Recent statistics released by Asbestos Sampling reveal the UK regions most afflicted by asbestos. The data, derived from 5,338 samples analysed throughout 2023 using the company’s own testing kits, shows that homes in the East of England has the highest incidence of asbestos in residential properties.
Specifically, 38% of the analysed samples from the East of England contained asbestos, surpassing the national average of 30%. Following closely were the South East and South West, each with 36%, and Wales at 34%.
Conversely, Northern Ireland displayed the lowest incidence, with only 13% of samples testing positive for asbestos. The East Midlands also showed lower rates, with 21% positive tests.
The analysed samples, taken from various materials such as Artex, cement pipes, cement roofing, and floor tiles, highlighted that cement roofing samples were the most contaminated, with a 64% positive test rate. Cement pipes and floor tiles had 57% and 43% respectively. In contrast, only 2% of insulation samples contained asbestos, marking it as the least likely to be contaminated.
Stephen Roche, Co-founder of Asbestos Sampling, stated:
“Our analysis of materials tested for asbestos during 2023 shows significant regional variations, with the East of England emerging as the region most likely to have asbestos present. That said, asbestos remains a concern for the health of individuals up and down the UK, serving as a stark reminder of the need to be vigilant for its presence. We would encourage anyone due to undertake work on a property which could contain asbestos to get an asbestos survey carried out before that work commences.”
Tom Yates, Co-founder, added:
“We are unsure of the reason behind the regional variations. The data being presented in our findings is restricted to samples submitted to us and may not be an accurate representation of the whole industry. As such, assumptions should never be made with materials which could contain asbestos, regardless of which region they are found – Always have suspect materials tested before working on them”
For more information, visit the full report at https://www.asbestos-sampling.com/blogs/articles/asbestos-testing-insights-2023.
