Can New cladding be fitted over asbestos without removing the asbestos?

No, new cladding should never be fitted over existing asbestos cement cladding without removing the asbestos first. Installing new cladding directly over asbestos is highly dangerous and can pose serious health risks. Here are the main reasons why fitting new cladding over asbestos without removal is not recommended:

1. Friable Asbestos: Asbestos cement cladding contains friable asbestos fibers, which means they are easily broken down and can become airborne with any disturbance. Nailing, drilling, or removing the old asbestos cladding during the installation of new cladding can release these hazardous fibers into the air.

2. Health Risks: Inhaling asbestos fibers can lead to several severe and potentially fatal health problems, including asbestosis (a lung disease), lung cancer, and mesothelioma (a cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart). The risk of exposure increases significantly if asbestos is disturbed or damaged during cladding installation.

3. Regulation Violations: Installing new cladding over asbestos without removal is a violation of health and safety regulations in most countries. It is illegal and can result in legal consequences, including fines, penalties, and potential liability for any health issues resulting from exposure to asbestos.

4. Structural Issues: Attaching new cladding to asbestos cement panels can compromise the structural integrity of the building's exterior. Over time, the weight of the new cladding and the stress it puts on the existing asbestos can lead to cracking, breaking, and potential structural failure.

5. Difficult Maintenance: Future maintenance and repairs to the cladding become extremely complicated and hazardous if asbestos lies underneath. Asbestos must be handled and removed according to strict regulations, making any maintenance work complex and expensive.

6. Risk to Workers and Occupants: Workers involved in the installation of new cladding over asbestos without proper safety measures face a high risk of exposure. Additionally, the occupants of the building could potentially be exposed to asbestos fibers released during the installation process.

To ensure the safety of workers and occupants, it is crucial to follow proper procedures for asbestos removal and disposal. If asbestos cement cladding is present on a building, a licensed and qualified team should safely remove it before installing new cladding. This approach ensures compliance with regulations, provides long-term safety and eliminates potential health risks associated with asbestos exposure.