Asbestos legislation
Asbestos is a collective term for a group of naturally occurring minerals belonging to the silicate family. These minerals consist of microscopic yet extremely strong fibres. When inhaled, these fibres can cause fatal lung diseases. The presence of asbestos continues to pose a serious health risk in many older buildings. In the past, asbestos was widely used because of its heat resistance and durability. Today, we know that it represents an invisible danger to anyone who comes into contact with it. But how can you recognise asbestos and, more importantly, how can you handle it safely?
Table of contents
Asbestos can often be found in roofing materials, façade panels, pipe insulation, and vinyl flooring. Visually, asbestos is difficult to distinguish from other materials, especially when it has deteriorated or is covered. In cases of doubt, a specialised laboratory analysis should always be carried out. The main risk arises when asbestos-containing materials become damaged and release fibres into the air. Even small amounts of asbestos dust can be hazardous. For this reason, it is essential to exercise extreme caution during renovation or demolition works and to implement appropriate preventive measures. `
Legislation and guidelines
What are the safety risks associated with asbestos?
Serious diseases such as lung cancer and mesothelioma (when asbestos fibres are released and inhaled).
Furthermore, these diseases often develop only decades after exposure, meaning that previous contact with asbestos is frequently forgotten or underestimated. This makes early detection and preventive measures even more important. The risks are not limited to workers alone. Family members can also be exposed through secondary contamination caused by asbestos dust present on work clothing.
Safety tips when dealing with asbestos
- Training and education: ensure that employees receive the appropriate training and information on asbestos risks and safe working methods, including mandatory annual refres
- Organisation: only certified and authorised companies are permitted to carry out asbestos demolition and removal activities.
- Work equipment: use work equipment and tools that minimise or prevent the generation of dust during work involving asbestos-containing materials.
- Use of personal protective equipment (PPE): ensure that all PPE is certified, properly inspected, and maintained in good working condition.
- Risk assessment: conduct a risk assessment to identify potential hazards and determine the appropriate control measures to protect employees from asbestos exposure.
- Compliance with legislation
Case study
One in three people who develop mesothelioma in Belgium are so-called “environmental victims”. These are individuals who have never worked in the asbestos industry but have nevertheless been exposed to
A well-known example of this is exposure through asbestos-containing roofing sheets on schools and residential buildings. Children who used to play in schoolyards where asbestos sheets had been damaged may now face an increased health risk. As a result, many municipalities have launched initiatives to remove asbestos from public buildings and to prepare comprehensive asbestos inventories.
In summary
Although asbestos may no longer be used, it continues to pose a significant health risk in many older buildings. Remain vigilant, work safely, and always engage a certified contractor. Proper preparation and caution can save lives. Do not take any risks!
Employers and building owners are also legally required to prepare an asbestos inventory and make it available to employees, contractors, and visitors. This document must be updated regularly, particularly following renovation or demolition works. By implementing a proactive asbestos management policy, you not only demonstrate responsibility but also avoid substantial fines and potential legal liability in the event of incidents.
For more information or specific questions, please do not hesitate to contact our team. You can also visit our pages on the appropriate training courses: Asbestos Training – Simple Operations and Asbestos Identification Training. Prevom would be pleased to visit your organisation and provide further guidance.
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