Asbestos in Industrial and Construction Materials

Friction Materials

Friction materials such as belt systems, clutches, drive-chains, and brake shoes in heavy factory machinery often contain asbestos. Marked with warning labels, these items can contain up to 70% white asbestos.

Asbestos Gaskets

Common in plant machinery, cars, and boiler systems, asbestos gaskets can contain up to 90% asbestos and are susceptible to damage, posing a risk during removal.

Asbestos Textiles

Asbestos, being easily woven, is found in fire blankets and ropes, typically as 100% compressed white asbestos. The compression aids in reducing the danger level.

Screw Fix and Asbestos Paper

• Screw Fix: A substance used in place of raw plugs, recently identified to contain asbestos.
• Asbestos Paper, Felt, and Card: Used as lagging in boiler systems, these are often 100% white asbestos and easily damaged.

Asbestos Insulation Boards (AIBs)

AIBs have varied asbestos content, often including 25% brown asbestos for extended combustion range, aiding in fire evacuation time.

Composite Boards and Mill-Boards

• Composite Boards: Used for damp proofing and sound insulation, containing up to 40% asbestos.
• Mill-Boards: Often found in older buildings, containing up to 97% white asbestos.

Examples and Usage

Composite boards, like those with small holes used in schools, and mill-boards, used for damp proofing and sound insulation, are highlighted with examples in the provided photographs.

Reinforced Glass and Window Insulation in Flats

Reinforced glass replaced with asbestos insulating board is shown, marked with a warning label. Under windows in block of flats, asbestos is used for water resistance, a common application due to its durability against rain flow.

Case Study: Window Removal and Asbestolux

The story of a window remover provides insight into the risks associated with asbestos exposure. Additionally, Asbestolux ceiling tiles, used until 1999, are showcased.