A new organisation (Asbestos Control & Abatement Division)* to extend and develop asbestos removal techniques and to register practitioners has been set up by the Thermal Insulation Contractors Association.
An estimated 6m tonnes of asbestos has been imported into this country since the turn of the century. Asbestos products are still present in a wide range of buildings. Its removal and disposal is strictly controlled in legislation and well supported by codes of practice issued by the Health & Safety Executive. New removal techniques, particularly the use of wet stripping methods, are being developed.
ACAD maintains a national register of contractors who are bound by a code of practice. It provides an independent complaints procedure and aims to improve working conditions and sponsor research.
*ACAD, Kensway House, 388 High Road, Ilford, IG1 1TL.
