How about removing your old asbestos roof?
Asbestos corrugated sheets are very common in the agricultural sector. Under the influence of damage, aging or weathering, asbestos-containing materials are a risk if they release harmful asbestos fibres into the environment. That's because the binder that traps the harmful asbestos fibers is getting weaker. A safe removal of asbestos in a bad state will also be more difficult and more costly. On top of that, in the event of a fire, asbestos fibres can be released as well.
Eternit’s past in asbestos materials
In line with the evolution of scientific knowledge and legislation, Etex companies took a series of measures to reduce exposure to asbestos and comply with recommended exposure limits, and eventually banned the use of asbestos from their production processes worldwide. While we cannot undo what happened in the past, we have developed a corporate social responsibility program based on the following pillars:
- recognize and compensate victims
- avoid further exposure
- support scientific research concerning asbestos related diseases.
How can I recognize asbestos corrugated sheets?
If you had the roof installed before 1993, then it probably contains asbestos. In 1993, Eternit stopped processing this material in the corrugated sheets. If you’re not sure when your roof was installed, you can search for the letters NT (New Technology) on the corrugated iron, see image. Look at the top of the corrugated sheet, at the location of the last (6th) upstanding wave on the side. Their presence indicates that this cement contains synthetic fibers, cellulose and various additives, not asbestos. If you still have doubts about whether or not the corrugated sheet contains asbestos, an expert can help you figure it out.
Can I remove the asbestos myself?
A private individual may remove a maximum of 35 m² of asbestos (roof) that is in good condition. This is only allowed in strictly-defined cases. Local authorities can inform you under which conditions this is allowed. Removal of asbestos must always be reported to the local authorities.
The removal of more than 35 m² of asbestos must in all cases be done by a certified company on the basis of Article 6, first paragraph, of the Asbestos Removal Decree 2005. On the basis of the third paragraph of that article, you may be fined if the work has been carried out by a non-certified company.
Do you still have questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us.
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