Asbestos Gaskets

Primarily used throughout the 20th century due to its effective heat resistance, durability and ability to withstand high pressures, asbestos gaskets were widely used in various industrial applications. Used across numerous sectors, such as manufacturing, automotive, construction and more, asbestos gaskets were composed of asbestos fibres and were employed as mechanical seals, to fit between two surfaces and therefore help to prevent leakage.  

As they were so widely implemented, many types of asbestos gaskets (e.g. asbestos rope seals) can still be found in buildings constructed before 1999 (when asbestos was banned in the UK). If the asbestos fibres present within asbestos gaskets are disrupted, disturbed or broken, there is a high chance that they become airborne and pose a significant threat to those who may inhale the asbestos fibres. Those working with heating systems, boilers, piping, plumbing, engines and other common systems may be more prone to encountering asbestos gaskets.

If you have asbestos gaskets as part of your systems, then it is absolutely necessary that you are aware of their current condition, location, age and other important factors. This is especially vital if you are the dutyholder of a commercial building, and therefore you have a legal obligation to appropriately manage any asbestos-containing materials on your property. 

Under no circumstances should you attempt to remove asbestos gaskets if you are not a trained and competent individual. Any remedial or removal works should be carried out by a trained professional with experience in the sector – failure to adhere to the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 could result in hefty fines, or even imprisonment in more severe cases. This is where the experts at Reddish Vale can help.