Asbestos is a set of six naturally occurring silicate minerals. Composed of millions of microscopic fibrils, the thin fibrous crystals can be released by abrasion and other processes. Although Asbestos mining has been around for over 4,000 years, and used in widespread insulation processes and building operations it is only in the last century that the severe health hazards associated with the material has come into light.
Prolonged inhalation of Asbestos fibres can cause serious and fatal illnesses including pneumoconiosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. Concern with these Asbestos-related illnesses began in the early 20th century and escalated in the 1920’s. By the 1980’s and 90’s it eventually phased out and outright banned in most countries. The importance of Asbestos Consultancy remains incredibly important to this date and vigorous locating and eliminating of the material is essential to public health. Asbestos-related liability remains an on-going concern for many insurers, re-insurers and manufacturers.
Ayrton is one of Ireland’s longest serving Consultancy Service and Training providers. Ayrton combine specialist qualifications with over 25 years experience having undertaken surveys on projects of all sizes in the asbestos field. The company are members of “Asbestos in Materials Scheme” (AIMS) for the analysis of materials for asbestos fibres and the “Regular Interlaboratory Counting Exchange” (RICE) for airborne fibre counting and analysis. These schemes are required by the HSA “Practical Guidelines on ACM Management and Abatement” for Asbestos Consultancy companies as proof of competency.
For more information on Asbestos related courses visit https://www.ayrton.ie/safety-consultancy/construction/asbestos-awareness-courses/
By Melissa Hegarty for Ayrton Group
