Chrysotile (white asbestos) is the most commonly used form of asbestos and it can be found in the roofs, ceilings, walls and floors of many properties, particularly public sector buildings such as schools and Council offices.

As a hazardous substance it was widely used in the UK construction industry for many decades, chrysotile is something we come across several times a year, particularly when working in public buildings built in 1930s and 40s.

Explains Tim Vaughan, director at A Cumberlidge: “If left undisturbed and encapsulated, chrysotile should not cause any concern. However, if damaged or disturbed the inhalation of one fibre can lead to serious health problems.

“Dealing with the non-notifiable uplift and safe disposal of chrysotile is a service we have offered for many years. All of our site teams have undergone extensive training with the UK Asbestos Training Association (UKATA) and have the skillsets to safely remove many floor coverings – usually old vinyl floor tiles – that contain asbestos.”

Chrysotile removal expertly done by A Cumberlidge

The expert team from A Cumberlidge delivering the safe removal of Chrysotile

Continues Tim: “Before a site team prepare the removal process, we complete a thorough inspection of the site with a full risk assessment. The full disposable suit and associated PPE are in place to protect personnel.

“The team strip -out the chrysotile floor finish, double bagging it and setting to one side for collection. The sacks are clearly marked for clarity before transportation and safe disposal.”

Adds Tim: “In March we removed 250mof chrysotile – 103 sacks in total – for the D L Company at Liberty Speciality Steels in Rotherham.”

Chrysotile removal expertly done by A Cumberlidge

The double-bagged sacks of Chrysotile ready for collection & transportation

Commenting on that project, Alan Smith, project manager at the D L Company: “We always expect skilled, qualified and experienced fitters to deliver a managed and quality install and this project was an excellent example of how projects should be completed – with care, attention, planning and executed in a very professional manner. In fact, spotless.

“Credit deserved to both the fitters and the office support. It allows us all confidence going forward and sets a very high standard as to how other trades should perform. Much appreciated.”