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Asbestos Compliance

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Asbestos FAQs

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous silicate mineral found in the veins of igneous or metamorphic rocks. It is known for its unique physical properties, which made it a popular material in various industries. The three most common types of asbestos are Chrysotile (white asbestos), Amosite (brown asbestos), and Crocidolite (blue asbestos). Chrysotile is the most abundant type, accounting for around 95% of the asbestos used in buildings. Despite the well-known health risks associated with asbestos, it is still mined in several countries worldwide.

Under the Control of Asbestos Regulation (CAR) 2012, employers and duty holders have a legal obligation to protect their employees and others from the risks associated with asbestos exposure. They must conduct thorough assessments to identify the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in their premises and evaluate the potential risks of exposure. Based on these assessments, employers must develop and implement appropriate management plans to minimise the risk of asbestos exposure. This includes providing accurate information, training, and suitable protective equipment to anyone who may come into contact with ACMs during their work.

Employers must also ensure that any work involving asbestos is carried out by competent persons and in accordance with strict safety protocols. Regular monitoring, maintenance, and record-keeping are essential to maintain a safe working environment and comply with legal requirements.

The United Kingdom took a significant step towards protecting public health by banning the importation of blue (crocidolite) and brown (amosite) asbestos in 1985. This prohibition came in response to the growing body of scientific evidence that linked exposure to these types of asbestos with severe health consequences, particularly mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer of the lung lining. The ban on blue and brown asbestos importation marked a crucial milestone in the UK’s efforts to reduce asbestos-related diseases and safeguard the well-being of its citizens. It also set a precedent for further regulations and restrictions on asbestos use in the following years.

Asbestos poses a significant threat to human health when its fibres become airborne and are inhaled. The small, needle-like fibres can penetrate deep into the lungs, where they become trapped. Unlike other particles, asbestos fibres cannot be easily expelled by the body’s natural defences, such as coughing or mucus clearance. The body’s immune system attempts to break down these foreign fibres by releasing acids, but asbestos is highly resistant to acid. As a result, the acids end up damaging the surrounding lung tissue, leading to inflammation, scarring, and the development of serious asbestos-related diseases, such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

Asbestos earned the nickname “miracle mineral” due to its remarkable versatility and desirable properties. It can be easily woven, spun, or teased, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Asbestos exhibits excellent thermal stability, making it resistant to fire and heat. It also possesses electrical resistance, making it an ideal insulator for electrical components. Additionally, asbestos has anti-condensation properties, acoustic absorbency, and strong binding properties when mixed with cements, plastics, and bitumen. Its resistance to acids further contributed to its popularity in various industries, such as construction, shipbuilding, and automotive manufacturing.

Accredited, Tested Asbestos Solutions

UKAS Accredited – Inspection

Our UKAS ISO 17025 accredited hazardous materials laboratory operates under the legal entity Lucion Services. Lucion Services is a UKAS-accredited inspection body No. 0263 in relation to asbestos.

View our UKAS Schedule

UKAS Accredited – 2569

Our UKAS ISO 17025 accredited hazardous materials laboratory operates under the legal entity Lucion Services. Lucion Services is a UKAS accredited testing laboratory No. 2569 in relation to asbestos.

View our UKAS schedule

ATAC: 6080

Asbestos Testing & Consultancy Association Member

Regular Interlaboratory Counting Exchanges (RICE)

Our UKAS ISO 17025-accredited hazardous materials laboratory operates under the legal entity Lucion Services Ltd. We participate in the Regular Interlaboratory Counting Exchanges (RICE).

Global Excellence Awards

Global Excellence Awards

Environmental Risk Management Company UK 2023

Lucion Group – winner

ATaC National Training Awards 2023

ATaC National Training Awards 2023

Asbestos Testing And Consultancy – Winner

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Testimonials

I recently attended Lucion’s Asbestos Awareness course at Severn Trent in Coventry. The course was led by Technical Consultant Adam Lomas, who demonstrated exceptional knowledge and expertise throughout the session.
Adam went above and beyond to ensure all participants fully understood the material. His breadth of knowledge across the subject matter was evident, and he handled questions with professionalism and clarity.

Adam is a real credit to Lucion, and I would highly recommend this course to anyone requiring asbestos awareness training.

Roy Clifton Severn Trent

We’ve worked with Lucion Services since 2018, and they’ve become an invaluable partner to our CP&P Minor Works team. Managing hundreds of projects a year across Manchester’s diverse portfolio, from our historic Town Hall to schools and leisure centres, requires a partner who truly understands our needs.

What sets Lucion apart is their responsiveness and consistency. Whether it’s a planned survey or an emergency requiring a 4-hour response, they deliver without compromising on quality. Their team knows our properties and procedures, and they communicate clearly with all our stakeholders. They’re not just contractors, they’re trusted partners in keeping our buildings safe and compliant.

Team Lead Manchester City Council

I wanted to just say a quick thank you for the work you have put in on the Wimbledon site and, in particular, the call that we held with the ET SHE management team – They advised that they were really impressed with the points that you covered and how you came across (and by association Lucion) in your advice.

Sam Young NG Electricity Transmission

We’ve worked with Lucion for over 13 years now, and they’ve become a real part of our team at City of York Council. Whether it’s tackling big planned projects or responding quickly when something unexpected comes up, Lucion always delivers. They’ve helped us tighten up our compliance processes and make sure we’re keeping our residents and members of the public safe, something we really value. Their team is easy to work with, always keeps us in the loop, and brings real expertise to every job. We trust them completely with the safety of our housing and commercial properties.

Paul Simpson Compliance Manager

Lucion has proven to be an invaluable partner in managing our asbestos compliance requirements since 2016. Their resident-focused approach, combined with technical expertise, has made them a trusted presence across our housing portfolio.  

Their surveyors’ professional appearance and conduct have helped build resident confidence, while their thorough reporting and project management ensure we maintain the highest standards of safety. The renewal of our contract to 2029 reflects our confidence in their continued excellence. 

Lisa Boulton Health & Safety Compliance Manager

Lucion is a professional and very approachable organisation. Extremely helpful in giving technical advice on asbestos management issues.

NHS Property Services Ltd

I am delighted to congratulate you on being awarded The Partnership & Collaboration Award 2019 from the Association of Safety and Compliance Professionals.

Through working with you as our partner, the QR codes which are being placed on fireboxes is groundbreaking. Contractors can instantly bring up the asbestos survey complete with 3D modelling to show exactly the location of asbestos within that building.

This is another major step forward in how we manage our properties with the safety of our residents and partners at the heart of what we do.

Matt Jukes Chief Executive Hull City Council

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