Asbestos Alternatives

Asbestos was widely used for its insulating properties plus a high level of heat, flame and acid resistance. Modern alternative materials to asbestos need to fulfil the role that the asbestos product was originally intended for. In some instances this is a simple decision; garages were often built using asbestos roofing sheets. A simple, modern and safe alternative would be to use corrugated steel or corrugated plastic sheets. In another instance, a small flat piece of marble or thick glass can be used to prevent hot kitchen pans and dishes from damaging worktops. Both of these examples show how many products were made from asbestos over the years when there were already suitable alternatives around.

When it comes to other specific products and previous uses of asbestos, its flame retardant or insulating properties become more important and alternatives have to be able to offer a similar level of effectiveness in a material that is safe(r) to handle, cost effective and easy to work with.

Please remember that in many cases sufficient research has yet to be undertaken to ascertain the safety aspects of using a substantial number of substitute materials.

Manufactured inorganic fibres (MIF)

Naturally occurring crystalline fibres and other minerals

Natural organic fibre

Manufactured organic fibre

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'Asbestos Reference' is the site for info relating to identifying asbestos and the careful management, removal and disposal of sheeting, insulation and other products made from the material. All information provided at this site is offered on a non-professional basis and you should take all sensible precautions and consult qualified UK professional organisations and contractors when dealing with asbestos.