Introduction:
Asbestos is a word that causes concern for many. But what is the actual situation with asbestos in Danish homes? Is it dangerous even if you don't touch it? And what do you do if you find it? In this blog post, we dispel the most common myths and give you concrete, professional and tangible knowledge - so you can act confidently and informedly.
Asbestos is a word that causes concern for many. But what is the actual situation with asbestos in Danish homes? Is it dangerous even if you don't touch it? And what do you do if you find it? In this blog post, we dispel the most common myths and give you concrete, professional and tangible knowledge - so you can act confidently and informedly.
Myth 1: Asbestos is only dangerous if you live in an old house
Truth:
Asbestos was used in Danish homes and buildings right up to the mid-1980s - especially in roof tiles, pipe insulation, floor tiles and wall panels. So both houses and apartments from this period may contain asbestos – regardless of the type of housing.
Truth:
Asbestos was used in Danish homes and buildings right up to the mid-1980s - especially in roof tiles, pipe insulation, floor tiles and wall panels. So both houses and apartments from this period may contain asbestos – regardless of the type of housing.
Myth 2: If asbestos is encapsulated, there is no risk
Truth:
Asbestos fibers can pose a health risk if the material crumbles, decomposes or is processed (sawing, drilling, cutting). However, well-encapsulated asbestos that is not damaged or disturbed poses only minimal risk under normal conditions.
Truth:
Asbestos fibers can pose a health risk if the material crumbles, decomposes or is processed (sawing, drilling, cutting). However, well-encapsulated asbestos that is not damaged or disturbed poses only minimal risk under normal conditions.
Myth 3: You can easily remove asbestos yourself
Truth:
It is now illegal for private individuals to remove or demolish asbestos in their own home - all asbestos demolition must be carried out by authorized companies, according to the new executive order on asbestos in the working environment (BEK no. 744 of 18/06/2024). If you discover asbestos, you should therefore ALWAYS contact an authorized company for safe removal and handling.
Truth:
It is now illegal for private individuals to remove or demolish asbestos in their own home - all asbestos demolition must be carried out by authorized companies, according to the new executive order on asbestos in the working environment (BEK no. 744 of 18/06/2024). If you discover asbestos, you should therefore ALWAYS contact an authorized company for safe removal and handling.
Myth 4: Asbestos cannot be detected in the air
Truth:
There are professional test methods for measuring asbestos fibers in the air. If you suspect exposure, it can therefore be valuable to have the home examined, especially after renovation, damage or demolition.
Truth:
There are professional test methods for measuring asbestos fibers in the air. If you suspect exposure, it can therefore be valuable to have the home examined, especially after renovation, damage or demolition.
Myth 5: Only old eternit roofs contain asbestos
Truth:
Asbestos is also found in other building materials: ceiling tiles, wall panels, pipe joints, concrete floors and sealants - especially from the 1950s to approx. 1986.
Truth:
Asbestos is also found in other building materials: ceiling tiles, wall panels, pipe joints, concrete floors and sealants - especially from the 1950s to approx. 1986.
What should you do if you find asbestos?
- Leave the material alone - avoid sawing, drilling or cutting it.
- Have it professionally assessed if you are in doubt as to whether the material contains asbestos.
- If it needs to be removed or renovated, contact an authorized company with experience in asbestos removal.
Why is asbestos dangerous?
Asbestos fibers that are inhaled can lead to serious lung diseases over time - and symptoms often only appear many years after exposure. Therefore, prevention and correct handling are the alpha and omega for both private individuals and businesses.
Asbestos fibers that are inhaled can lead to serious lung diseases over time - and symptoms often only appear many years after exposure. Therefore, prevention and correct handling are the alpha and omega for both private individuals and businesses.
Do you want to know more about where asbestos can be found in your home, or do you need help with analysis? Contact us for advice, or read more here on the blog.
