Asbestos is a fibre that occurs naturally that was used extensively in the construction industry up until the latter part of the 1990s. It was often used in flooring, roofing and even in insulation before the dangers of using asbestos were fully understood. There are three types of asbestos, white, brown and blue. Whilst asbestos is now a banned material, many homes that were built before the year 2000 may still have asbestos in their construction.
When asbestos remains intact, it is relatively harmless, but when it is broken up and the fibres are released, it can enter into our lungs and can cause severe damage. As a result of these findings, asbestos has become a banned substance. Due to its extensive use in construction, it has been found in the soil in a number of areas of the country. Again whilst it stays intact, it will not pollute the soil or cause an issue.
The issue of asbestos in the soil can arise when the soil is disturbed for further construction or if excavation works are undertaken. Over time the asbestos may also travel from its original location through the soil. This is why when asbestos is found in the soil, it is best to work with a Remediation Contractors like Soilfix Remediation to have it removed safely, and any land remediation works undertaken to make the soil and area safe once again.