell if mortar has asbestos.

As with concrete, the best way to determine whether the mortar at your property contains asbestos is to speak to an expert asbestos surveyor. They can safely assess the asbestos content and provide information about what to do if asbestos is present.