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
Warehouses and storage facilities built in the mid-20th century frequently feature corrugated asbestos-cement roofing, wall cladding panels, and insulation board lining. Weathering, UV exposure, and the constant vibration from loading operations cause these materials to become brittle, cracked, and friable over time.
Forklift traffic, overhead crane movements, and impact from stored goods can damage deteriorating asbestos panels, releasing fibres into large open-plan spaces where natural ventilation carries them across the entire facility. Warehouse operators must ensure that degraded roofing and cladding are assessed and managed before fibre release compromises air quality for staff.
What You Need
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Is it okay to scrape moss off an asbestos roof?
No, scraping or pressure-washing an asbestos cement roof releases fibres and accelerates deterioration. Use a specialist biocide treatment applied gently, or consult a licensed contractor about safe cleaning methods.
Can I remove chrysotile asbestos myself?
In the UK, householders can legally remove small quantities of certain chrysotile products (cement sheets, floor tiles) from their own domestic property. Strict precautions must be followed, and the waste must be taken to a licensed disposal site.
Is there a government grant available in the UK for asbestos roof replacement?
Some UK local authorities and devolved governments offer grants or assistance for asbestos roof replacement, particularly for agricultural buildings. Check the Rural Payments Agency, DEFRA schemes, or your local council for current funding availability.
Is a little bit of asbestos exposure ok?
There is no officially recognised safe level of asbestos exposure. While the risk from a single brief exposure is very low, UK regulations under CAR 2012 require that all exposure be kept as low as reasonably practicable.
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