Asbestos in Soil
 

Asbestos contamination of soils requires particularly careful consideration to allay fears amongst stakeholders of the real and perceived risks.

Asbestos risk assessment is a complex undertaking when considering the multiple components that must be considered. Specifically, the three main types of asbestos (chrysotile, amosite and crocidolite) together with lesser-known forms (anthophyllite, tremolite and actinolite). Asbestos contamination of soils may present as either free fibres or fibre bundles in soil (usually invisible to the naked eye) or asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) which may be broken and scattered across a site or buried in the soil. Unlike a fuel spill that spreads out from a source, the extent of asbestos contamination is much more sporadic and difficult to predict.  
 

For these reasons, the investigation and assessment of asbestos-contaminated soils must be completed in a systematic way to ensure all risks are properly understood and any remedial activity designed to cost-effectively mitigate the dangers. Furthermore, asbestos contamination requires awareness and consideration of specialist guidance such as the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, CIRIA C733, CAR-Soil™ by CL:AIRE, the EU REACH legislation and the handling of hazardous waste.
 

We provide comprehensive and cost-effective investigation, risk assessment and remedial recommendations, allowing our clients to balance the risk against the costs and make informed choices as to the best course of action. If you are concerned or aware of your land being contaminated with asbestos, please contact us to discuss how we may help.

​