The dangers of fibre release from asbestos are now well known. Clearly, there is a need to take safety measures to prevent it from occurring. Under current Health & Safety Executive (HSE) regulations, if the asbestos is in good condition, in place management is an option. Too frequently, however, the asbestos is
left in place, unprotected. Good in place management procedures are inexpensive relative to removal and disposal. They involve maintaining the asbestos in-situ by encapsulating with high performance coatings to protect against further aging degradation, movement (vibration) or accidental knocks and scrapes. In many instances this is a one time treatment. Just leaving sound asbestos in place and unprotected is not
advisable. Under "Duty to Manage" regulations you have an ongoing responsibility to protect employees
from air-borne asbestos fibres. And you may only find out you are liable when an employee/worker
becomes ill and litigates. Take that additional SaFE step... Encapsulate even sound asbestos

ACM removal is not the only management option to comply with regulations in the UK. In the US during the 1980's, exhaustive studies on the treatment of ACM's were undertaken by the Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA). The studies resulted in guidelines for ACM's encapsulation. The UK's Health & Safety
Executive recognize that ACM in good condition can, in many instances, be left in place since removal and disposal may create additional environmental risks. Using today's technology and key EPA characteristics
for an encapsulant, SaFE Coatings Ltd. offers specifically designed coatings for encapsulation in the UK. At approximately 1/10th the cost of removal and disposal, and with service life expectations of 15-20 years or more, ACM encapsulation should be seriously considered. If you have an ACM to deal with, here are a few steps to keep in mind. A survey by a qualified surveyor or consultant for an asbestos risk assessment to manage within current regulation is a good idea. This risk assessment will become part of an asbestos register. A survey by a qualified surveyor or consultant is usually not expensive and also reduces your risk. If ACM's are present a Contractor or Contracting Company could be required.