Asbestos Isn't Just Found in Old Buildings

30 Jun

When most people hear the word asbestos, they immediately think of old houses, ageing schools or industrial buildings constructed decades ago. While it's true that asbestos was widely used in UK construction until it was banned in 1999, recent events have reminded us of something important:

Asbestos isn't only associated with old buildings.

In recent weeks, reports revealed that asbestos-containing components had been identified in approximately 1,000 wind turbines across the UK. Understandably, this attracted media attention and raised concerns.

But what actually happened?

Should homeowners be worried?

And what can this teach us about asbestos?

Let's separate the facts from the headlines.

What Happened?

The asbestos wasn't found in the structure of the wind turbines themselves.

Instead, it was identified in brake components fitted within internal service lifts installed inside some turbine towers. These parts were supplied through an overseas supply chain and contained chrysotile (white asbestos).

Although asbestos has been banned in the UK for over 25 years, imported products can still present unexpected challenges if supply chains are not properly controlled.

This discovery prompted inspections, risk assessments and a programme to replace the affected components.

Was There a Risk?

This is where many headlines can become misleading.

Finding asbestos does not automatically mean people are in danger. According to reports, the asbestos-containing components were enclosed within the lift mechanism and were not releasing fibres during normal operation. Air monitoring found no detectable airborne asbestos fibres, and the risk to workers and the public was assessed as very low under normal conditions.

The situation was managed through:

identifying the affected turbines,
assessing the level of risk,
following safe working procedures,
replacing components where necessary.

This is exactly how asbestos should be managed.

The Biggest Myth About Asbestos

One of the most common misconceptions is: "If asbestos is present, it must be removed immediately." This simply isn't true.

Many asbestos-containing materials remain in buildings across the UK. If those materials are:

in good condition,
sealed,
and left undisturbed,

they generally present very little risk. The greatest danger arises when asbestos is unknowingly disturbed during refurbishment, demolition or maintenance work.

What This Means for Homeowners

Although the wind turbine story involves industrial equipment, the lesson is exactly the same for domestic properties. Many homeowners discover asbestos during projects such as:

replacing ceilings,
renovating kitchens,
removing walls,
converting lofts,
replacing floor coverings.

Often the first reaction is panic. However, the safest response is much simpler: Stop work. Arrange asbestos identification. Then make informed decisions based on the results.

Why Surveys Matter

An asbestos survey isn't designed to create unnecessary work.

It's designed to answer one simple question:

"What am I actually dealing with?"

A professional survey identifies:

whether asbestos is present,
what type of material it is,
its condition,
whether it can safely remain in place,
or whether removal is recommended before refurbishment.

In many cases, the survey confirms that materials can continue to be safely managed without immediate removal.

Asbestos Hasn't Disappeared

Although asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999, millions of buildings constructed before that date still contain asbestos-containing materials. The recent wind turbine discovery demonstrates another important point: Asbestos can occasionally appear in unexpected places, particularly where products or components have been imported from countries with different manufacturing standards or regulations. This highlights why quality assurance, proper inspections and professional assessments remain essential.

At ACMS, we believe asbestos should be approached with facts rather than fear. Stories like the recent wind turbine reports often create alarming headlines, but they also provide an opportunity to explain an important truth: The presence of asbestos does not automatically mean there is an immediate danger.

What matters is understanding:

where it is,
what condition it is in,
whether it is likely to be disturbed,
and how it should be managed safely.

Our goal is never to recommend unnecessary removal. We believe every property deserves an honest, independent assessment. While some situations require asbestos to be removed, many materials can be safely managed in place without unnecessary disruption. That's why every recommendation we make is based on the condition of the material, the planned work and the level of risk, not assumptions.

The recent wind turbine story reminds us that asbestos is not just a problem of the past. It also reminds us that good risk management works. The issue was identified. The risk was assessed. The appropriate control measures were put in place. That's exactly how asbestos should be handled—whether it's found inside a wind turbine, a garage roof or behind an old ceiling.

If you're planning refurbishment work or you're unsure whether your property may contain asbestos, obtaining professional advice before work begins can help prevent unnecessary risks, delays and unexpected costs.

Need Independent Asbestos Advice?

Whether you're buying a property, planning renovations or simply want peace of mind, ACMS provides independent asbestos surveys tailored to your needs.

Our services include: