What is Loose-fill Asbestos Insulation?
Loose-fill insulation is one of the most dangerous forms of asbestos you can come across. The good news is it’s relatively easy to identify from a distance. If you notice this loose-fill insulation in your building, call a removal team and do not touch it yourself.
Unlike most forms of asbestos, we wouldn’t recommend approaching it with a testing kit unless you are competent to do so, as the risk of disturbing the material when sampling is high. Instead, contact an asbestos surveyor or removal specialist to investigate further.
What does asbestos loose-fill insulation look like?
Loose-fill asbestos insulation has a fluffy yet solid appearance and usually is grey/white with a blue tinge. It may look like lumps of clay to the untrained eye, so if you notice this anywhere in your building called the experts immediately.
When did they stop using loose-fill asbestos?
Because asbestos was made illegal just before the year 2000, it has not been used in construction projects since. This material was used across the 20th century, including the 1970s when many UK homes were built. However, its usage declined during the 1980s when more reports of problems appeared.
Thousands of projects all over the country used asbestos – including loose-fill asbestos. Because many of the aging buildings that still contain it are now undergoing renovation, the next step is to detect and remove loose-fill asbestos before it can do any harm.
Why was loose-fill asbestos used?
Asbestos was used as insulation for years in the UK, especially throughout the 20th century. Its usefulness saw it earn the nickname the ‘magic material,' and as it grew in popularity, its usage increased.
The material was incredibly useful when used as in insulation. It kept out the cold, moisture and kept areas secure and protected. However, once its dangerous nature was revealed, those in the construction industry begin to stop using it.
Unfortunately, it had already been used in countless projects across the country, and loose-fill asbestos was one of the most dangerous ways it had been added to buildings. This was because the asbestos was loose, so the fibres could be breathed in more easily.
How dangerous is loose-fill asbestos?
Very, if the microscopic asbestos particles are inhaled by those nearby. Asbestos even loose-fill asbestos insulation that is tucked away behind walls and secured within the building is probably safe.
But renovation work has a habit of disturbing the insulation, and if this contains loose-fill asbestos, then it’s dangerous for anyone living or working nearby. Before work continues, the asbestos needs to be removed so the area is safe again.
We would normally advocate use of a testing kit, but loose-fill asbestos may be too risky to approach. If you suspect your insulation contains loose-fill asbestos, then hire an asbestos surveyor to find out and remove it for you.
Do not attempt to continue with the work until you know for sure. Asbestos can lead to lifelong respiratory disorders – including lung cancer. Therefore, do not take the risk.
The content on this page/article was last updated on the 5th December 2023 by our team and was reviewed and fact checked by William Wright, DipNEBOSH on the 5th December 2023.
William is a qualified health & safety consultant who holds NEBOSH & IOSH certifications.
