Removing old slates - Asbestos?

Considering building on to an old house built in 1940s. How should I dispose of the old slates? I think they may contain some asbestos but have been told its only dangerous it the slates are broken and dust is generated. Would I need specialists to do it? I have seen lots of old houses knocked around the area and slates seemed to be dumped with the rest.

Are they actual slate, or are they low profile concrete tiles? The 40s would have been peak times for concrete roof tiles containing asbestos.

These are relatively safe while intact and in good condition, but disturbing them is likely to result in fibres being released. You don't need visible dust for that to be the case. There are strick reulations about the removal, packaging, and disposal of material containing asbestos. For the sake of your long term health, and that of those around you, I'd recommend getting in a licensed contractor to advise.

For advice on asbestos, see the [broken link removed] guide.
Leo

declanja said:

Considering building on to an old house built in 1940s. How should I dispose of the old slates? I think they may contain some asbestos but have been told its only dangerous it the slates are broken and dust is generated. Would I need specialists to do it? I have seen lots of old houses knocked around the area and slates seemed to be dumped with the rest.

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Get an asbestos report done by a specialist. They will tell you the correct type. If they are not natural slate, then they are almost definitely asbestos containing.
If this is the case, your neighbours, their architects and their builders are breaking the law - and allowing themselves be sued for negligence.

With old slates what you need to pay particular attention to is the run-off - asbestos dust can gather in gutters for example. Even if you ensure the slates are intact when you remove them, there is still dust about.

Under no circumstances risk your health with Abestos exposure. Get in an expert

I'm in process of buying an old cottage and plan to renovate it. The roof is pale grey coloured corrugated panels. How do I know if this is asbestos and how/where to dispose of it? What is the cost/time-scale for 'getting an expert'?

Thank you in advance for advice.

Most of those corrugated cement panels do contain asbestos. You'll need to get a licenced expert in to assess asbestos content and removal cost. Only a licenced operator may remove the roof and dispose of the material.

I did some work on the health and safety statement for our local school. You'll find useful information here [broken link removed] It covers slates and others - we even had a problem with toilet cisterns!