Asbestos is the name given to a group of naturally occurring minerals used in certain products, such as building materials and vehicle brakes, to resist heat and corrosion. The inhalation of asbestos fibres can cause serious diseases of the lungs and other organs that may not appear until years after the exposure has occurred.

Large quantities of asbestos still exist in many buildings. You should ensure that you know if and where asbestos is present; what condition it is in and how people, including contractors may possibly be exposed to asbestos e.g. during refurbishment or routine maintenance.

You can now view information about asbestos in schools.

Environmental Health provide advice and guidance on suspected asbestos within commercial premises and privately owned houses in Monmouthshire.  We can also offer advice on how to remove asbestos and where to dispose of it.

If you operate commercial premises you should assess the risk arising from asbestos and remove or treat it if necessary. You should always check with the Health and Safety Executive to see if you need a licensed asbestos contractor if you are considering removing or treating asbestos. Any asbestos that remains should be managed to ensure it is not damaged to prevent exposure to asbestos fibres. Measures to manage asbestos include keeping a log of where all asbestos is, labelling it and regular checks on its condition.

Further information is available on line from the Health and Safety Executive.