The construction industry once relied on asbestos for its heat resistance, insulation, and anti-corrosion properties, benefiting from its use before it was officially banned. Its fibrous structure poses serious health risks, which led to its prohibition.
Yet, asbestos remains in many older buildings, sites, and existing construction materials and fittings. As part of safety precautions, asbestos waste must be carefully removed, collected, and contained in what are called asbestos bags.
This guide explains more about asbestos and asbestos bags, and how they work on-site.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a natural mineral found in ultramafic and metamorphic rocks, where it gets its thermal stability, insulation, and rust-proof qualities. Over time, these rocks break down, releasing asbestos fibres into the soil and air.
Raw asbestos is mined from asbestos-rich deposits, processed into fibres, and added to building materials like lagging, pipework, and fireproof panels. However, it was banned in the UK for use in construction in 1999 to protect public health.
Unfortunately, asbestos waste persists in older buildings built before the ban, as well as in certain ground sites. That’s why construction workers must follow strict safety regulations to avoid contamination.
What Are Asbestos Bags?
Asbestos bags do exactly what their name implies: heavy-duty bags designed for safe removal and containment of asbestos waste. They’re often made from 350 gauge polythene, a durable, tear-resistant material.
The packaging comes with standard markings, including health and safety warnings, to comply with the current legislation. For reference, this asbestos bag is marked with “Asbestos Waste” and includes UN 2212 and UN 2590 labels. This means it’s approved for containing and transporting any type of asbestos waste under those classifications.
UN 2212 refers to asbestos, amphibole (amosite, crocidolite, tremolite, actinolite, and anthophyllite), and friable. UN 2590 applies to chrysotile (white asbestos), non-friable forms.
The Uses of Asbestos Bags in Construction
Asbestos bags are primarily used for asbestos disposal and are essential when:
- Working on old buildings or equipment that contain asbestos. For instance, removing asbestos-containing insulation from an attic before installing new materials. Another example is dismantling asbestos-lagged pipes and panels before demolishing a factory.
- Transporting asbestos wastes from floor tiles or roofing sheets to licensed disposal facilities. Accredited sites use specialised containment and disposal methods to minimise health risks and comply with environmental laws.
Each bag is sealed (e.g., tied or taped shut) after containment to prevent fibres from spreading further. Note: These are just common uses, and there are more beyond these examples.
Asbestos Waste Removal Training
The hazardous nature of asbestos waste requires specialised knowledge and expertise during removal procedures to ensure safe handling. Anyone working in this field, from workers to supervisors, including those involved in waste transportation and disposal, should undergo asbestos waste removal training.
The level of training will depend on the role. Non-removal workers must have basic awareness, including those who will be present on the marked site. Licensed training is required for professional asbestos removal technicians.
If you need training, the Asbestos Removal Contractors Association (ARCA) is a trusted organisation in the UK and is recognised by the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH).
Do not put your workers at risk of exposure—hire trained personnel to carry out the task safely or invest in training your workers. Proper precautions are crucial, so be ready to provide them with personal protective equipment (PPE) for extra protection.
At SP Group, we offer a variety of PPE to protect your team during asbestos removal, including heavy-duty disposable coveralls, nitrile gloves, overshoes, and safety glasses. For consultation and quotations, reach out to us at +44 28 9442 8611 or email hello@s-pgroup.com.