Our Asbestos Removal Process
Every asbestos removal project follows a structured, safety-first approach to protect occupants, workers, and the environment.
Initial Survey & Assessment
Before any removal work begins, we conduct a thorough asbestos survey to identify all asbestos-containing materials, assess their condition, and determine the appropriate removal method. A detailed risk assessment is prepared, and if required, samples are sent to a UKAS-accredited laboratory for confirmatory testing. This ensures we know exactly what we're dealing with and can plan the safest removal strategy.
HSE Notification & Planning
For licensed work, we notify the HSE at least 14 days before starting, providing full details of the project, asbestos types, removal methods, and safety measures. For non-licensed work, we submit NNLW notifications as required. We prepare a detailed Plan of Work setting out removal methods, containment measures, PPE requirements, decontamination procedures, waste handling, and emergency protocols. All staff are briefed before work commences.
Site Setup & Containment
The work area is sealed off using polyethylene sheeting to create a secure enclosure. For high-risk work, we install negative pressure units (NPUs) with HEPA filtration to maintain airflow into the enclosure, preventing fiber escape. Warning signs are posted, and a three-stage decontamination unit is set up for safe entry and exit. All furniture and equipment is either removed or wrapped and sealed. The site is prepared to strict HSE standards before any asbestos is disturbed.
Controlled Removal
Our trained operatives remove asbestos materials using approved methods for each material type. All work is carried out wet to suppress fiber release. Materials are carefully removed to avoid breakage, lowered gently (not dropped), and immediately placed into asbestos waste bags. High-risk materials are removed under strict supervision with continuous air monitoring. Operatives wear suitable respiratory protective equipment (RPE), disposable coveralls, and follow strict decontamination procedures when leaving the enclosure.
Decontamination & Air Testing
After removal, the entire work area is thoroughly cleaned using HEPA-filtered vacuum equipment and damp wiping. All surfaces within the enclosure are vacuumed and wiped multiple times to remove any residual fibers. For licensed work, an independent UKAS-accredited analyst conducts four-stage clearance air testing, collecting air samples to verify fiber levels are below the clearance indicator of 0.01 fibers/ml. The enclosure isn't dismantled until we receive a satisfactory clearance certificate.
Safe Disposal & Documentation
All asbestos waste is double-bagged in red UN-approved asbestos waste bags, sealed, labeled, and transported to a licensed asbestos disposal facility in a sealed vehicle. We provide full waste documentation including consignment notes tracking the waste from collection to final disposal. You'll receive a complete project pack including the Plan of Work, air test certificates (if applicable), waste consignment notes, and a clearance certificate confirming safe removal and area handback.
UK Asbestos Regulations & Compliance
Asbestos removal in the UK is strictly regulated to protect public health and the environment. We comply with all relevant legislation and HSE guidance.
Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012
The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012) is the primary UK legislation governing asbestos work. It requires duty holders to manage asbestos in non-domestic premises, mandates asbestos surveys before refurbishment or demolition, sets strict controls for asbestos removal work, and requires licensing for high-risk removal. We ensure full compliance with CAR 2012, including Regulation 3 (duty to manage), Regulation 5 (identification of asbestos), Regulation 7 (assessment and notification), and Regulations 11-16 covering licensed work requirements.
HSE Licensing & Notification
Work with asbestos insulation, asbestos coating, or asbestos insulating board (excluding certain minor works exemptions) requires an HSE license. Tyne Asbestos Removal Ltd holds full HSE licensing, renewed every three years following rigorous assessment of our procedures, training, equipment, and past performance. All licensed work is notified to the HSE at least 14 days in advance using ASB5 forms. Only licensed contractors with trained, medically surveilled operatives can legally undertake high-risk asbestos removal in the UK.
UKAS Laboratory Analysis
When asbestos samples are taken for identification or bulk analysis, they must be analyzed by a UKAS-accredited laboratory to ISO 17025 standards. After removal work, four-stage clearance air testing must be conducted by an independent UKAS-accredited analyst (Regulation 20, CAR 2012). We work with UKAS-accredited laboratories and analysts throughout the North East to ensure all testing meets the required standards. Air test results must show fiber concentrations below 0.01 fibers per milliliter to achieve clearance certification.
Hazardous Waste Regulations
Asbestos waste is classified as hazardous waste and must be disposed of at licensed hazardous waste sites under the Hazardous Waste Regulations 2005 (as amended). All asbestos waste must be double-packaged in UN-approved packaging, labeled with hazardous waste codes (17 06 05* for ACMs), transported using authorized carriers, and tracked using consignment notes. We hold waste carriers' licenses and use only EA-permitted disposal facilities. Every client receives full consignment note documentation proving legal disposal.
Health & Safety at Work Act 1974
Under the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974, employers have a duty to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of employees and others who may be affected by their work. For asbestos removal, this means providing adequate training, suitable PPE and RPE, health surveillance (medical monitoring), exposure monitoring, safe systems of work, and emergency procedures. Our operatives undergo regular UKATA-accredited asbestos awareness and removal training, annual medical surveillance including lung function tests, and fit testing for respiratory equipment.
Environmental Permitting & Protection
The Environmental Permitting Regulations 2016 control the disposal of asbestos waste at landfill sites. Only facilities holding an environmental permit from the Environment Agency can accept asbestos waste. Asbestos must be deposited in dedicated hazardous waste cells designed to contain asbestos fibers. Fly-tipping asbestos or disposing of it with general waste is illegal and carries unlimited fines and imprisonment. We ensure all disposal is fully compliant and traceable, protecting you from liability.
