The need for asbestos removal specialists continues as asbestos is a deadly material that must be removed when properties are renovated as well as when sites are surveyed for demolition. Therefore, the need for asbestos experts continues to burgeon in the UK.
For example, to give you an idea of the jobs that are available that are asbestos-related, the following list features job vacancies that were posted recently by a recruitment company.
- Asbestos lab analyst
- Asbestos surveyor
- Asbestos lab manager
- Asbestos training manager
Working as a Consultant
Asbestos consultant jobs are numerous as well and call for the applicants to perform on-site inspections and be certified in the field. It helps the candidate to have the applicable university training and endorsements in the industry. Many consultant positions involve a good deal of field work and some office activities.
Typical Responsibilities
Typically, responsibilities of an asbestos consultant include the following tasks:
- Performing on-site asbestos investigations
- Overseeing abatement activities for asbestos as well as mould remediation and the removal of lead paint, or similar materials
- Managing indoor air quality evaluations
Usually, consultants are required to be available for work outside of work hours and on the weekend, as required. If you work as a consultant, you should be well versed in all aspects of asbestos. For instance, the surveys that are usually performed include the following:
- Asbestos management survey
- Pre-refurbishment survey
- Pre-demolition service
Consultants are sometimes called to be expert witnesses as well.
Asbestos Used in Construction
Asbestos itself is the common name for various silicate minerals that occur naturally. Whilst six of these fibrous minerals are known to exist, three of the minerals are primarily found in commercial applications. These three minerals include:
- Chrysotile (white)
- Amosite (brown)
- Crocidolite (blue)
The other less common asbestos materials include anthophyllite, tremolite, and actinolite. If asbestos is disturbed, it can separate into even finer and thinner fibres, making it hard to detect visually. In fact, the fibres can split to the point that they become microscopic in size. Therefore, airborne asbestos can represent a problem, if not severe health hazard who breathes in the particles.
When Asbestos Was Used in Construction
Asbestos was thought to be a superior building product until its hazards were discovered. In the UK, asbestos was used extensively in construction materials from the 1950s to the middle part of the 1980s.
Asbestos has been used a great deal to insulate houses and safeguard them from fire. The materials can be found in central heating systems, floor tiles, gutters, roofs, fuse boxes, and pipe lagging. Whilst the materials are safe as long as they are intact, airborne fibres lead to major health concerns when disturbed.
Asbestos is not going to go away any time soon. Therefore, consultants are valued in the asbestos industry.
