Asbestos
This page provides information on asbestos removal for domestic and business purposes.
For business asbestos removal, please scroll down to the commercial asbestos removal information.
Residents concerned about asbestos in their homes should read the information provided by the Directgov Website - Home and Community page on Asbestos Removal which gives information on asbestos and its common uses. DO NOT INHALE ASBESTOS DUST
It may be dangerous to disturb loose fibrous forms of asbestos and it is always best to seek professional advice on its removal. You should ask to see the contractor's current asbestos handlers licence before the company starts work for you, and a written quotation should be provided.
Professional asbestos removal through ARCA
For large amounts of asbestos-cement containing materials, or for the removal and disposal of other types of asbestos from commercial premises, we advise that you use an Asbestos Removal Contractors Association (ARCA) approved contractor. ARCA keeps a list of members whose competence in the sampling and removal of asbestos has been tested.
Asbestos removal and disposal by the City of London Corporation
The City of London provides a service for the removal of small amounts of asbestos from your domestic property. Further information regarding this service may be obtained from the City of London, Household Hazardous Waste Collection and Disposal Service (HWCDS). The HWCDS will ask you to complete an information form and will endeavour to collect within 12 working days.
Asbestos disposal at Hornsey Street Re-Use and Recycling Centre
Cement asbestos from households may be deposited at the Hornsey Street Re-use and Recycling Centre by Appointment only.
Commercial asbestos removal information
As an employer or the owner of a business you are required to meet your obligations under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
Under the Asbestos Regulations, anyone carrying out work on asbestos insulation, asbestos coating or asbestos insulating board (AIB) needs a licence issued by Health and Safety Executive unless they meet one of the exemptions. Although you may not need a licence to carry out a particular job, you still need to comply with the rest of the requirements of the Asbestos Regulations.
If the work is licensable you have a number of additional duties. You need to:
• notify the enforcing authority responsible for the site where you are working (for example Health and Safety Executive or the local authority – London Borough of Barnet)
• designate the work area
• prepare specific asbestos emergency procedures, and
• pay for your employees to undergo medical surveillance.
