Somerset introduces new asbestos safety rules

Cement bonded or sheet asbestos is accepted at seven of Somersets 18 recycling sites: Bridgwater (Saltlands), Frome, Highbridge, Minehead, Street, Taunton (Priorswood) and Yeovil. For other forms of asbestos, residents are advised to seek professional advice.

Residents are being instructed to bring household asbestos double wrapped and sealed in heavy duty plastic, such as rubble bags closed with gaffer or duct tape. Large sheets should not be broken up but need to be double wrapped as they are, using heavy duty plastic.

Collection

If householders are unable to take asbestos or items containing asbestos to one of the designated recycling sites, they can alternatively arrange for an asbestos collection for a fee with the council.

Storage heaters, which can contain asbestos, should not be broken up but disposed of through an asbestos collection or taken complete and double wrapped to one of the seven recycling sites that accept asbestos, after calling the site.

Asbestos is a toxic material that was once used for insulation and fireproofing in construction. Because some forms have been linked to lung diseases, asbestos is no longer used in new homes. However, older buildings may still contain asbestos, which is a hazardous waste.

Standards

Somerset Waste Partnership managing director Steve Read said: Somerset is raising the standards to ensure everyones safety, whether it is residents disposing of asbestos or other recycling site users and staff.

SWP instructs residents to: Double wrap all asbestos in strong bags prior to taking to a recycling site for disposal. Use gloves and masks when handling asbestos and, where possible, do not break, drill, scrub or saw the asbestos. Damp down the working area with water to limit airborne particles and remaining fibres should be cleared up with a damp cloth, which should be included with the asbestos for disposal.

Residents are required to telephone the councils recycling sites in advance to ensure there is space for the asbestos and must alert staff as they arrive to be directed to the correct container.