If you have been asked to clear a plot of land and are unlucky to cross asbestos then Defra has information on how to deal with the material.
Although aimed at farmers dealing with farm buildings, the advice may prove useful if you are clearing around garages and other structures.
Defra - White asbestos: how farmers should handle and dispose of it
There are several different types of asbestos, including blue, brown and white.
White asbestos, also known as chrysotile, is the most common form - in the past it was often mixed with cement to make building materials.
Pure white asbestos is less dangerous than blue or brown, but if you disturb it, it can release fibres which may damage the lungs if inhaled.
How to recognise white asbestos
In most circumstances, white asbestos is hardened and fibrous. It’s usually light grey or off-white in colour.
If you’re working on insulation boards, roof sheeting or older vehicles, and see flaking or powdering where unpainted surfaces are worn, cracked or damaged, this could be white asbestos.
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