Why Informing The Fire and Rescue Service about Asbestos Is Crucial
Asbestos management in commercial buildings like offices, warehouses, and industrial spaces is crucial. It’s essential to inform your local Fire and Rescue service about any asbestos materials present. This step ensures the safety of their staff and the surrounding community. Many Fire and Rescue services offer online portals for submitting this information, aligning with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. These regulations mandate duty holders of non-domestic premises to provide details on the location and condition of asbestos or asbestos-containing materials to the emergency services. Prioritising this communication is key to maintaining a safe environment for all.
What Are The Risks Associated With Asbestos In A Fire?
Asbestos poses a major health risk, causing serious damage to the lungs and respiratory system upon exposure. When damaged by fire, asbestos can present even greater risks. We are examining the risks associated with asbestos and fire to address this issue. One major concern with asbestos and fire is that it was commonly used in building structural components. Materials such as support beam cladding, firebreaks, doors, and ceiling coatings often contain asbestos. While this was beneficial for fire protection due to the strength and heat resistance of asbestos fibres, it also poses significant health risks. The main issue presented by asbestos materials during fires is that the fire destroys the materials containing the asbestos fibres. The breakdown of these materials can lead to a significant release of fibres. Asbestos has a much higher melting point than other construction materials, as shown in the table below. Melting point of fibreglass […]