Does Artex Contain Asbestos?
Whether you’re working on a commercial renovation or just doing some DIY, it’s important to know the risks of asbestos associated with Artex. So, before you get out your scraper and start peeling away the layers on your walls and ceilings, you need to know does Artex contain Asbestos?
When did asbestos stop being used in Artex
Artex was a common interior design feature in many UK homes, being used mainly during the 1960s-1990s to cover imperfections like small cracks and holes. Artex often contained asbestos to enhance durability and fire resistance.
The use of asbestos in Artex declined in the late 1970s with the introduction of asbestos-free versions and was formally discontinued in 1984. A complete ban on asbestos-containing materials in the UK was enacted in November 1999. Any Artex applied before this date may contain asbestos.
Does all Artex have asbestos?
Not all Artex contains dangerous fibres. The presence of asbestos depends on when it was applied. Older homes, particularly those built or renovated before the late 1970s, are more likely to contain asbestos. Asbestos was used to improve the durability and fire resistance of Artex, but not all formulations included it.
If you’re unsure, it’s advisable to have your Artex tested by a professional. This ensures safety, especially during renovations, as disturbing asbestos-containing materials can release harmful fibres into the air.
How do you know if Artex has asbestos?
It’s impossible to know for sure that Artex may contain asbestos just by looking at it with the way that asbestos was combined with non-asbestos fibres. Even the fibres of asbestos are so small that even if they are released, they cannot be seen and don’t give off an odour.
That’s why to ensure your safety, make sure professional testing is performed on any Artex that is suspected of containing this dangerous substance.
Asbestos Safety Courses
Asbestos could be in the house or building you are working on right now. Left alone, it isn’t dangerous. However, once disturbed, tiny asbestos fibres are released which can prove lethal if breathed in, causing lung disease and cancer. Explore our Asbestos Safety learning solutions here Asbestos Safety Courses.
Asbestos Awareness (CAT A) Courses – £46.80 inc. VAT
Asbestos Awareness Refresher (CAT A) Courses – £31.20 inc. VAT
Duty to Manage Asbestos Courses – £102.00 inc. VAT
Non-Licensed Asbestos Work (CAT B) Courses – £222.00 inc. VAT
Non-licensed Asbestos Work Refresher (CAT B) Courses – £126.00 inc. VAT
Edited by Operations Manager, Max Cassin