Gel Cutting – A New Removal Technique

Gel packs provide an alternative to the wrap and cut method for removing pipes, but without direct comparison, how do we know if the technique’s an improvement? FAAM designed a test to compare the two - Nick Garland examines the results.

Asbestos in schools: is the awareness building?

The government rejected Work and Pension Committee recommendations for a 40-year asbestos removal programme in public buildings. Now the Times has picked up the baton, launching a campaign to have ACMs removed from schools, as Nick Garland reports.

Reducing the asbestos exposure limit: a tough act to follow

Different EU groups are advocating up to 100-fold lower asbestos exposure limits. It might sound a good idea, but removalists will need new techniques and protection to get there. Nick Garland explains why.

The Retained EU Law Bill – is sense prevailing at last?

As it was drafted, the Retained EU Law bill could have seen the wholesale repeal of EU legislation - including vital law like the Control of Asbestos Regulations. Fortunately it seems there’s been an outbreak of sense, as Nick Garland explains.

Approaching the cliff edge – unknown asbestos

It’s rare to see a great article on asbestos in the mainstream press, but a recent Times special report serves to highlight our biggest challenge: ageing, inefficient buildings, hiding a deadly asbestos legacy.

Asbestos in cosmetics – why are we still using talc?

It’s reported that at least 100 British women have joined legal action against US cosmetic firms over the risk of asbestos exposure from talc in makeup. Nick Garland looks at the links between talc and asbestos, and asks why we’re using it at all.

An update on the Asbestos Network monitoring guidance

It won’t be long now before the Asbestos Network releases its updated guidance on personal monitoring. A lot’s changed since we last looked at the draft, so we’ve put together some updated analysis.

Sorry for the inconvenience – the HSE cracks down on site facilities

Site welfare doesn’t always mean a Portaloo and a couple of picnic tables. Now the Health and Safety Executive is tightening up its guidance, with real consequences for contractors who don’t meet suitable standards. Here’s Nick Garland’s summary.

The 100% clean – comparing blasting and needle guns

When you absolutely, positively have to get rid of every trace of asbestos in a room, you’re probably looking at blasting or needle guns. What are the risks and issues with using both, and how do you mitigate them?

Positive changes to improve personal safety in the DCU

Colette Willoughby’s powerful talk on the safety of female analysts stunned many of us who heard it. I’m pleased to see that it continues to make an impact, and that our industry is beginning to make the changes that our female colleagues demand and deserve.

The Work and Pensions Committee asbestos report: five key recommendations

The Work and Pensions Committee has published its report on how the HSE manages asbestos in the UK. It’s full of well-balanced recommendations - here we look at the details, and focus in on five recommendations that could transform UK asbestos management for the better.

When to visual in the four-stage clearance

The Analysts’ Guide clearly states that analysts shouldn’t enter a ‘live’ enclosure, but this sensible instruction is leading to misunderstandings with big cost and program repercussions. While it may seem confusing on the surface, Nick Garland explains what it actually says, and why.