Asbestos In Soils

Introduction/Principles

Asbestos refers to six naturally occurring silicate minerals, with Crocidolite (blue), Chrysotile (white), and Amosite (brown) being the most commonly used in construction. Asbestos was widely used due to its fire resistance, strength, and affordability, but it was banned in the UK in 1999 due to serious health risks including lung cancer and mesothelioma.

Historically, poor waste management and demolition practices have left asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in soils across many sites. Vertase FLI specialises in the investigation, assessment, and remediation of these contaminated soils, adhering to evolving legislation and best practices.

Regulation

Key regulations include The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, the HSE Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) L143, and The Hazardous Waste Regulations 2007. Compliance ensures clear responsibilities for landholders and clients, preventing delegation of duties to consultants or contractors.

Solutions/Treatment

We offer comprehensive services including site surveys, trial pitting, and analytical testing to evaluate asbestos contamination. Our solutions encompass Conceptual Site Models, Risk Assessments, and Plans of Work (POW) in line with regulatory requirements. Remediation methods vary based on the form and concentration of asbestos, and site conditions.

Remediation Technique Examples

  • Hand-picking
  • Screening
  • Solidification
  • Soil Washing
  • Clean Cover Systems
  • Offsite Disposal or Treatment
  • On-site Controlled Reuse

Control and Protection Measures

Work involving asbestos in soils is classified into non-licensed, notifiable non-licensed, and licensed asbestos work. Vertase FLI implements stringent control methods such as full training, appropriate PPE and RPE, medical record keeping, moisture control techniques, and environmental monitoring.

From tender through to project completion, the team at Vertase FLI provided a very collaborative and thoroughly professional service with a positive problem solving approach.

Daniel Baker

Contracts Director, Brown and Mason Group Limited

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For more information about our services and how we can assist with asbestos in soils.

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