Damaged or ageing materials? They may be releasing asbestos fibres.
Asbestos-containing materials that are intact and undisturbed generally pose low risk. But when they deteriorate, through age, weathering, water damage, or physical impact, they can release microscopic fibres into the air.
Signs of deterioration include crumbling or flaking surfaces, visible damage to corrugated roofing, cracked floor tiles, or peeling pipe insulation. If you see any of these in a building constructed before 2000, an assessment is needed urgently.
A professional condition assessment will determine whether the material needs immediate removal, encapsulation, or can be safely managed in place with monitoring.
The Problem
Industrial facilities commonly contain asbestos in thermal insulation around boilers, pipework lagging, gaskets, and corrugated cement roofing sheets. Prolonged exposure to heat cycles, chemical vapours, and mechanical vibration causes these materials to crack, delaminate, and release friable asbestos fibres into the workplace.
Deteriorated asbestos in industrial settings poses an acute risk because high-temperature processes and forced ventilation systems can disperse fibres across large production areas. Workers may face cumulative exposure over shifts without visible warning signs, making periodic condition assessments and air monitoring essential.
What You Need
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to asbestos factory workers?
Many former asbestos factory workers developed serious diseases including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. In the UK, thousands of compensation claims have been filed, and the legacy of industrial asbestos use continues to affect workers exposed before the 2000 ban.
Did they make blown-in asbestos insulation?
Yes, loose-fill asbestos insulation was blown into cavity walls and loft spaces, primarily using crocidolite or amosite. This is one of the highest-risk forms of asbestos and requires specialist licensed removal.
How can you tell if asbestos materials are deteriorating?
Signs of deterioration include surface cracking, flaking, crumbling edges, water damage staining, visible fibre release, delamination, and physical damage from impacts. A qualified inspector can assess the condition using standardized scoring systems that evaluate surface damage, water exposure, and accessibility.
What should I do if I find damaged asbestos material in my building?
Do not touch, sweep, or vacuum the material. Restrict access to the area, close doors to prevent draughts spreading fibres, and contact a licensed asbestos professional for assessment. If the damage is limited and the material is non-friable (e.g., asbestos cement), the risk may be manageable. A qualified inspector will assess the condition and recommend either encapsulation, enclosure, or removal.
Does asbestos deteriorate over time?
Yes, asbestos-containing materials deteriorate with age, weathering, and physical damage, releasing fibres into the air. Regular condition assessments are essential to identify deterioration before it becomes a health risk.
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